“ So , automation suppliers and integrators need a ‘ tool box ’ full of solutions including the ability to design and build from scratch in order to fit together all the pieces of the puzzle .”
In the case of RDS , the company typically uses standardized off-the-shelf solutions and integrates it with other systems , but can design and manufacture equipment and sub-systems from scratch , as needed . This includes equipment such as automated assembly solutions , inspection systems , packaging equipment , labeling / marking systems and palletizing automation , as well as filling systems and machine tending automation .
As an example , after trouble with an initial vendor , this approach helped Monsanto Dairy Group stay on schedule with the construction and start-up of a veterinary pharmaceutical facility in Augusta , Georgia , according to Chris R . Redford , P . E ., Principal Pharmaceutical Engineer , Monsanto AG Engineering , St . Louis , MO .
“ The custom handling system [ originally ] purchased by the construction was found unacceptable after a full year of design and fabrication effort . This put us in a very difficult position . We either had to accept a poor-quality piece of equipment – and modify it to meet our requirements , or accept a lengthy schedule delay ,” stated Redford .
In response , Redford turned to RDS , and credits its effort in getting the facility rollout back on track .
According to Redford , in working with RDS , “ We were able to design a new handling system from scratch in just a few weeks . [ Rapid Development Services ] designed the new system in modular sections that could be brought into the facility through standard door openings . This allowed us to continue facility construction with no delay .”
Despite the complexities of manufacturing automation , due to market requirements even very technical systems often have to be developed and put into production under compressed time schedules .
Such was the case when wireless communications manufacturer Triton Network Systems created a high-volume manufacturing line for the assembly of high frequency , RF modules used in the
broadband wireless industry , according to Joseph Kreuzpaintner , Principal Engineer at Orlando , Florida-based Triton Network Systems .
Kreuzpaintner stated that the manufacturing requirements involved precision alignment and mounting of odd shaped components , dispensing of epoxy , electrical testing of product on laser equipment , in-line processing of modules at a heated test station , installation of cables , and mechanical assembly of a circuit card to a housing . He notes that after conducting a survey of integration companies meeting Triton ’ s manufacturing work cell requirements , RDS was selected as the primary equipment integrator for the Module Factory at Triton , which helped to expedite project completion .
“ Rapid Development Services ’ technical expertise in handling products , test socket and integration methods , precision in machining , robotic , PLC and actuator integration , and customer support allowed Triton Network Systems to complete the integration of five work cells within 9 months . Their participation in the project has provided … solutions that were identified by other integrators as “ not possible ” or “ need 12 months to develop ,” stated Kreuzpaintner .
When automated manufacturing systems are developed , the equipment must also be robust enough and the integration reliable enough to operate with near flawless capability and minimal supervision for the long haul .
In this regard , a distinct advantage can be gained when working with an integrator that can couple the knowledge of custom machine building with standardized robotics , as well as develop specific control and communication support between production machinery and operator or inventory management systems .
Pohlman , Inc , a Chesterfield , MO-based manufacturer of screw machine products benefitted from such an approach , according to Hank Studt , Pohlman President .
“ RDS has provided 3 different automatic robotic pick and place machines that have been in use at Pohlman , Inc for over 10 years . The machinery has operated without any service needed by them . This technology helped us to get our products into mass production with a competitive advantage ,” stated Studt .
He concludes , “ The flexibility of 6-axis robotic technology … allows us to produce an array of products on the same equipment while maintaining a highquality product . We have relied on this equipment … to continue serving our customers .”
For more information , call ( 866 ) 900-1033 ; visit https :// rapidds . com ; email info @ rapidds . com ; or write to Rapid Development Services at 4329 Green Ash Drive , Earth City , MO 63045 .
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