A returning customer in the electrical component manufacturing industry approached SDC with the need for a high-speed, high-precision automated machine to assemble small-sized electrical connectors with extremely tight tolerances. Leveraging our proprietary technology and extensive experience in automated small part assembly, we engineered a robust, custom automation solution tailored to their specific production requirements.
This machine needed to perform small part assembly with the highest precision. Our pre-engineered SDChassis offers the perfect machine platform for this high-speed application. With synchronized assembly and vision inspection stations, this machine is capable of producing high-quality electrical components in less than 2 seconds.
With a broad library of custom tooling already designed for a considerably small part assembly, our team was quick to adapt the designs for the SDChassis. Precision, accuracy, and repeatability are essential in this kind of application, and we have the capability to automate down to microscopic levels for this kind of electrical component assembly.
The machine is built on the SDChassis platform, serving as the foundation for this high-speed automated machine. Custom nesting fixtures are mounted on a 30-station servo-driven indexing dial to support automated small part assembly. Each station securely holds and positions the intricate components that make up the electrical connector assembly. As the dial indexes, the parts move through a precise, synchronized workflow.
Each station is equipped with custom tooling to perform critical functions such as terminal cutting, forming, and small metal part insertion into the housing. Between operations, integrated vision systems conduct real-time inspections to track part orientation, verify assembly, and measure tight tolerances—essential for complex small part manufacturing. Once assembled, the completed component is picked from its nest and placed into an output bin, ready for the next stage of electrical component assembly.
This fully automated turnkey solution offers speed, precision, and consistency for manufacturers seeking to streamline small part assembly. It’s a powerful example of how an automated machine can transform production efficiency and quality in demanding applications.
The SDChassis is a proprietary, pre-engineered, high-speed assembly platform built to deliver exceptional precision, durability, and efficiency across diverse industries. Designed around a cam-driven rotary dial, the SDChassis leverages over 20 years of proven performance and is constructed from heavy steel and precision-engineered components to ensure synchronized motion for both common automation processes and application-specific tasks.
Capable of fast and flexible small part assembly and processing, the SDChassis is an ideal solution for high-speed operations such as assembly, pick-and-place, and probing actions. From high-volume electrical connector assembly to micro-scale part handling, this automated machine excels at delivering precise, repeatable results. It is particularly well-suited for manufacturers requiring automated small part assembly for electronic components, terminals, and connector systems.
The successful implementation of this high-speed, high-precision assembly machine highlights SDC’s ability to deliver tailored automation solutions that meet the most demanding manufacturing requirements. By leveraging our proprietary SDChassis and integrating advanced technologies like custom tooling and vision-based inspection systems, we were able to significantly enhance our customer’s production capacity while maintaining exceptional quality standards. The machine’s 1.2-second cycle time, combined with its ability to handle intricate parts with tight tolerances, demonstrates how automation can drive both efficiency and reliability in complex small part manufacturing.
This project is a prime example of how SDC’s standardized, modular approach to automation not only reduces engineering risk and development time but also provides scalable solutions for future growth. With a focus on precision, repeatability, and performance, the deployed system has empowered our customer to remain competitive in a high-demand industry while minimizing manual labor and production variability. SDC continues to be a trusted partner in delivering proven automated systems that adapt to evolving manufacturing challenges.
A: This high-speed automated machine is ideal for small part assembly, including intricate electrical connector and component assemblies that demand tight tolerances and complex, multi-step assembly processes.
A: As a pre-engineered and modular platform, the SDChassis eliminates the need for custom system design from the ground up. It incorporates proven mechanical systems and components, reducing both project lead time and the likelihood of design-related issues.
A: This turnkey solution offers exceptional precision thanks to its servo-driven indexing dial, CAM-driven motion, and vision-guided inspection systems. These features ensure micron-level repeatability for every part produced.
A: Yes. The SDChassis platform is designed for flexibility and scalability. It can be adapted to accommodate product changes, increased volume, or additional processes with minimal re-engineering.
A: SDC offers comprehensive support, including system training, maintenance documentation, remote diagnostics, and spare parts availability. The robust design and high-quality components also minimize the need for frequent maintenance.
