24 February 2010
Andrew Robinson, managing director of Autotech: “We have been providing Automod and Robot Studio simulation for some time, allowing us to test PLC code and develop robot paths prior to on-site work. The Technomatix software products will allow us to prove entire integrated systems and generate fully optimised robot paths and PLC code. We know that our clients will benefit enormously from this technology.”Autotech has recently recruited Mark Demers as simulations manager to head up the new service. Mark has joined the company from Jaguar Land Rover, where he worked for eight years, and he has specialised in facility simulation since leaving university.The scalable Robcad workcell simulation tool will allow Autotech to develop, simulate, optimise, validate and off-line programme multi-device robotic and automated manufacturing processes. These include spot welding, arc welding, laser and water-jet cutting, drilling, riveting and painting. Demers said: “The benefits of comprehensive simulation are clear. Development time will be shorter, quality will be improved, manufacturing costs lower and costly design errors will be eradicated.”Robot simulation for Land Rover’s Halewood plantAutotech has already secured its first order for the simulation service. FFT EDAG Produktionssysteme GmbH & Co – a leading plant supplier to the car industry headquartered in Fulda, Germany – has awarded Autotech the contract to provide Robcad simulation, robot programming and PLC development for the complete body sides production lines for the eagerly awaited small Land Rover – based on the highly acclaimed LRX concept vehicle – which will be manufactured at the Halewood plant. The project will ensure that all robot programmes are fully simulated and optimised prior to implementation at Halewood, providing a seamless link between CAD design and the production environment.This prestigious contract follows Autotech’s successful implementation of the complete body shop for the new Jaguar XJ at Castle Bromwich last year, which features more than 200 robots and 100 PLC systems.
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