Conveyors play an important role in automated assembly machinery. Of all the most popular material handling applications, conveyors are amongst the most used. Some of the most common assembly applications include palletizing, dispensing, pick-and-place, and assembling. To meet the needs of different manufacturers, these systems come in different designs. Below, we want to take some time to go over the most used conveyor systems.
Conveyors are arguably the most used system because they are great for heavy loads that do not require high levels of precision (i.e., moving boxes).
Belt conveyors are used for pick-and-place movements that need highly precise locations. They are commonly used with rotary assembly machines.
Packaging stations utilize product-handling conveyors, which create processing and packaging lines. Pick-and-place robots grab items from either a moving or standing conveyor and then place them on or into packaging containers.
Assembly lines use pick-and-place robots that are specially equipped with end-effectors that grab incoming parts from feeding conveyors. Components that grab are attached to another assembly piece at the next assembly area.
Inspection systems test and evaluate products to ensure the size, weight, and shape of parts that are made exactly to spec. It is possible to automate various in-line inspection processes. When you quip a vision system, it will detect anomalies and then remove defective parts.
Automated Assembly Machinery
Palletizers can be robotic or conveyors, and they are used to automate the palletizing process in a distribution center, warehouse, or manufacturing facility. Manufacturers use multi-axis and gripper robots that get products off the line and onto a pallet. This system helps to reduce the total amount of employees that must do the heavy lifting to move cases and crates.
Related Reading
- Common Applications for Conveyors in Automated Assembly Machinery It is common to find conveyors used in material handling applications and automated assembly. Conveyors get included in production facilities for dispensing, pick-and-place, palletizing, and assembling applications.
- Important Tips for Building a Complete Robot Cell
- Maintaining Automated Assembly Systems