Working at Ford’s Advanced Manufacturing Center, Javier is responsible for operating the company’s 3D printers totally on his own. Javier barely rests, and he’s always punctual, precise, and ready to work. This cutting-edge robot on wheels from supplier KUKA, called Javier by Ford’s additive manufacturing operators, is a vital part of the company’s development of an industry-first process to utilize 3D Carbon printers with an autonomous mobile robot instead of a fixed, stationary unit.
Ford has actually used 3D printing technology for a few years, including gigantic printers to produce automotive components, even efficiently converting waste into parts. Through the strength of the company’s partnerships, Ford 3D printing technology has evolved enough to aid in metal production. Over the years, Ford 3D printing technology has also become more autonomous than ever before, which is fitting for an automaker that has invested heavily in AV projects.
“This new 3D printing process has the ability to change the way we use robotics in our manufacturing facilities,” said Jason Ryska, director, global manufacturing technology development. “Not only does it enable Ford to scale its 3D printer operations, it extends into other aspects of our manufacturing processes – this technology will allow us to simplify equipment and be even more flexible on the assembly line.”
Ford has had a lot of success with Javier, using the machine’s feedback to significantly reduce risks. Beyond 3D printers, the technique can be used for a vast array of robots already working at the company to bolster efficiency and reduce cost. In its quest to innovate, Ford has filed several patents related to the overall process, communication interfaces and precise positioning of the robot, which does not require use of a camera vision system to “see.”
Usually, different pieces of equipment from numerous suppliers aren’t compatible because they do not run the same communication interface. Ford developed an application interface program that allows different pieces of equipment to “speak the same language,” and send constant feedback to each other. For example, the Carbon 3D printer tells the KUKA autonomous mobile robot when the printed product will be finished, then the robot lets the printer know the robot has arrived and is ready for pick-up. This innovative communication is what makes the whole process possible.
Javier enables Ford to operate its 3D printers all night long, even after employees have left for the day. Not only does this increase throughput, it reduces the cost of custom-printed products. Ford has used the printer to make low-volume, custom parts, such as a brake line bracket for the Performance Package-equipped Mustang Shelby GT500.
While the process itself is autonomous, Ford operators are responsible for uploading 3D designs to the printer and maintaining the machinery, and for engineering new ways to use the technology.
We’ll have more on Ford’s innovative technology soon, so be sure to tune in and in the meantime browse our available inventory for the latest Ford vehicles at George Wall Ford.
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