A glazing cell, using a vision system, has reduced the cycle time to around 33 seconds - down from 3 minutes required with a fixed-jig, manual system used previously.
After the success of the first glazing cell supplied to Nissan 2 years ago, the introduction of an additional cell for the Almera and Primera lines would appear to pose few engineering problems. The original cell cut cycle times for the operation 3-fold. However, this time the window design had changed, so Modular Automation chose to use a vision system to centralise the windows rather than the mechanical method used previously.

The system applies sealant to the side window glass, left or right, for both Nissan models.

The first operation requires the glass to be centralised prior to the application of sealant.

The original system could use a mechanical method of centralising as the window edges were rigid.

However, the new system has to work with windows fitted with rubber weather seals that make mechanical centralisation impossible.

To solve the problem Modular Automation now uses a vision system to locate the glass centre.

A Fanuc robot then picks up the glass at its central position using vacuum suction and rotates it under a static head that disperses the sealant around the edge of the glass.

After completion the system unloads the glass, with the sealant applied, to an operator pick up station.

According to Bob Scurr, the Nissan engineer responsible for the project, the system is incredibly efficient compared with the fixed-jig, manual system used previously.

‘It reduces the cycle time to around 33 seconds, down from 3 minutes,’ he explained.

‘ To save nearly two and a half minutes on one job is a big deal for us.’ Modular Automation has vast experience at developing innovative assembly systems using a modular approach and trusted technology.

By approaching its business in this practical way it ensures that its systems are realistically priced, effective and utterly reliable.