Innovative integrated quality inspection system for advanced production lines
RedBox development project
- Grant amount
- 135 786 457 Ft
- Implementation
- 2017–2019
- Funding source
- NKFI Alap
Through our custom machine building and automation work we have found that every customer is after the same thing: maximum productivity and zero scrap. The aim of the project was to develop a standard, universal quality inspection unit – the RedBox – by integrating the most advanced solutions available in the industry.
The development was completed by the end of 2019: machine capability studies carried out on automotive workpieces delivered promising results, utility model and design protection applications were filed, and an intellectual property valuation was prepared together with the complete know-how documentation.
Goals of the development
- Small footprint and high speed – can be integrated into single- or multi-level production lines alike
- Flexible handling of a large number of product types, with no downtime
- Suitable for both in-line and end-of-line tasks
- Precision that meets automotive quality requirements
- User-friendly, integrated software environment – no specially trained operator required
- Complete elimination of scrap passing down the line, even as part of zero-defect manufacturing
- Outstanding return on investment figures
Project diary
Development of the RedBox has started! The specification is being drawn up, and the remaining sub-tasks can begin shortly.
The initial specification is complete. Mechanical and electrical design work, as well as software development, have started.
A new developer joined the team, so the 3D and motion calculation tasks could also get under way.
The project is progressing as planned. Major and highly promising innovations have been achieved in the software.
The mechanical designs are finished; the manufacturing documentation is being compiled.
At the end of the first milestone the project exceeded our expectations: the likely range of applications of the unit goes well beyond what was originally planned.
Everything has fallen into place – the unit has been powered up and it works. A long test period follows.
We also managed to get the BiSS-C modules processing the encoder signals to work together with the Omron NX system.
The tests have been completed. The results are good; we are developing the lighting further and evaluating new imaging and measuring devices.
Continuous development: we tried out new hardware components, and many of the modifications started last year have proven successful.
The project deadline has been extended to the end of the year, so the software can be finalised in parallel with the technological completion.
The second year is coming to a close. The hardware performs excellently; this version already holds its own in industrial conditions.
The grant-funded development has been completed. We ran tests on automotive workpieces, filed design protection applications and completed the intellectual property valuation. Development continues based on end-user feedback.