Automatic chamfering and insertion of insulation in electric motor production

To address this issue, ELNOR conducted a feasibility study together with Flanders Make. The study examined the physical operations in the processes and tested them using a collaborative robot (cobot) and a two-dimensional vision system. Feasibility was proven for several process steps, including detecting the burr side of a stator, identifying damage to a part and ensuring quality control after slot insulation insertion.

Moreover, a test setup showed that the use of 2D vision and a cobot could facilitate the correct placement of motor stators on the slot insulation insertion machine. This implementation reduced the need for manual intervention and improved accuracy.

The feasibility study also looked at the investment perspective, determining the return on investment and analysing factors such as operator involvement and cycle time scaling. A cost model was used to assess the feasibility of the required investment.

Based on the findings of the feasibility study, Flanders Make provided ELNOR with valuable insights to determine the profitability of an automated production process, as well as the extent to which automation should be implemented. The study helped ELNOR assess the impact of automation on process results and added value for the operator.