Trimming a fiberglass challenge to save money, production time and improve quality

Abstract

Purpose

To relate how even a smaller manufacturing operation can benefit from the application of robotic methods to manual operations.

Design/methodology/approach

A maker of fibreglass automobile body kits called in a robotic systems integrator with 20 years of experience to automate his manual panel trimming operation. In about three months, the system integrator delivered a complete system to meet all application requirements.

Findings

The auto body kit maker achieved a 95 percent reduction in trimming time and improved his quality as well.

Research limitations/implications

While this manufacturer achieved dramatic benefits, not all trimming operations might achieve such results.

Practical implications

Key to a successful robot application can depend heavily on the skills and prior experience of the system integrator selected to address the application.

Originality/value

May provide incentive to other smaller fiberglass panel manufacturers to examine potential applications where robotic trimming systems could provide excellent pay back on the investment.

Citation

Bloss, R. (2006), "Trimming a fiberglass challenge to save money, production time and improve quality", Industrial Robot, Vol. 33 No. 2, pp. 122-124. https://doi.org/10.1108/01439910610651437