trends in automation

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Using this combination of Festo
automation technology means that each
cell can be picked, rotated, aligned and
placed in the modules within 1.2
seconds.
Steve Sands of Festo says: “This project
is very significant for us because it is the
first time our EXCH H-Handler has been
applied in the UK. However, the
automation technology now incorporated
in this pilot line for electric vehicle
batteries was originally developed for
the construction of solar panels; so it has
already proven its ability to handle
delicate components and place them
with great precision at speeds
compatible with commercial production.
This technology also has great potential
to bring the benefits of automation to
other industrial processes, such as high
speed assembly, materials handling and
palletising.”
Charging ahead
In addition to the pick and place system,
the pilot line includes a Bosch Rexroth
conveyor system and a Siemens control
system, as specified by WMG. Festo
servo motors are also used to provide
vertical movement, and the
transportation system for the battery
input trays relies on Festo actuators.
Commenting on the successful
commissioning of the new automotive
battery pack pilot line, Professor Robert
Harrison of WMG says:
“The UK government recognises that it is
WMG
Area of business:
One of the world’s leading research
and education groups, designing
solutions and overcoming
challenges through collaborative
R&D and world class education.
critical for the UK to embrace the
opportunity created by the shift to
electric vehicles. This is a proof-of-
process pilot-line that, via the high-
speed cell picker and other stations, will
allow us to demonstrate our ability to
automate the cell-to-module packaging
process and to help pave the way to
upscale to a full production plant in the
Midlands region.”
“AMPLiFII will develop the new
knowledge, skills, technology and
facilities to support UK industry as it
seeks to use new technologies and
processes in vehicle battery systems.
The project will help develop the next
generation of traction batteries for
electric and hybrid vehicles. It will
combine the best human and automated
assembly methods to manufacture
battery packs and lay the foundations of
a new UK automotive supply chain based
around automated technology.”
“The project will help to develop the
next generation of traction batteries
for electric and hybrid vehicles.”
Professor Robert Harrison, Professor of Automation Systems at WMG
Horizon Instruments
Area of business:
Design and build of integrated
automated solutions.
Issue 32 trends in automation
Synergies 12 – 13