Rohwedder Automated Systems, Inc., located in Markham, Ontario, is a supplier of high-performance assembly systems and includes among its key customers world-class automotive parts suppliers and pharmaceutical companies.

Rohwedder's success lies in working closely with the customer to develop automation solutions that match the latest technology with the customer's needs and capabilities. These highly cost-effective systems range from basic rotary indexing systems to sophisticated flexible linear systems that are capable of handling the most complex assembly sequences. They are highly modular and easily expandable and, therefore, fit in very well with the customer's plan for future growth. Rohwedder has developed assembly solutions for various industries and can adapt flexible and innovative solutions to suit the customer's application and budget.
Recently, Rohwedder was approached by a customer with a challenge to fit a door module component assembly within their constraint of limited floor space. The engineering team came up with several options and also took advantage of Rohwedder's readily available resources by drawing on the experience of their German counterparts and honing in on the design best suited for this application.

R & D was undertaken to develop a new process and integrate new technology. The result was a departure from the traditional non-synchronous linear transfer system which would have taken up almost twice the floor space. The new design -- a compact synchronous assembly system -- was a flexible line which was a combination of automatic and operator-controlled workstations which provided ease of integration as well as tooling upgrades. The highlight of the line was a compact servo-driven cam indexing conveyor system -- a highly accurate transport medium.

The hybrid system consisted of the above-mentioned synchronous cam system and asynchronous transfer areas to buffer pallets between cams. The asynchronous transport system required minimal floor space yet allowed easy access to operators
The compact system works as follows: Two operators manually load main stampings to the line. The system automatically transfers these parts to further stations for additional processing and assembly. Subsequent processes are fully automatic and incorporate feeding, pressing, forming and bolt insertion. Additionally, these processes are verified with a series of poke-yoke features to confirm proper parameters are met. Integrated with the main line is a robot and offline press. Completed assemblies are tested for functionality prior to being unloaded.

The customer appreciated the new design which contributed to substantial cost reductions. Their floor space was at a premium and this assembly system fit perfectly into the limited space without compromising flexibility. The line currently runs three part variants and has potential to run more.

Rohwedder Automated Systems, Inc.

The Etanorm RSY high temperature heat transfer pumps are now available in XXL delivering a flow rate of up to 1,999 m3/h. Etanorm heat transfer pumps are specified for applications, using mineral-based thermal oils, synthetic liquids or hot water. The SYA/RSY pumps are rated for 16 bar -- and temperatures as high as 350°C with thermal oil and 180°C with water. Sporting large cooling fins and long distances between the hot hydraulics and sensitive components, they are designed to operate without external cooling.

KSB Pumps Inc.

Canadian Industrial Equipment News September 2006

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