First things first, converting a manual screwdriving solution into an automated screwdriving operation isn’t as easy as you may think. When you have operators manually driving screws into assemblies, you may not realize exactly what error detection and fault correction abilities they are bringing to the process. Relinquishing these operators from the process to establish a quality automated alternative isn’t as simple as slapping a robot with a screwdriver end-of-arm tool into the workcell.
If you didn’t consider automation from the get-go, you’ll have to start the conversion project with a review of every element used in the assembly process. If you have a big plastic assembly like dashboard parts, operators would likely manipulate the parts manually to fit properly before completing the driving operation. Once there is no operator involved, these peripheral actions will have to form part of the automated screwdriving process. Therefore, understanding the true scope of the operation will extend beyond just the action of feeding, positioning, and driving the screw into the part.
Before you start designing the automated screwdriving workcell, you need to take a step back and consider:
If you know what these constraints and product liability issues are, we can start designing a system using our modular screwdriving solutions and process controllers.
From our perspective, the sooner you engage with our experts the smoother the conversion to automated screwdriving will be.
We can advise you on:
With labor shortages hampering manufacturers, the journey from manual to automated screwdriving operations will become an inevitable reality for many companies. Ensuring you get it right the first time requires input from the experts before you scope the project and allocate a budget or worse, start ordering equipment and systems. WEBER can assist you to avoid the pitfalls from the beginning and ensure you understand the actual scope required and can succeed in bringing screwdriving automation to your challenging assemblies.
For more information about how we can help you convert a manual screwdriving operation to an automated screwdriving workcell, reach out to WEBER today.