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.