Advanced Karakuri racks
Transporting parts with gravity and minimal space
The Customer
Volvo Cars Gent is one of the largest car plants in Belgium. The plant produces several Volvo models, including fully electric vehicles. As the number of model variants grows, every square metre on the assembly line becomes critical.
The Challenge
The introduction of new electric models greatly increased the number of parts and variants. There was not enough space on the assembly line to offer all variants directly. Volvo was looking for a system where parts could be prepared offline by sequence and then presented to the line in the correct order, using as little floor space as possible.
The solution
SMO developed a robust karakuri system for rear wheel units and lower link arms. Karakuri is a Japanese principle where you use gravity instead of complex propulsion.
The system consists of:
Manual lift systems operating on gravity. Empty workpiece carriers automatically lower for loading.
Dolly racks with a 24V driving system, allowing operators to move the carts effortlessly.
Automatic clamping system to connect racks to the buffer lift.
Pneumatic lift on the assembly line that raises the pieces to working height for ergonomic removal.
After assembly, the operator presses a button and the empty workpiece carriers return via the overhead return flow.
Technical Specifications
- Type Karakuri system
- Parts Rear wheel units (L+R), lower link arms
- Lift system Manual (gravity) + pneumatic
- Return flow Automatic via overhead return
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