Advanced Vision-Guided Robotics (VGR) is no longer a theoretical concept; it’s a tangible reality transforming automotive manufacturing – there are numerous applications being deployed successfully in the automotive industry today.  

Volkswagen Slovakia sought to automate a labor-intensive car body production process. Previously, components were haphazardly stored in floor-level containers, requiring manual retrieval and placement into a jig before robotic processing.  

This manual step introduced inconsistencies and inefficiencies. 

3D Vision Guidance with PhoXi 3D Scanner  

Volkswagen aimed to eliminate these challenges by implementing a fully automated robotic system capable of direct part retrieval and jig insertion. 

Photoneo, now part of Zebra Technologies, delivered a robust solution centered on high precision PhoXi 3D Scanner XL. This scanner was critical in analyzing 3D CAD models of the components, accurately determining their precise position and orientation within the containers.

This data enabled the robotic system to: 

• Precisely Locate and Retrieve: Identify and extract parts from the bin with pinpoint accuracy. 
• Dynamically Adjust Orientation: Utilize a sophisticated gripper to adjust part orientation in real-time. 
• Accurately Place into Jig: Consistently and reliably position parts into the jig, ensuring seamless integration with downstream processes. 

Results – Stable, Increased Throughput and Reduced Costs 

The implementation of this automated solution led to tangible improvements: 

• Enhanced Process Stability: Eliminated manual variability, resulting in consistent and predictable production outcomes. 
• Increased Repeatability: Achieved precise and repeatable part placement, minimizing errors and rework. 
• Reduced Production Costs: Streamlined operations and minimized labor requirements, leading to significant cost savings. 
• Increased throughput: The automated system was able to work constantly, and at a speed that humans could not match. 

“From our experience delivering VGR solutions to leading OEM manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers, reliability and scalability are paramount,” emphasizes Tomas Michalik, Director of Global Key Account Management at Photoneo. “Photoneo’s solutions, characterized by their easy-to-deploy and user-friendly interface, coupled with industry-leading 3D sensors, provide our partners with unparalleled confidence and peace of mind.” 

Are You Ready To Drive Growth In Automotive Manufacturing?

Car manufacturers face pressure of improving quality while lowering costs; all amid the critical labor shortages. 

How do you solve this impossible equation?

The standard answer is automation. The smarter answer is automation with perfect sight for robots. By leveraging the power of 3D vision, you can move beyond fixed coordinates and unlock a new level of precision and adaptability on your factory floor.

Find out all it takes in our latest Automotive E-Book – From Press Shop To General Assembly: How 3D Vision Drives Car Manufacturing Automation