Automation

In automated systems, workpiece carriers are often viewed simply as a means of transport. They move the component from one station to the next and ensure that the material flow runs smoothly. In practice, however, they have a significantly greater impact on process reliability than it might seem at first glance. A workpiece carrier does … Weiterlesen …

In automation, attention is often focused first on the main process. Machining, assembly, inspection, and joining are central to the technical design. In practice, however, it often turns out that the biggest challenge is not the process itself, but rather the component’s path through the system. Component handling involves much more than simply transporting a … Weiterlesen …

In the field of automation, there is a lot of talk about sensors, networking, and artificial intelligence. In practice, however, it is becoming increasingly clear that it is not the lack of technology that poses the real limitation, but rather the quality of the available data. After all, data alone doesn’t improve a process. Only … Weiterlesen …

In manufacturing and automation, standardization is considered the key to comparability, scalability, and stable processes. If systems are technically identical in design, it stands to reason that they will also behave identically during operation. In practice, however, the reality is often quite different. Two systems of identical design can operate noticeably differently under real-world conditions. … Weiterlesen …

In automation, pneumatic grippers and vacuum cups are considered compact, fast, and proven solutions for handling components. That is precisely why they are often taken for granted. An individual consumer seems small, and their air demand is manageable. However, within the overall system, this can become a significant factor affecting energy consumption and cost-effectiveness. A … Weiterlesen …

In manufacturing, cleanliness is often viewed as a secondary concern. As long as the machines are running and the components are within tolerance, the process appears to be stable. In practice, however, even the tiniest impurities are enough to gradually undermine this very stability. Particles, residues from processing media, dust, or extremely fine deposits often … Weiterlesen …

In automated systems, the focus is often on the main processes. Robot movements, processing times, axis dynamics, and cycle times are the focus of this analysis. What is striking, however, is that many disruptions do not arise where the actual value creation takes place, but rather at the interfaces between them. Transfer points are the … Weiterlesen …