Abstract
The level of automation in the manufacture of recreational aluminum boats is very low. Robotized welding is rarely utilized, although it is commonly considered as the most effective way to reduce costs and increase competitiveness. A reason for the under-exploitation of robotics can be found in the construction of aluminum boats; boat models and their detailed structures are almost without exception individual pieces. A new stiffener structure for an aluminum recreational boat hull is developed in this work. Construction of the stiffener as a module allows exploitation of the advantages of modularization. The number of different parts is reduced and the structure simplified improves the applicability of robotic welding and provides benefits accruing from mass production. The same module can be used in several boat models. The modularity also makes it possible to use the same advanced robot welding fixture for a variety of boat models.
Highlights
Manufacturing industry in developed countries is under considerable strain
The old stiffener structure was examined from the point of view of robotic welding
Since the aim of the study was to enhance the use of robotic welding, the modularization process could be started straight from the manufacture base
Summary
International competition is forcing companies to strive for better efficiency, reduced costs, increased quality, and reduced response time. Products should fulfill customer needs more effectively and a greater variety of products (i.e. customized products) should be available. These diverse requirements are to some extent conflicting. Modularization and automation can be seen as one of the most effective ways to increase the competitiveness of industrial companies. Modularization achieves this by bridging the advantages of standardization and rationalization with customization and flexibility [1]. A modular system is composed of units (or modules) that are designed independently but still function as an effective whole
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have