HOROSYS
Smart Micro Factory revolutionizes watchmaking with the Meca500 robot
01
Overview
When Horosys, a Swiss integrator specializing in desktop automation for watchmaking, saw the ultra-compact, highly precise Meca500 robot, the idea for the Smart Micro Factory (SMF) project was born. Horosys developed the SMF concept to fulfill the automation needs of the Swiss watchmaking industry and make automation and robotics available to manufacturers producing in low volumes, with limited investments, and requiring a quick payback.
Case Study Video
Challenge
Traditionally a labor-intensive industry, the lack of skilled workers and precision requirements of the watchmaking space push Swiss manufacturers to automate. However, most industrial robots are too large and bulky to handle parts weighing just a few grams. Collaborative robots and other small non-industrial robots lack the needed high precision to handle such delicate and precise parts. Furthermore, the systems must be small enough to fit on existing workshop benches. Although custom linear XYZ stages can be considered in some applications, many require at least 5 or 6 degrees of freedom, so an articulated robot arm is necessary. The systems also need to be modular, easily programmable, and able to integrate and communicate with many other types of equipment.
02
Solution
To meet those needs, Horosys developed the Smart Micro Factory concept around the Meca500. The modules (also called stations) can be equipped with different Cognex cameras, bowl feeders, flexible feeders, presses, and other standard and custom metrology equipment. The modules can be combined for various processes to form an entire production line.
A B&R Automation IPC or a Beckhoff IPC controls the SMF. The Meca500 is controlled directly by the B&R IPC through the TCP/IP protocol or by the Beckhoff directly with the EtherCAT protocol and a standard set of commands. The user also has control access and troubleshoots the system and the robot remotely through a web server.
Take a look at this video Gimmel Rouages, a supplier of miniature components for some of the most renowned luxury watchmakers, featuring one of Horosys’ SMFs.
03
Results
Increased Product Quality
The Meca500’s unmatched precision of 0.005 mm guarantees that the whole process can meet the tight requirement 0.01 mm of positional repeatability for many processes in watchmaking.
Save Space
Save Power
Save Costs (Standardize and Add Flexibility)
A 6-axis robot is significantly more flexible than custom 3-axis XYZ systems. This means that it could work with a much greater variety of components and equipment. Therefore the systems become modular and have much greater flexibility, reducing overall costs.
04
About Horosys
Horosys is a Swiss integrator based in the Canton of Neuchâtel, the heart of the Swiss “Watch Valley” and home to some of the most famous watchmakers: Breitling, Patek Philippe, Rolex, Tissot, and others. Horosys develops ultra-compact, automated workstations for the watchmaking industry. Horosys partnered with Mecademic from the very beginning, seeing the Meca500 miniature robot as the perfect fit for desktop factory automation. The company even developed a high-end protection cover for the Meca500, called the HoroBot.
The images and video in this post are courtesy of Horosys SA.