Application – Windshield Transfer and Orient  
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Customer’s Problem:
A multi-national heavy truck manufacturer requires front and rear windshields to be presented and oriented correctly for assembly line operator’s using lift assist devices to fit and mount directly onto the vehicle. A robot applies a sealant / adhesive prior to installation. Application of the sealant / adhesive must not be more than 3 minutes prior to installation for proper curing to take place.

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MPT Inc.’s Solution:
MPT Inc. engineered and supplied a transfer, orientation and shuttle system. A VFD controlled electric motor driven large torque gearbox rotates an arm with an end effector that picks the windshield from the sealant robot nest using vacuum grippers. Vacuum grippers have multiple zones to securely convey multiple product geometries. At a programmable point in the arm rotation the windshield is rotated 90 degrees. Upon satisfying interlocks that the shuttle cart is in position, the arm sets the windshield onto the vacuum cups of the shuttle cart and continues to travel until the arm is clear of the shuttle cart. The shuttle cart transfers the properly oriented windshield to the operator station for presentation to the assembly line operators. Upon windshield removal from the shuttle cart, the shuttle cart transfers back to accept the next windshield.
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Results:
Reduced operator injuries and sealant /adhesive damage from manually re-orienting the windshields. Reduced time from sealant / adhesive application to installation on the truck providing a better seal that prevents leakage and customer complaints. Improved Profits!!
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(1) Transfer arm picks windshield from
sealant adhesive application station.		 (2) Transfer arm rotates via electric motor
and heavy gearbox smoothly.

 

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(3) Transfer arm end effector rotates windshield 90 degrees.
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(4) Transfer arm places oriented windshield onto shuttle cart. (5) Transfer arm clears and shuttle cart
conveys windshield to operator station.