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Digital Toolkit with intelligently controlled robotics

Research project on the production of electronic components and nodes using digital manufacturing technologies

Customer
Fraunhofer ENAS,
Research & Development

Year
2023

The highlights at a glance
Elimination of semi-finished products and tools, independence from geometry and volume thanks to low fixed costs and optimized warehousing, digital process chain with fast response times and short distribution channels, „just-in-sequence“ finishing“
Cooperation between research institutes, universities, and SMEs
Further development of printed electronics for functionalized robotic grippers
Goal: more intelligent, agile, and efficient production lines
Intelligent Software Tools and Adaptive Inkjet Print Modules
Testing the robot setup for different application scenarios and process steps (printing, curing)
Funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research
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The project
The challenge

The demonstration of an inline implementation of sensors and for printed electronics into an existing production ecosystem, as applied in the assembly of electronic devices (OLEDs, automotive or aerospace consoles). The robotics implemented in the production line itself shall take over the required control for handling the mechanical pick-and-place sequences.

The solution

Sensors (e.g., for pressure, humidity, or temperature) and individual gripping surfaces are integrated directly into the „artificial hand“ of a pick-and-place robot. Paired with intelligent software, products can thus be handled flexibly. A second robot prints electronic sensor components along with functional 3D surface features directly onto the robot arm's „artificial hand.“ The result: sensors and functional surfaces can be printed onto 3D objects with a high degree of freedom. The combination of inkjet printing technology and robotics enables seamless integration into existing production lines.

As a technology company, we provide consulting support with our expertise from over 2,000 successful automation projects. In addition to the development, testing, and implementation of the digital toolkit, industrial validation is our overarching goal. To this end, we take on the role of end-user to investigate the robot setup across various application scenarios, process steps (printing, curing), and sales potentials.

© Fraunhofer ENAS

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Portrait of Andreas Braun, Team Leader Digital Surface Technology
Andreas Braun
Business Development – Digital Surface Technology
+49 (7520) 9513 - 0
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