Linear technology for flexible assembly lines
1 / 16Pages

Linear technology for flexible assembly lines

Ewellix is a global innovator and manufacturer of linear motion and actuation solutions used in assembly automation, medical applications and mobile machinery. Formerly part of SKF Group, the Ewellix Group consists of 16 sales units and eight factories. External net sales are approximately 2.3 SEK billion and we employ around 1200 people. Ewellix is headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden and is owned by Triton. Technology leadership Global presence and local support Our journey began over 50 years ago as part of the SKF Group, a leading global technology provider, with the world’s first...

Increase flexibility in automotive production lines with modular design In a fast-changing industry with new car technologies, electrification and embedded advanced software, automotive production lines must be highly flexible and adaptable to remain competitive and cost-effective. Automakers and assembly solutions suppliers have traditionally evolved cautiously, through evolutionary steps. The enormous investment associated with vehicle manufacturing has always made prudence a basis for new models and plant planning. Until last decade, the established model for mass-production, with...

Enhanced productivity, increased flexibility Technological advancements, emerging competitors, global sourcing, and industrial restructuring are significant challenges for the automotive industry. The main challenge is agility with greater capacity to rapidly switch production volumes and product mix while remaining cost-competitive. To succeed, synergies and long-term technical partnerships are essential. Every process will become fully automated in the future, and the key is a good R&D partnership to support systems with the market’s needs.

Return Of Investment with flexible production lines Many variables can impact the return on investment from robotics and automation, however, flexibility in production is essential. How can different components be produced on the same system? How can production be stepped up at short notice? For example, how can changing one model to another be executed quickly on the same system? What is necessary are smart production and logistics systems that combine modularity and intelligent automation to allow maximum flexibility. The main goal is to quickly adapt production to evolving requirements...

Body-in-white grippers (end effectors) To cover a broader market and grow sales, manufacturers need to design significantly more new models as demand increases. Furthermore, factories must produce these new models on cost-effective assembly lines that can switch quickly from one model to another seamlessly. Ewellix solutions Features • Compact design At Ewellix, we offer robust linear modules for flexible gripper (end effector) systems suitable for robots with a heavy load capacity, durability and continual use. • High load capacity A gripper is a device that enables the holding of an...

Car transfer unit Handling different car chassis, Body in White (BIW) on the same line requires a flexible system that allows quick resetting with precise positioning. Transfer units can be quickly and efficiently reconfigured to transport different car models on a single assembly line. In addition, in comparison with conventional assembly equipment and tooling, using a Car Transfer Unit (CTU) reduces the amount of re-programming and commissioning needed to move between the production of different models. Optional linear module for the vertical axis provides high speed from precision ball...

Jig (Geo-set) A Jig or fixture is a device that holds, supports or places a piece to be machined or welded. It is a manufacturing tool designed to locate and hold the workpiece and guide the tool as the operation is performed. Ewellix can provide robust linear modules for flexible Jig (Geo set) systems with heavy load capacity, repeatability and longer working life. As for the gripper application, Jig or fixture helps support the automotive industry looking for flexible assembly cells to minimise resetting time and efficiently adapt production from one model to another. Ewellix solutions...

Final inspection processes Ewellix provides practical solutions to complete vertical and horizontal adjustments smartly. In addition, we offer a wide range of ‘ready to mount’ additional linear axis solutions. They are designed for different applications, giving your robot an extended operating range to perform manufacturing processes like finishing and parts inspection. Whenever you need a repetitive operation usually done manually that are time consuming and with low added value for the operators, such as the end of line quality inspection, our LIFTKIT and SLIDEKIT can guarantee precision...

Ewellix’s core technologies for assembly automation Reduced downtime for greater productivity Greater flexibility and higher performance in production operations are essential to automotive manufacturers. However, the challenge to achieve this is frequently linked to production facilities, and many were built to support a market-driven high-volume production of a select number of top models. Nowadays, the request for increased functionality and versatility of body welding and assembly processes is applicable. This has led to innovative manufacturing solutions that can be easily integrated...

CLSM linear modules Ewellix linear modules are specially designed for automation and automotive applications to follow industry needs in robust, adaptable and flexible systems. They are equipped with a pair of profile rail guides, each with two carriages designed for maximum rigidity and stability. In CLSM linear modules, a wide selection of ball or lead screw, linear motor and belt drive options are available to ensure a high level of speed, and positioning accuracy to perfectly meet automotive requirements. Duty cycle and speed Duty cycle Design features • Compact design with lead or ball...