Catalytic Converter Test Cell

Application
The 42-lb., 4' x 3' SUV catalytic converters in this application must be transferred from a turntable to a gage for testing, and then from the gage to a shipping rack.

Click on the image above to view the Visteon and Cobotics' case study entitled "Cobotics IAD Improves productivity by 100% and improves ergonomics".

Business
Visteon (Automotive Supplier - Chassis Division)

The Challenge
A traditional air balancer was complicated to operate, causing the operation to become a bottleneck in the plant. It had a large end effector that was difficult to control, with a steep learning curve. Manual lifting required two operators and caused ergonomic concerns as they were required to lift 67,500 lbs. per shift. Visteon sought an ergonomic, easy-to-use system that would allow one operator to work in the test cell without sacrificing speed.

The Solution
The Cobotics iLift IAD on a passive Knight Industries aluminum rail system solved Visteon's concerns, enabling one operator to lift parts with very little force and easy-to-learn, intuitive operation. It allows smooth, fast, precise movements that have minimized cycle times, and it works with a compact end effector.

Benefits

• Significantly improved ergonomics
• Reduced labor by 50%
• Precise, smooth, rapid movements provide enhanced quality and productivity
• Favorable production speeds maintained
• Simple operation
• Fast cycle times
• Operator acceptance