Projecting production forwards

~ The Sempre Group introduces the Arkite HIM with AR projection system ~

To help manufacturers make the most out of their operators’ skills, industrial metrology specialist, The Sempre Group, now supplies the Arkite Human Interface Mate (HIM). The system means manufacturers across the UK can easily implement augmented reality (AR) into pre-existing assembly lines. The use of AR to guide operators through the assembly process can drastically reduce human error, training and production cycle time.

Any time an operator is working on something repeatedly, there is a possibility of human error. As a result, scrap levels increase and with a higher number of defective products comes unwanted costs. The Arkite HIM reduces human error by 90 per cent, which is valuable in manufacturing processes where robots are not feasible and the workforce is still vital, such as quality control. Light picking and visual projection can increase productivity by 75 per cent by projecting step-by-step instructions onto a surface for the workforce to follow, bridging the gap between robotics and the manual workforce.

The Arkite system also validates the work being done using embedded smart sensors, which take time stamps and qualitatively measure performance to ensure that certain tasks have been completed correctly. This reduces the need for management support, while maintaining a high level of control over the assembly line. The Arkite HIM is therefore suited to industries like automotive, aerospace, medical and electronics where validation is needed.

“During these unprecedented times, manufacturing managers need to ensure that they are able to achieve maximum productivity with their available workforce,” explained Chloe Reynolds, regional sales engineer, lean enterprise, at The Sempre Group. “For companies working with limited employees, or who are moving staff to new areas, this tool could be exactly what is needed.

“The Arkite HIM reduces training time by 50 per cent, allowing employees to hit the ground running when performing new tasks,” added Reynolds. “It can also be customised so that each employee receives instructions appropriate for their skill set and preferred language. We can also add the instructions for multiple products in a range to the same system.”

The ArkiteHIM consists of a projector and the Human Interface Mate, equipped with the necessary software. The Sempre Group can fully customise the system to each customer’s needs by teaching it specific sequence processes, including where items are coming from and specific height levels of bins. Arkite HIM integrates with existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, allowing seamless communication throughout back office functions. Managers can also integrate an active tool feature which will not allow an operator to move on until the right tools and torque have been used. This ensures that assembly has been done to the correct standards every time.

The Sempre Group offers a monthly subscription package for the Arkite HIM. Visit https://www.thesempregroup.com/ to read more about the different financial options and how you can benefit from integrating this system into your production line. Or, to speak to an expert, call 01452 632712.