The Scalable Automation for Emerging Lab Production project (SCALAB) has as its objective the systematization of the automation of the micro-optical assembly sector.
At present, in particular the design of new micro-optic products is conducted manually due to a lack of support from automation components. In the context of SCALAB and together with collaborative partners like the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology, Schunk GmbH & Co. KG (automation hardware manufacturer) and Coherent Deutschland GmbH (laser technology manufacturer), MMI is developing an agent-based control architecture (see below) for the networking and simulation-based activation and control of sensors, robots and grippers, so that the automated production of new micro-optical products can be continuously scaled up from prototypical single mounting to serial assembly.
The approach followed envisages robots that are in a position to work hand in hand with human beings, thus facilitating the step-by-step expansion of the automated processes. During product development and prototype production these so-called desk-top or table-top robots can be operated in close interaction with the server, and support it in the assembly of certain parts. These very light and flexible robots simultaneously facilitate fast transformation and adaptation to changed assembly processes. In the early phases of product development the server remains responsible for the control of the complex processes like sensor evaluation for the alignment or inspection of the parts. In the later stages, however even these processes are to be automated on a step-by-step basis. With the help of a hardware-independent software solution, the transfer from a laboratory environment to the hardware at a later stage of series production can then be established.
For many companies, especially small-and-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) full automation represents a huge challenge, which demands extensive investments and expertise. The SCALAB consortium strives towards developing cost-effective solutions and solutions that are simple to implement, which permit a step-by-step automation of micro-products within the business environment.
More Projects
