Tree Pruning Assembly Line
![Tree Pruning Assembly Line](images/automation-plus/tree1.jpg)
Main pallet transfer line and the three operator workstations (at red emergency stop switches).
PROJECT SCOPE:
To develop a flexible manufacturing line to produce two styles of tree pruner heads, reducing labor from seven people to three people while doubling production.
COMPANY:
This company is an international manufacturer of garden equipment and consumer products.
DESCRIPTION:
System consisted of pallets, which would shuttle from station to station. Operators would place parts into the pallets with all riveting and assembly operations done automatically. Changing pallets and a selector switch from one position to another accomplishes changeover from one product to another.
UNIQUE FEATURES:
In order to increase production rates, the pallets had a unique; cam operated clamping mechanism, which would automatically clamp upon releasing the pallet.
PROJECT DURATION:
This project lasted twenty weeks from design to installation.
![Metal Prunner Head](images/automation-plus/tree3.jpg)
Close-up of the metal prunner head showing the finished product. Note the spring loaded automatically actuated clamps that are integral with the pallet.
![Tree Pruning Plastice Prunner Head](images/automation-plus/tree5.jpg)
This operator workstation shows the parts for the plastic prunner head placed into the pallet, ready for release to the riveting stations.
![Tree Pruning Automatice Station](images/automation-plus/tree7.jpg)
This fully automatic station feeds an actuator ball from the white hopper, down a track and inserts it into the end of the plastic prunner head, compressing the spring. The head is now ready for insertion of the blade and retaining screw.
![Tree Pruning Tubular Riveters](images/automation-plus/tree8.jpg)
This view shows three of the four tubular riveters with automatic bowl fed riveters.