applied adhesive over a length of more
than five meters. The robot then signals
that the roof is ready for installation. The
employee takes the roof with the aid of a
handling device and installs it in the car.
The CFRP roof is optional equipment in the
new Audi RS 5 Coupe and is significantly
larger than comparable roof systems.
A person would therefore not be able
to apply the adhesive as reliably and
accurately as KLARA.
Unlike conventional robots, KLARA does
not require a protective fence, which
means that the working spaces of human
and machine blend into one. This saves
considerable space at the assembly line
and allows HRC to be integrated into
the production line. With human-robot
cooperation like this, employee safety
has top priority at Audi. The employee
is in control, initiates the application of
adhesive and can halt the process at any
time. Sensors in the
robot arm recognize when a human is
touched and automatically stop any
movement in the case of danger. KLARA
also indicates any danger with the
illuminated ring: It lights up red if
there is any disturbance.
All equipment components
were preassembled on a base
plate. This allowed KLARA
to be installed and put into
operation within a short time. Integration
took place without any interference in
the existing assembly line. An alternative
solution for applying adhesive to the new
roofs would only have been possible with
far greater effort and
expense.
The Audi Group, with its brands Audi,
Ducati and Lamborghini, is one of
the most successful manufacturers
of automobiles and motorcycles in
the premium segment.
www.audi-mediacenter.com