Citation
(2011), "Ubisense launches assembly control system for automotive manufacturers", Assembly Automation, Vol. 31 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/aa.2011.03331daa.005
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2011, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Ubisense launches assembly control system for automotive manufacturers
Article Type: News From: Assembly Automation, Volume 31, Issue 4
Ubisense, a location solutions company, today launched the Ubisense assembly control system (ACS), enabling automotive manufacturers to reliably identify and precisely track the location of each vehicle and associated parts and tools throughout the assembly line process.
Ubisense ACS enables process automation and control that improves manufacturing quality, enhances productivity and lowers the cost of production for automotive manufacturers.
In an ACS deployment, a Ubisense tag is attached to each vehicle on the assembly line. The tag enables the tracking system to precisely locate each vehicle’s position. Similar tags are also attached to parts and tools used in the production process. The software can then map the parts and tools required for the production of each vehicle based on custom specifications that are defined by the vehicle identification number. With this level of visibility into the assembly process, the software can automate tool enabling and disabling, and allows production managers to generate comprehensive reports for previously difficult to measure areas of the production process.
By replacing the need for fixed barcode scanners and proximity switches, the Ubisense ACS makes the automotive assembly process more flexible, efficient and reliable while improving quality and traceability. This results in significantly reduced errors in the assembly process, which saves manufacturers money and improves end-user satisfaction. Additionally, with the Ubisense ACS, work cells, either in a fixed location or moving along with a vehicle, are defined in software so rebalancing the line can now be done without expensive infrastructure changes and hardware movement. Wireless tools can also be incorporated into the production process, eliminating tool cables and improving safety conditions while maintaining error proofing and traceability of critical fastening operations.
The Ubisense ACS is based on ultra-wideband, real-time location system technology, and interfaces with a manufacturing execution system. This technology is specifically designed to not interfere with existing wireless networks. Ubisense sensors ensure high accuracy in highly metallic, cluttered surroundings and operate in locations where reflections defeat other radio-positioning systems. Additionally, any brand of wireless tool that can accept Open Protocol communications can be controlled with the Ubisense ACS.