A returning SDC customer was looking to further optimize their facility with a new medical hose assembly machine. Having built a similar project, our team was well prepared to deliver a fully capable custom machine.
The main hose assembly was fit to run a 5+ mm tube with two lengths. Using a custom SDC hose dereeling and feeding system, the hose feeds into the machine according to the designated length. Two 6-axis FANUC robots pick the cut hose, dip the ends in a special glue, then join the hose ends with plastic fittings using machine-controlled hose insertion depth inspection.
The dual robots that pick up the cut hose utilize machine vision to determine the precise position of the hose end. Accurate force monitoring during insertion creates a force vs. insertion position curve to ensure correct insertion. This process demanded synchronized programming between the two robotic arms.
With the hose assembly complete, a third FANUC 6-axis robot coils the hose, moves to a Cognex inspection camera. After passing inspection, the product is placed in a bag with an instruction card to complete the final machine process. The bagged product receives a final vision inspection before being conveyed to an operator area.
The smaller hose assembly required an additional step per customer specifications, so a “Cap and Strap” subassembly was integrated. This process automatically assembled a cap into a strap loop which then fed to the main hose assembly area. Programmed to run twice as fast as the main assembly, each cycle of the subassembly produces two cap and strap components alternately designated for either a bin placement or assembly to the hose.
Machine Rate: 18 seconds per part; 200 parts per hour
