Is the “Knowledge Gap” Bogging Down Your Assembly Operations?
Assembly of complex parts, such as aircraft components, relies on human activity. Aerospace and other manufacturers of large, complex equipment use assembly drawings to build their products. Technicians read and interpret assembly documentation and drawings, then must transfer that knowledge onto the component that they are putting together.
Although this process seems simple enough, it actually creates a potential point of failure. Between the time of viewing the drawing or instruction and the point when they carry out the necessary actions, technicians can fall victim to distraction or displacement (focusing on the wrong area), or misinterpret instructions. The transfer of knowledge from 2-D drawing and instructions to 3-D assembly creates a “knowledge gap” — where error could be introduced into the process.
Fortunately, Delta Sigma Company (DSC) has a solution. Optical projection via a ProjectionWorks product such as AssemblyWorks can eliminate potential errors by eliminating the knowledge gap.
Pinpoint knowledge
ProjectionWorks removes much of the potential for error by projecting instruction data, one step at a time, directly onto the assembly. The solution consists of hardware and software that import or create 3-D geometry to project work instructions onto contoured surfaces for complex assembly tasks. After the technician completes one step, the next is projected onto the part.
The projection can also can produce 3-D wrapped text and colors, photos or video, outlined or solid shapes and symbols, measured values, and other information from a 3-D computer-aided design (CAD) model. Furthermore, the projection does not flicker like laser projections are apt to do. The system can be applied to all manner of assembly steps:
- Drilling holes
- Destacking
- Deburring
- Cleaning
- Applying sealant
- Applying promoter
Consistent, accurate processes
ProjectionWorks can reduce the labor cost of creating assembly documentation, as well as recurring costs for assembly, finishing, training, and rework. The solution enables companies to specify the best way to produce an assembly, with no room for interpretation. That information is placed directly onto the component, at the correct time, every time.
You can employ ProjectionWorks in your assembly operations as a standalone system, with no outside data connections, or as a fully integrated, enterprise-wide system. It’s a sound investment for improving the quality of your operations — while ensuring that you capture valuable assembly knowledge so that every tech, from novice to seasoned veteran, will be equipped to do the job the right way every time.
[cta]To answer more questions about optical projection and how it can make assembly operations better, faster, and cheaper, call DSC at (770) 575-5100 or email info@deltasigmacompany.com.[/cta]
