Canon adopts automated assembly centre concept

Whareas many firms which use robots for assembly opt for a long line of robots and a short cycle time, Canon, the Japanese optical company, has adopted a system in which robots work to a cycle of around 40s. They are able to carry out several different operations in that cycle because they are built into assembly centres with ancillaries able to supply different components to the robots. The result is that the robots attain a high utilisation rate within the cycle, while it is practical to carry out many adjustments at one station. An important feature is the use of up to five interchangeable grippers for each robot.