ABSTRACT
In automatic assembly, the various individual assembly operations are generally carried out at separate workstations. For this method of assembly, a machine is required for transferring the partly completed assemblies from workstation to workstation, and a means must be provided to ensure that no relative motion exists between the assembly and the workhead or robot while the operation is being carried out. As the assembly passes from station to station, it is necessary that it be maintained in the required attitude. For this purpose, the assembly is usually built up on a base or work carrier, and the machine is designed to transfer the work carrier from station to station; an example of a typical work carrier is shown in Figure 2.1. Assembly machines are usually classified according to the system adopted for transferring the work carriers (Figure 2.2). Thus, an in-line assembly machine is one in which the work carriers are transferred in line along a straight slideway, and a rotary machine is one in which the work carriers move in a circular path. In both types of machine, the transfer of work carriers may be continuous or intermittent.
