// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM
Quick Changeover
Quick Changeover is about reducing the time it takes to switch a machine or production line from making one product to another. This helps factories be more flexible and produce smaller batches.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
Quick Changeover is a lean manufacturing technique focused on minimizing the time required to transition production equipment between different product types, thereby increasing machine availability and production flexibility.
BACKGROUND
The Ford Modular engine is an overhead camshaft (OHC) V8 and V10 gasoline-powered small block engine family introduced by Ford Motor Company in 1990 for the 1991 model year. The term “modular” applied to the setup of tooling and casting stations in the Windsor and Romeo engine manufacturing plants, not the engine itself.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Rapid Changeover
- Fast Changeover
- Setup Time Reduction
USAGE NOTE
Implementing quick changeover helps reduce batch sizes and improve production flow.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Quick Changeover.
Develops the Digital Enterprise Suite, including software like Tecnomatix Plant Simulation, which allows manufacturers to create a digital twin of their production lines to simulate, validate, and optimize changeover processes, drastically reducing setup times and errors.
A German company specializing in gripping systems and clamping technology. They are a leader in developing hardware for quick changeovers, such as the VERO-S quick-change pallet system, which enables workpiece and fixture changes in seconds.
Provides integrated automation and information solutions. Their Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and FactoryTalk software suite help manage and execute changeover procedures by providing digital work instructions and automating machine parameter adjustments.
A leading manufacturer of workholding and automation tooling, DESTACO develops a range of manual and robotic tool changers. This technology enables robots to switch end-effectors (like grippers or welding tools) automatically and quickly, facilitating flexible production.
A global manufacturer of industrial robots and automation solutions. KUKA develops both the robotic hardware and software, such as KUKA.Sim, that facilitates offline programming and simulation, reducing downtime for re-tooling and reprogramming between production runs.
Through its 3DEXPERIENCE platform and DELMIA brand, the company provides virtual twin software for manufacturing. This technology is used to model and simulate entire production processes, including changeovers, to optimize them for speed and efficiency before implementation.
Offers a Manufacturing Automation Platform (MAP) that allows users to design and deploy custom automated equipment from a library of modular parts. This approach enables the rapid creation and reconfiguration of jigs, fixtures, and robotic cells, supporting agile manufacturing and fast changeovers.
A major manufacturer of industrial robots and factory automation systems. Fanuc develops features like iRVision and simulation software that simplify robot programming and setup, while also supporting a vast ecosystem of third-party quick-change end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) providers.