Bolton, Ontario-based Husky Technologies, a manufacturer of injection molding systems for packaging processors, won an innovation award for a plate line automation project from a European business federation.
Husky was recognized in the process category of an award program established by the 107-year-old Luxembourg-based FEDIL in 1982 to encourage entrepreneurial creativity, innovation and research.
Husky employs about 1,000 people at its Luxembourg facility, where the project was undertaken to demonstrate the potential of Industry 4.0 using advanced robotics and cutting-edge software to transform a manufacturing process — in this case the company's plate manufacturing process.
The plates, which securely hold mold halves during the injection molding process, are produced by machining steel into desired shapes with the needed clamping surfaces, guide pillars and water channels.
Husky's project is groundbreaking in terms of innovation and economic relevance to improve production times, precision and safety, the FEDIL website says.
The project integrates three technologies into one automated system: a guided vehicle for pallet delivery to milling centers; tool loading and unloading for deep-hole drilling; and digital twin virtual models along with tool analysis software for real-time simulation and quality control.
The guided vehicle can transport up to 5 metric tons of parts on prepared pallets directly to the machine builders and the digital twin software generates a simulation of the production process of each part based on machine data, which allows for quick detection of defects.
The traceability of each tool movement on the machine means Husky can adopt a systematic approach to continuous process improvement, Laurent Huberty, Husky's manufacturing technology team manager, hot runners, says in an online FEDIL video.
"A key concept is to reduce the amount of time our operators need to spend on repetitive tasks, like transporting materials or tools, to allow them to spend more time on highly skilled complex tasks," Huberty says. "This not only reduces the operator time spent on transportation but also reduces the risk of human error and increases our traceability on the product leading to overall improved quality."
The FEDIL award is a testament to dedication to drive operational excellence, according to Huberty.
"Our plate line automation project is just the beginning, and we're excited to expand the success of this cutting-edge solution to our global network of facilities," Huberty said in a company news release.
Husky is taking automation to new heights, according to Rinas Mohammed, the company's director of global operations and industrialized tooling.
"This project is a perfect example of how Husky is combining advanced robotics and digital technology to streamline processes. By automating critical tasks, Husky has reduced production times, enhanced precision, improved safety, and freed operators from repetitive, manual tasks," Mohammed said in the release.