And Their Impact on the Assembly Line John D. Hall
Familiarize reader with robotics Show how KUKA company has affected assembly line Explain assembly line setup of GM
German based company Specializes in robotics and automation systems Founded in 1893 Famous for 6-axis robots
Products Arc Welders
Products Palletizers
Products Loaders and Handlers
How they work Different axis are driven electro mechanically PC controller used to program
Advantages Ability to change the interface of the robots using the PC controllers Automation is faster and more efficient than human workers No more “robot junkyards”
Founded in 1903 Leading Manufacturer of vehicles in the world Top 5 companies in the world
Flow Chart Body ShopPaint Shop Trim Chassis Finishing
Body Shop Raw materials and pre-assembled parts enter assembly line Over 400 KUKA robots load and weld body frame Sent to next station
Paint Shop Robots used to lift and “dip” body into a bath Robots clean, primer, and paint body panels Workers check for quality Sent to next station
Trim Workers install decals and interior Robots used to move body Also used to load, glue and set windshield Sent to Finishing
Chassis Assembled during other processes Frame welded by arc welding KUKA bots Drivetrain installed
Finishing Body and chassis mated Body panels, bumpers and tires installed Engine Computer and steering column installed Sent to testing
Final Product Automation allows for faster more efficient products Robot welds stronger and higher quality Automation helps to create value for company
Observation/Comments Testing? Small Business
Fun Facts Robocoaster KUKA robots used in movies Die Another Day, Tomb Raider 2, Thunderbirds, The Da Vinci Code