In the heart of the industrial landscape, a new chapter was about to unfold for EP Equipment, a global powerhouse in the world of material handling equipment manufacturing. As the curtain was lifted, the world caught a glimpse of a remarkable facility that embodied the company’s commitment to the Industry 4.0 revolution. This factory was more than just a production line; it was a validation of the relentless pursuit of innovation and the seamless integration of technologies.
In this modern factory with an annual production capacity of 300,000 vehicles, let’s uncover how automated robots and digital technologies revolutionize manufacturing.
Automation Technology at the Core
EP’s lithium-ion workshop is crucial for making lithium batteries at this plant. The workshop has a 3.5GWh capacity and produces batteries with long lifespans and quick charging. These batteries include EP’s independent design – Battery Management System (BMS) and need no maintenance, showing EP’s lead in using lithium-ion batteries in material handling equipment. EP also uses a four-axis robot and 3 six-axis robots to enhance the automatic intelligent assembly, intelligent testing and to maximize the quality of the battery to ensure the reliability and stability.
Intelligent Automated Vehicles: X-Movers
EP’s commitment to intelligent manufacturing is exemplified by the utilization of X-Movers, a fleet of XPG/RPG handling robots designed for seamless material transportation within the production facilities. These X-Movers, equipped with laser navigation systems, perform great in efficiently moving materials between floors and production lines. By integrating these intelligent movers into their manufacturing processes, EP ensures a streamlined workflow, minimizing delays and maximizing productivity. When This strategic deployment of intelligent robotics underscores EP’s dedication to remaining at the forefront of manufacturing innovation.
DAS: Digital Autonomous System
The factory utilizes EP’s Digital Autonomous System (DAS) which integrates with their ERP system to manage material storage locations, inventory and handling automation. The XPG/RPG X-mover models use the DAS to autonomously transport materials between floors and production lines.
In the paint shop distribution center, X-movers with the DAS identify incoming materials by code scanning and weighing to update storage locations. The DAS tracks frame storage locations and commands the trucks to retrieve required parts for assembly lines. X-movers stack frames in distributed warehouses during non-operating hours based on DAS scheduling. The DAS manages distributed storage of large and small parts, with robots locating parts using identification codes.
At the distribution center, industrial cameras work with the DAS to direct movers for unloading and material handling tasks. The integrated DAS system enables EP to stop compromising each element of the production and build on competitive production strength.
Welding and Painting: Automation Excellence
Welding, the most critical process in the product structure, are emphasized greatly by EP. The welding shop within the factory stands as a pinnacle of automated manufacturing processes. Equipped with fully automated welding lines capable of producing 35 sets per shift while reducing manual labor requirements by 75%, EP has set a new industry standard for efficiency and productivity. Spanning an impressive 20,000 square meters, the paint shop is another area where automation glows. The entire painting process, from shot blasting to inspection, is completed with automated digital control. This not only enhances the surface quality and durability of the forklifts but also ensures optimal performance.
Entering a New Era of Manufacturing
The Anji Factory North District stands as a beacon of EP Equipment’s vision for the future of manufacturing. Visitors are captivated by the precision, efficiency, and technological prowess that permeate every corner of the factory. Here, the boundaries between human and machine blur, creating a harmonious progress together. This achievement not only marks a significant milestone for EP Equipment but also serves as an inspiration for the entire industry. The future of manufacturing has arrived, and EP has paved its way boldly.