Among the many processes being used to make low-volume and additive manufacturing easier, Ford’s latest is perhaps the most sci-fi. Javier, a mobile, autonomous robot on wheels has become integral to the company’s development of 3D Carbon printers and bringing down the costs of the parts it makes.
Javier is made by Ford’s supplier KUKA and can move around its workspace, instead of being fixed to the floor. In combination with a new communication interface program that allows machines from different suppliers to communicate with one another (something not previously possible), the 3D printer can tell Javier when a part will be finished and ready for pickup.
As a result of that, the machines can operate harmoniously even after all the workers have left the factory for the day. That allows the machines to operate through the night, increasing output and reducing costs.
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Their ability to work together also comes from a number of other Ford patents, some of which allow Javier to find where it should be without depending on cameras to “see,” which helps reduce margins of error and can be applied to other immobile machines.
Despite being autonomous, Ford still has to maintain the machines and upload designs in order to make the system work. Currently, Javier is employed in the manufacture of brake line brackets for the Mustang Shelby GT500 but engineers are working on new ways to implement these technologies.
“This new process has the ability to change the way we use robotics in our manufacturing facilities,” said Jason Ryska, director of global manufacturing technology development. “Not only does it enable Ford to scale its 3D printer operations, it extends into other aspects of our manufacturing processes – this technology will allow us to simplify equipment and be even more flexible on the assembly line.”
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