Client: Aisin Texas Corporation | Location: Cibolo, TX
We noticed an extended cycle time at one of our customer’s assembly line stations. During our research, we observed the technician spending unnecessary time carefully relocating a power tool to adjust (2) separate jigs at each cycle. This inefficiency could be avoided by implementing a second power tool.
After a consultation, we were permitted to implement a low-cost trial of our hypothesis by engineering and 3D-printing a 3-piece prototype tool holder set. Once installed, we conducted a trial with the customer, and concluded that a permanent version of our Tool Holder, along with purchasing a second power tool, would result in a reduced cycle time, and reduced technician fatigue.
The permanent Tool Holder Set was made from quarter-inch stainless steel sheet metal that was laser-cut, tapped, and bent to shape. Stainless Steel hardware was procured as well.
Our Mechanical Engineering Department was responsible for the measurement, design, prototyping, trialing, and fabrication, and installation of the 3-piece Tool Holder Set. It remains to be used by the customer today.
