What is automated assembly line?
An automated assembly line is a specific type of manufacturing process which uses machinery to control the movement and processing of materials. Fully automated assembly lines are capable of producing large quantities of goods with little or no input from human operators. Each step in the process is controlled by PLC or computers, robots, or other machines...
The machines are PLC controlled or computer-controlled, highly efficient, and capable of working with extreme precision on small components. There are many steps involved in the process of building components on these lines. For example, something as complex as an automobile has many, many detailed machines and human operators.
When Did The First Automated Assembly Line Start?
The first automated assembly line was introduced by Henry Ford in Highland Park, Michigan on December 1, 1913. It produced the world's first moving automobile chassis - creating one every 25 seconds - faster than any other assembly line anywhere in the world at that time.
What Are Some of The Components Of the Assembly Line?
The information below provides an example of how a typical fully-automated automotive assembly plant operates:
The main components of an Automated Assembly Line are:
Primary Automation - The system through which control of the process is established.
Secondary Automation - Controls the movement of material between workstations, conveyors or other machines that receive, process then deliver or store components.
The first step involves making sure all the proper parts, materials, and tools are available so that the robot can begin assembling. This is often referred to as fixturing or putting into place.
A programmable logic controller (PLC) tells the automated machines what to be done next, For example, to pick up a part from a storage area and move it to the assembly line. The PLC is also responsible for measuring how much of each material or component is needed and making sure that there will be enough at every step in the process.
Parts are carried on automated carts which can be programmed to make their own decisions on what components to add next. For example, the part stops in front of a machine called an auto-feeder which feeds exactly the amount requested by the programmable logic controller.
What Roles Do People Play In the Automated Assembly?
As a result of ever changing technology, more and more assembly lines are being automated. In order for an assembly line to be completely automated it requires the use of robots that perform tasks that would otherwise be done by people. If you were to see one in operation you may notice some things.
The first thing you might notice is a group of workers standing close together. These workers will typically monitor and ensure proper operations of the fully automated assembly line. They make sure the robot equipment is working properly and fix any malfunctions.
You may also see a conveyor belt moving items from station to station within the factory floor. This conveyor belt has no person directing its movements; instead, there is machine guidance and collision detection.
Human workers are only required during final assembly and packaging stages. Before those steps begin, robots perform all functions related to welding, painting and parts assembly as well as automated sorting and storage systems for parts storage.
Benefits of Automated Assembly Lines?
One of the main benefits is that they require less time to set up. Another benefit is that there are fewer errors made when working on an automated assembly line. Lastly, since many products have different sizes and shapes, humans would have more difficulty trying to figure out where each piece goes if it was an irregular shape or size.
If your company has many assembly lines in your production, you’ll find that the automated ones are more cost effective. Neucham Intelligence can help with automation to reduce time and effort in your production lines. Call us today to discuss options!