Automation of Screwing Technology in Moving Assembly Line : A case study in automotive manufacturing industry

Purpose: The thesis investigates the automation of screwing operation on moving assembly line, that can be integrated with the current workflow using automation technology and collaborative robots. The study focuses on reducing the number of manual tasks in screwing operation while considering the ergonomics and safety factor of the operator. Method: The study uses mixed methods research approach, such as interviews and observation, along with literature review on the desired topics. The study focus on details of the company and their production layout. Practical challenges are derived from the combination of data, providing a guidance on developing an automated solution. Findings: The research questions were answered, using the data derived from the interviews. The empirical data was compared with the theoretical data to enhance the validity. The resulted data identified to develop a new concept to satisfy all the technical functions. Implications: The research finds out that a collaboration with an industrial robot, can help the operators to perform desired task. The robot needs to be supported with other aspects such as motion of robot, monitor system and safety. The research identified a conceptual design to overcome these challenges, and to change the production layout to accommodate them is recommended. Delimitations: The study is focused on the screwing technology on a moving assembly line, and a concept is developed to overcome the challenges. There is no prototype constructed, the proposed idea is designed in robot studio to showcase the idea. Keyword: Moving assembly line, Human-robot collaboration, Screwing technology, Automated screwing technology, industrial robots, Automobile manufacturing