Reducing burden and improving efficiency in multi-product workpiece suction transfer with Compact Arm
CKD Corporation
We introduce a case study of suction transfer improvement for multi-product workpieces.(Custom-made specification)Conventionally, workpieces under 10 kg were transferred manually without assistance, and the physical burden on workers was not regarded as an issue.In recent years, addressing low-weight handling has also gained importance, and introducing the Compact Arm reduces burden and enables efficient operation.
With frequent repetition or poor posture, even lightweight loads place a significant burden on the body and reduce safety. Stable transfer reduces the risk of workpiece drops and pinching, contributing to improved safety.
Issues
Physical burden on workers from transferring workpieces of up to approximately 10 kg (photo shows 5 kg)
Workpieces were conventionally transferred manually, resulting in the following challenges.
・Workers experienced physical burden, but it had not surfaced as a recognized issue.
Even with lightweight loads, depending on work posture, burden accumulated in the lower back, shoulders, and arms, creating a risk of workpiece drops.
・Reduced work efficiency
Fatigue from repetitive work reduces efficiency
・Even when wanting to install a balancer in a narrow space, no installable balancer was available.
Reason for introduction
The Compact Arm makes workpiece transfer easier
Even for workpieces under 10 kg, previously classified as lightweight, more customers are looking for compact, lightweight, easy-to-operate assist devices due to repetitive work, poor working posture, and the growing momentum for diversity utilization.
Customers obtain product information through our website, email, and videos, experience the actual equipment at exhibitions, private shows, and factory tours, and then adopt the product.
Effects after introduction
Compact Arm implementation contributes to reduced worker burden, improved efficiency, and safer operation
The following effects were confirmed after introducing the Compact Arm.
・Reduced work burden
Light operability reduces strain on the body. Suction-holding the workpiece enables one-handed operation and improves working posture. (Suction is one example)
The load cell specification accommodates multi-product handling and enables smooth transfer.
・Achieving safe operation
Reduced fatigue decreases work errors and enables safe operation. Automatic weight detection prevents sudden upward swing or drops caused by incorrect balance.
・Being an extremely compact balancer made installation possible.