New test machine achieves greater efficiencies for German components company

Citation

(2000), "New test machine achieves greater efficiencies for German components company", Assembly Automation, Vol. 20 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/aa.2000.03320baf.003

New test machine achieves greater efficiencies for German components company

New test machine achieves greater efficiencies for German components company

Keywords: ATE, Components, Automation

Modular Automation has recently developed a new test machine for German automotive component manufacturer, Brose. The system can be operated entirely by one person (see Plate 4).

Brose makes door modules, window regulators and seating components for the automotive industry. As part of its quality control procedures the company checks every latch to ensure that the mechanism operates correctly and with the required force.

Plate 4This Modular Automation machine tests seat release mechanisms for German automotive manufacturer, Brose. The test machine can be operated entirely by one person

In a further operation, the system checks the movement by pulling down on the cable. Again, checks are made to ensure that the correct force has been applied and that the latch did release properly.

The machine caters for both left and right-hand assemblies. The operator can also adjust it quickly and easily to check any of the six current variant lengths of cable.

Rejected assemblies are unloaded automatically. Good assemblies are engraved with a part number and the date of manufacture and then unloaded by the operator.

This machine replaces a previous system, which checked the mechanisms horizontally and, therefore, required two operators. It operates on an eight-second cycle time, which allows the company to achieve its required production schedules.

For further information please contact: William Bourn, Modular Automation Ltd, Talbot Way, Small Heath Business Park, Birmingham B10 0HS, UK. Tel: +44 (0) 121 766 7979; Fax: +44 (0) 121 766 6385.