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Modular bodyshop systems automate automotive manufacturing.
Shops know that to stay lean and mean, they must simplify and standardize their operations. But how to best achieve this? ABB Inc.'s Robotic, Automotive and Manufacturing Group, Auburn Hills, Mich., believes robotic automation is the answer. Practicing what it preaches, the company devises automated robotic systems comprising software and machines that boost the efficiency and productivity of even the most difficult processes, such as those used to manufacture cars.
A recent example is the company's proprietary automotive-bodyshop software, which stores and transfers huge amounts of vehicle-manufacturing data and information. Another example is the company's body-in-white system, part of its modular bodyshop made up of several automated cells, including AB B's new robotic hemming cell. These cells, called Plug and Produce modules, extensively use robots and constitute mini assembly zones. The cells hook together to create a complete bodyshop.
Simon Mathieu, director of market development for body-in-white systems, says the company implemented robotic systems because of the need for flexibility and the lack of floorspace facing most automakers. "Companies want to get more efficient," says Mathieu. "During the last five years, carmakers took about three years to develop a vehicle. The modular bodyshop now lets them do this in about one-and-a-half to two years."
Optimizing communication
Mathieu explains, "Our in-house data-management system automates and optimizes communication, both between us and external customers and among internal process, design, and project engineers." To do this, the system includes spreadsheets containing customer part, spotweld, and GD&T data - and it integrates with visualization software.
The software databases hold part data such as vehicle type, part number, part...