In the automotive industry and special vehicle manufacturing, companies face similar challenges: high variant diversity, complex components, and manual production steps that consume time and resources. However, the requirements differ in detail.
Both areas need solutions that are flexible, precise, and economical. This is where IPG Mobile comes in.
Use Cases
Use Cases
In Pre-Series and Prototype Production
new vehicle concepts must be implemented quickly and precisely – often under time pressure and with limited resources.
In Special vehicle manufacturing
small series and one-offs dominate, fulfilling individual customer requirements. Automation is rarely worthwhile here, and manual work is standard.
Challenges
Challenges
The Challenge in Pre-Series and Prototype Production
In automotive prototype manufacturing, every minute counts. New vehicle models are developed under high innovation pressure, and production must keep pace with development. Traditional methods such as marking with coordinate measuring machines or using physical templates or jigs are not only time-consuming but also error-prone.
Precision is especially critical in stud welding. The exact positioning of the studs on the Body in White determines the quality and functionality of the vehicle. Conventional methods quickly reach their limits here.
The Challenge in Special Vehicle Manufacturing
Manufacturers of special vehicles – whether emergency vehicles, military vehicles, or armored limousines – must respond flexibly to customer requirements. Production is often manual, as automation is not cost-effective for small quantities. Variant diversity, complex shapes, and high quality requirements make assembly a challenge.
Challenges exist not only on the Body in White but also in masking in the painting process. Operators so far had to rely on drawings and all kind of metrology tooling ranging from measuring tapes to tactile or photogrammetry coordinate measuring systems. This is not only tedious but also error-prone – especially on complex curved surfaces prevailing in the automotive industry.
IPG Mobile - How does it work?
IPG Mobile - How does it work?
IPG Mobile in Pre-Series and Prototype Production
IPG Mobile revolutionizes prototype manufacturing through digital laser projection. CAD data and work instructions are projected directly onto the component – precise, flexible, and intuitive. In stud welding, IPG Mobile shows the exact position of the studs on the body sheet. The worker can mark the position briefly and place the stud – without a coordinate measuring machine.
Result:
- Up to 75% time savings
- Higher quality
- Fewer errors
- Leaner processes
IPG Mobile in Special Vehicle Manufacturing
In special vehicle manufacturing, IPG Mobile supports manual assembly through dynamic laser projection. 3D data from CAD or other sources is projected in 3D onto the workpiece – regardless the shape and even on moving parts. The worker sees exactly where to place bolts, cables, or welds. The system is easy to learn for the operator and teaching effort for new variants is minimal.
Result:
- Precise assembly despite variant diversity
- Error reduction
- Fast onboardin
- Higher efficiency in small series
Key Benefits
Key Benefits
