Arenaprojekt PTC May 2016 AH-Automation

Purpose and goal

During machining inserts are changed periodically due to wear. It is costly and time consuming if it should be done manually. The vision is to combine the manual handling with collaborative robots. The purpose was to examine the conditions for such an approach. The goal was to develop a conceptual solution with collaborative robot. The feasibility study was performed with the aid of students from Högskolan Väst who developed a conceptual proposal. The project goal is thereby fulfilled.

Expected results and effects

The results show the difficulties with security aspects and needs of interlogistic solutions between various operations in terms of, for example, the management of different types of inserts and tool holders. One conclusion is that alternative solutions, using standard robots and end-to-end solutions that make it easier for the operator. Here the operator makes adjustments to the robot tracks by parameter control of traditional robots via a graphical interface at the workplace. The project has led to an SME Flyg level 2 proposal which was approved by Vinnova in the spring 2017.

Planned approach and implementation

The work was carried out in the form of discussions and meetings with AH-Automation, GKN, Swerea IVF, PTC, and students from Högskolan Väst. A literature review regarding the interaction between humans and collaborative robots was conducted by Swerea IVF. A survey of possible collaborative robots for replacement of inserts, as well as the development of a conceptual solution was implemented in the form of a student´s work at Högskolan Väst.