FORCE builds automated assembly machines following common-sense methodologies which make for an easier to use machine – minimizing future potential maintenance and quality issues.

8-Station dual orbital-riveting machine with motor-current monitoring and automatic unloader with pass/fail chute

Mode Control ( Auto / Manual / None )

AUTOMATIC MODE – Normal operating mode for production employees. No manual functions are enabled, requiring part to be processed through machine in the intended controlled manner.
MANUAL MODE – Intended for maintenance personnel, this allows manual operation of individual aspects of the machine. Particularly useful in testing inputs and outputs for troubleshooting purposes.
NO MODE – In this mode, machine will not function. All outputs are disabled in software.

Maintenance Functions

I/O Page on HMI for visual indication of all Inputs and Outputs
Verbose faults and alarms on HMI for easy troubleshooting
Total Machine Count (non-resetting) for maintenance-count reference

FORCE Machine-Design Basics

Hard-fixturing provides the easiest way to prevent incorrectly loaded or parts with missing features.
If changeover is required, verification of correct changeover performed by sensors before automatic-mode is allowed.
Optionally, border-samples (red-parts) can be required to be run through machine each shift.
Primarily use simple digital proximity-switch based probes, only using more complex sensors or vision when absolutely necessary. Keeping things simple keep the machine easily maintained and reliable.
Automatically unload parts leaving it to the machine – not the operator – to decide the final disposition of a finished part.
If the operator must unload the part, require a supervisor with a key to allow a bad-part to be removed from the machine.

FORCE uses industry-standard Allen-Bradley brand PLCs and HMIs, but can use any hardware upon the customer’s request.

Machine Networking & Monitoring

FORCE designs and programs machines with the ability for future data-collection & monitoring. We have the capabilities to develop custom software for your application.

Whether you want to view the status of your machine from across the plant or world, FORCE can provide a solution.
Process-data can be captured and analyzed for export into Office applications, as well as integrated into or used alongside existing ERP systems.
Traceability information such as serial-numbers, test results, or operator-information can be stored into a database and retrieved via web-interface or other means.

We offer turn-key data-collection and integration solutions on new equipment or existing machines. Call today for more information!

Counter-clockwise from rear: changeover-verification & part-presence station, followed by orbital riveting station. Unloader in foreground.