Automation Integration for the Power Equipment Industry

At Chapter 2 Incorporated, we provide a broad selection of contract manufacturing services to accommodate a wide range of manufacturing needs. Regardless of the customer’s industry or application, our team is fully dedicated to providing quality products and services that meet and/or exceed their expectations.
The following case study highlights our ability to provide solutions for complex machine engineering and integration challenges. By reengineering a machining cell and integrating automatic and robotic tending capabilities, we improved operations and, consequently, increased operational savings for the customer.
The Problem
When our customer’s orders started increasing, we had to find a way to keep up and deliver on time. We were experiencing increased volumes with a decreasing labor pool due to finding qualified personnel to operate the machining cells as engineered. Our goal was to reduce the gap between what our equipment was capable of and what the operators could achieve. By implementing robotics into this previously established machining process, we were able to create a more ergonomically friendly operation for our machine operators while increasing parts produced per hour.
Due to our previous performance record and turnkey capabilities (including machining and assembly), the customer knew they could rely on us to get the job done. While integrating the robotic technology, machine tools, and custom-built equipment would be difficult, our engineering and integration team was well-equipped to design, develop, and deliver a system that met all of the customer’s needs.
Services We Provided
Key Leaders for this Project:
- The Maintenance Team Lead served as the project lead. They were in charge of implementation and communicating with third-party partners.
- Our VP of Operations provided the concepts and made the final decisions.
- A Mechanical Engineer was responsible for the custom equipment design and build phase.
By working together, the team was able to complete the project, which required the following:
- Engraving capabilities (for automated part identification and traceability purposes)
- Understanding of robotic machine tool tending technology
- CNC turning, CNC Y axis live tooling capabilities
- Assembly capabilities (for an integrated custom rotary assembly station designed and built in-house)
- Keyway broaching capabilities (for an integrated custom broach machine designed and built in-house)
The Result
Once all of the upgrades were implemented, the customer expressed complete satisfaction with our service. The modernization of the manually operated machine cell resulted in increased OEE (Overall Equipment Efficiency) and a cost savings to the customer. Even though efficiencies increased greatly, there was still no compromise in sustaining quality capabilities. The customer remains very satisfied with the way this operation was reengineered and continues their partnership with us for future jobs as well.
Why Partner With Chapter 2, Inc.?
Equipped with extensive experience providing contract manufacturing services for various industrial applications, we have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide the right solution for nearly any manufacturing and maintenance need. Whether you’re looking for a custom component or require assistance reworking an existing system, we can leverage our design, engineering, machining, assembly, and integration capabilities to bring your idea to life. To partner with us on your next project, request a quote today.