MARK III, a Hybrid Flexible Automatic Assembly System for Small Batches

摘要

MARK III is a new flexible assembly system that can combine automatic and manual assembly. The system is a development of - and a complement to - its predecessor MARK II using the same principle of sub-batch assembly. By travelling on rails, the robot work envelope can be enhanced by prolonging the rail track, leading to a multitude of peripheral equipment being within range, e.g. machining units, manual assembly stations, other assembly systems etc. With manual assembly stations, the stepwise automatization of manual operations is supported. Likewise, MARK III offers excellent opportunities for gradual capacity increase. More robots can be installed onto the same track. The feeding equipments can be of a great variety. For example, cheap flat boards enables the automatic assembly of different products with an annual volume normally too low to justify automation. This assures an altogether good degree of utilization of the system.