The aim of the new process to be planned was to increase output and increase efficiency in the production of medical technology components.
In order to meet the requirement for optimized production, various options were developed and new automated processes were introduced. Result of the planning and evaluation: in this project, a combination of an autonomous mobile platform (FTF) and a cobot (MRK) is to be used as a transfer system and for loading and unloading the milling stations.
Process planning and design
Development and evaluation of automation concepts
Planning layout to scale in 3D
Technical detailing of automation
Determination and comparison of possible system suppliers
The intensive joint work on the design of the processes and the range of technical implementation variants enabled the customer to "rethink" its production and objectively find an individual, optimized solution for its own production.
The technical concept for automation relies on the connection of AGVs with articulated-arm robots and thus also allows collaborative work. The advantages are flexibility and expandability as well as use in an existing infrastructure.
Manual operation as before remains possible.
Our customer plans to significantly increase the production of different implants by purchasing additional milling machines. Automation of these systems is planned for effective use of resources.
One particular challenge of production is that each product is an individual part and is therefore subject to its own production process. The production time varies between a few minutes and several hours. This is why the customer is demanding a modular and flexible system.
One particular challenge of production is that each product is an individual part and is therefore subject to its own production process. The production time varies between a few minutes and several hours. This is why the customer is demanding a modular and flexible system.
In order to meet the company's delivery promise, high system availability and low downtime are required. The technical concept developed allows automation and employees to work in parallel. This means that production peaks can be absorbed by the use of personnel and maintenance work or disruptions can be bridged.
The production system consists of milling centers and modular stations, which are networked and flexibly linked to one another depending on the product variant, utilization and desired output.
The current concept solution is validated in a proof of concept using a test setup and a material flow simulation.
Modular system structure
Use of a mobile autonomous platform in combination with cobot
Increase in the level of automation
Increase in machine self-sufficiency time by 75%
Increase in Manufacturing capacities
Reduced employee retention
Development of the company's expertise in the area of automation
Pilot project for other locations
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