CASE | Vehicle Engineering
Robotic Simulations for Electric Vehicle Chassis
The client was looking for a partner with experience with In-Process planning, Robot Process simulation and Off-Line Programs for all BIW segments for major automotive OEMs.
THE CHALLENGE
- Handling multiple BIW production lines, each with diverse process standards, for different OEM vehicle programs and mixed metal body structures
- Consolidating the BIW platform utilizing flexible manufacturing and modular body design
- Reusing assets of existing facility for new product introduction (NPI) while providing harmonization
- Creating a visible and transparent production system while balancing volume flexibility and rigidity
- Debugging shop floor to develop standard operating procedures (SOP) and product sustainability
- Project scope varying from green field (setting up new production lines) to brown field (integrating new models on existing production lines)
- Meeting the client’s expectations considering they had never outsourced a program to this degree.
THE COMPANY
One of the world’s leading suppliers of intelligent, robot-based automation solutions for international customers including leading automotive OEMs and general industry manufacturers.
THE SOLUTION
- Conducting a manufacturing assessment, including process planning and detail process engineering, and adopting a logical approach
- Developing a flexible assembly line, including complex tools and manual and robotic parts, to accommodate multiple high-end models
- Designing BIW robotic assembly line including various joining processes (i.e., spot welding, selfpiercing rivets, gluing, clinching, hemming, etc.)
- Focusing on resource utilization, and using cutting-edge simulation tools, to validate all processes
- Utilizing experience and expertise, and incorporating OEM standards, while determining whether to handle as a green field or brown field project
- Owning all technical aspects from process planning to product launch while meeting OEM constraints
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Optimized process solutions led to cost savings
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Reduced installation and commissioning time, decreased time to market
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Process optimization and quality management
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Flexibility, standardization, and reutilization of production setup
