Automatic device for housing assembly
For a client, we developed a dedicated automatic device for inserting seals and pins into plastic housings. The device enables a stable, automated, and controlled assembly process through four workstations, with minimal human intervention and high repeatability.
Initial challenge – Manual assembly of plastic housings with inserted seals and pins was time-consuming, ergonomically challenging, and prone to errors. The client wanted to automate key steps in the process to improve product quality, reduce operator dependence, and increase productivity.
Result – We developed an automatic device with a rotary table and specially designed workstations that allows precise and reliable component assembly while reducing operator workload and shortening production time.
Solution description
The assembly process for the housings takes place over four rotary stations. The operator inserts the housing and seal only at the first station; thereafter, the device automatically performs all necessary steps up to the final inspection. Each station is functionally separate and technically optimized for its specific step, ensuring stable and repeatable operation of the device.
Benefits for the client:
- significantly reduced manual labor and the ability to supervise multiple devices with one operator,
- faster and more repeatable production cycle,
- fewer assembly errors thanks to automatic component inspection,
- system upgradability to meet future needs,
- increased safety and reduced physical strain for operators.
Device operation steps
Station 1 – Inserting the semi-finished product and seal, removing the finished part
The operator places the empty plastic housing and seal into the designated fixture and starts the cycle via a safety switch. After completion, the finished assembled product is removed at the same station.
Station 2 – Seal crimping
When the part rotates to the second station, a pneumatic cylinder crimps the seal into the housing fixture.
Station 3 – Pin insertion
Pins are fed from a vibratory feeder to the manipulator, where sensors monitor quantity and presence. Once two pins are ready, the pneumatic system inserts them into the correct positions on the semi-finished product.
Station 4 – Component presence check
At the final station, a camera verifies that the seal and both pins are correctly installed. If deviations are detected, the part is rejected; otherwise, it rotates back to the first station for removal.