Ford Selects Perceptron Systems to Achieve Quality Goals on Two New Vehicle Programs
PLYMOUTH, Mich., July 30 -- Perceptron, Inc. today announced its in-line process improvement systems have been chosen by Ford Motor Company to help the company achieve its quality goals for two new 2003/2004 vehicle programs at four plant locations.
Installation of these new systems began during the third calendar quarter of 2002 and will continue through September 2003.
Perceptron's AutoGuide(TM) robot guidance systems will enable automated roof loading and seam sealing processes. A combination of fixed and flexible AutoGauge(TM) dimensional measurement systems will be used to provide Ford the manufacturing measurement flexibility it requires, while maintaining high line rates.
Dearborn Truck Plant will use the new AutoGauge systems and the AutoGuide systems for the new F-150 truck. Multiple Perceptron AutoGauge systems have been installed at plants in Norfolk, VA, and Kansas City, MO where the new F- 150 is produced. In addition, the 2003 model Freestar body shop in Oakville, Ontario received eight new Perceptron AutoGauge systems.
Bill Corriveau, Perceptron senior vice president said, "The purchase of these systems for the four plants building these key vehicles demonstrates Ford's commitment to quality improvement and manufacturing flexibility. These processes provide Ford with the capability to produce multiple models on the same line."
About AutoGauge(TM) and AutoGuide(TM)
AutoGauge in-process measurement stations use non-contact laser sensors to measure dimensional characteristics on 100% of the vehicles produced on the line. The measurement data are stored in the system controller and are remotely accessible via web browser for use in quality control, process variation reduction and process improvement. AutoGauge systems may be comprised of both fixed and flexible sensor systems. For fixed sensor systems, multiple sensors are attached to a mounting structure and aimed at specific points on the part or assembly. Flexible measurement systems add the mobility of standard industrial robots, which can be programmed to position the sensor to measure multiple points inside and on the surface of the parts and assemblies. Flexible AutoGauge systems are often programmed to measure points on several different body styles that are produced on the same line.
AutoGuide systems utilize laser sensor technology to guide robots so they can perform precise operations such as glass decking, closure panel insertion, and roof loading, among others. These systems account for the variability of vehicle position in the assembly line by providing precision offsets to the robots. They also free factory workers from having to perform tedious, difficult, and injury-prone tasks.
AutoGauge systems are built upon Perceptron's new IPNet(R) platform, which provides automatic alarming capabilities and web-based reporting to help manufacturers reduce process variation, determine the root causes of problems, and implement process improvements.
About Perceptron
Perceptron produces information-based process improvement solutions for industry as well as technology components for non-contact measurement and inspection applications. Automotive and manufacturing companies throughout the world rely on Perceptron's process management solutions to help them improve quality, shorten product launch times.
Headquartered in Plymouth, MI, Perceptron has approximately 214 employees worldwide, with facilities in the United States, Germany, Spain, France, Brazil, and Japan. For more information, please visit www.perceptron.com .