The AMRC Integrated Manufacturing Group specialises in solving problems in low-volume, high-value assembly and difficult-to-handle components.
We focus on measurement assisted assembly. We bring together innovative techniques in robotics, metrology and design, to develop new ways of automatically assembling complex systems for aerospace and other low-volume industries. By measuring, understanding and adapting to varying tolerances and component positioning during the assembly process, we can ensure that complex assemblies are put together perfectly first time.
The AMRC Integrated Manufacturing Group (IMG) has three core areas of expertise, which we bring together to create total assembly solutions for real business problems:
Robotics
Automated robots are widely used in high-volume production industries such as automotive for simple repeatable tasks. We develop robotic systems for low-volume markets such as aerospace, where robots have to carry out tasks with significantly more complexity and variation.
We are also investigating the use of robotic systems as a replacement for CNC machine tools, to help businesses reduce capital costs and increase flexibility.
Metrology
Traditionally, people assemble a product, measure it, and then find out that they have a problem. By understanding the causes of problems, and carrying out measurement and correction during the assembly process, we work to develop systems that provide a faultless assembly every time.
This is a pressing issue for aerospace. In flagship projects such as the Boeing 787 and new Airbus programmes, systems and components are manufactured internationally and then brought together for final assembly.
Design
We are developing new design capabilities to complement our work in robotics and metrology. With complex robotic systems comes the need for new technologies and methodologies. We develop new programming techniques, fixturing methods, multi-tasking end effectors and automation systems.
For more information, please contact:
Dr Jim Heley, head of IMG
email: j.heley@amrc.co.uk