Evaluation of flexible automation for small batch production
Paper in proceeding, 2018

Traditionally it has been difficult to use automation in small batch production with high variation in volumes and high mix of products. However, this is changing as there exist new types of flexible automation. The purpose of this paper is to understand the requirements on enterprises to use automation in small batch production, and evaluate flexible automation technologies suitable for small batch production. The study is based on literature reviews and interviews. Identified requirements are for example to change between manual access and automation, and easy programming. The results show that a flexible mobile robot automation may fulfill a majority of the identified requirements.

mobile automation

Small batch production

Author

Malin E S Löfving

Chalmers, Technology Management and Economics, Supply and Operations Management

Peter Almström

Chalmers, Technology Management and Economics, Supply and Operations Management

Caroline Jarebrant

Swerea

Boel Wadman

Swerea

Magnus Widfeldt

Swerea

Procedia Manufacturing

2351-9789 (eISSN)

Vol. 25 177-184

8th Swedish Production Symposium, SPS 2018,
Stockholm, Sweden,

SWEDPROD Produce in Sweden

VINNOVA (2016-04483), 2016-12-01 -- 2018-11-30.

Subject Categories

Production Engineering, Human Work Science and Ergonomics

Robotics

Areas of Advance

Production

DOI

10.1016/j.promfg.2018.06.072

More information

Latest update

10/21/2022