Optimal design of a flexible transferring system in press automation using fuzzy clustering

摘要

Purpose - Modern day manufacturing has seen the replacement of manual transfer of parts between press machines with automatic transfer systems. Higher automation productivity demands greater flexibility of transfer devices. This paper deals with methods to improve the flexibility of fixtures designed to transfer parts between press machines. Design/methodology/approach - Describes methods to improve the flexibility of fixtures designed to transfer parts between press machines in Press Shop 3 at Iran Khodro Company (IKCO). A fuzzy C means clustering-based method is developed to optimize the number and arrangement of actuators for each fixture. Economical aspects of this novel design are addressed as well. Findings - The simulation results suggest that application of a flexible fixtures system and use of linear motors was the best method of adding flexibility to the loader-unloader system. Originality/value - Provides evidence that flexible components are indispensable to increasing production speed and reliability in an automated system.