What is a subassembly?
A subassembly is a workpiece that consists of several individual components and is installed in devices as a finished module.
What is sub-assembly?
Sub-assembly is the process of assembling prefabricated components into a functional end product, including mechanical, electrical, pneumatic and/or hydraulic components.
What are machine assemblies?
Machine assemblies are workpieces consisting of several individual components that are an integral part of an overall mechanical engineering system and without which the entire system would only function to a limited extent.
When do we speak of series production?
Series production refers to the production of similar products in large quantities, which are manufactured simultaneously or one after the other, whereby production is limited to a certain number of units.
What are assemblies and why are they so important?
- An assembly is a complex unit.
- It is made up of at least two parts.
- Assemblies can consist of a combination of individual parts and/or sub-assemblies, each of which forms an important part of the overall system.
- They are essential for the function of the end product in which they are installed.
Subassembly production plays a central role, as it enables the efficient assembly of subsystems or complete devices and represents an intermediate form between flow and workshop production. The efficient production of assemblies requires an in-depth understanding of the materials, machines and production quantities in order to achieve the required quality. Manufacturers of assemblies often have particular expertise in one field (e.g. coffee machines or rail vehicles).
Companies that specialise in component assembly and small series have the ability to bring components and parts together in such a way that they can be seamlessly integrated into small series production to complete the end products. The efficient utilisation of parts plays an important role here.
What advantages does assembly manufacturing offer companies?
Assembly manufacturing offers a number of advantages that go far beyond mere production. It enables
- higher uniform quality
- simplified final assembly by grouping components in an organised and efficient manner
- a flexible production method
In addition, companies that rely on subassembly production can achieve significant quality improvements in their end products. This is made possible by the high level of expertise of assembly manufacturers, their flexibility and precise work. Outsourcing assembly production to specialised providers can also increase economic efficiency and help companies to conserve their resources.
Cost reduction and storage space savings
Cost reduction and storage space savings are two of the most convincing arguments in favour of assembly manufacturing. Companies can significantly reduce their warehousing costs by outsourcing warehouse management to external service providers as part of assembly production, thereby reducing stock levels. This optimises process costs as ordering and delivery processes are simplified and the need for pre-financing is reduced.
The prefabrication of assemblies in the course of just-in-time production not only optimises storage capacities, but also reduces the storage space required. The reduction in the variety of parts, a direct consequence of subassembly production, further reduces warehousing costs. The availability of prepared assembly modules enables faster final assembly according to customer specifications, resulting in shorter delivery times and higher customer satisfaction.
Flexibility and speed to market
Flexibility and speed to market are crucial factors in today's fast-moving economic environment. Assembly manufacturing enables companies to react quickly to market demands and customer requirements without having to make extensive changes to the production process. The parallel assembly of different product variants makes it possible to remain flexible and efficient without losing time.
The challenge of responding to increasing product customisation and shorter product life cycles can be mastered thanks to the modular structure of the assemblies. It supports the rapid development and testing of individual modules. The scalability of production through module production allows rapid adaptation to market pressure and increased demand. Automated machines and systems help to shorten throughput times and thus reduce time to market.
What are the benefits of customised assembly production?
Imagine being able to manufacture your products with precision and efficiency that is tailored to your specific requirements. That's exactly what customised assembly manufacturing makes possible - only you don't have to do it yourself, we do it for you.
Companies like Antrimon impressively demonstrate how they adapt to the technical complexity and innovative functions of various industries, from electric scooters to coffee machines and rail vehicle control panels. The key to this lies in the combination of flexible manufacturing, which can handle a wide range of parts, and the interaction with our engineering and drive technology, which enable optimised configuration of the assemblies.
Planning and design
The basis of every customised assembly solution is careful planning and design. The challenge is to fulfil specific customer needs by developing a comprehensive concept that includes design, electrical planning, programming, assembly and commissioning.
This optimisation of the design of assemblies, including the selection of suitable materials and defined processes, leads to a reduction in costs and resource consumption. This is an added value that goes far beyond mere assembly and supports companies in placing their products efficiently and effectively on the market.
Planning and design are therefore the foundation for success in assembly production and critical for end customer satisfaction.
Integration of CNC machining
Some assemblies require particularly precise CNC machining. By integrating the latest CNC technologies, outstanding accuracy and efficiency can be achieved.
The integration of automation and robotics into the CNC machining process is a further step towards operational efficiency. Antrimon offers this service in co-operation with the Swiss Factory Group.
Quality assurance and control
Quality is no coincidence, but the result of integrated quality assurance techniques and detailed documentation of the manufacturing process. This is particularly important in assembly production, where tests and quality controls must be carried out to ensure high product quality from the individual part to the end product. These processes are supported by intelligent tools and real-time control systems that ensure high productivity and product quality.
Such detailed documentation and testing according to defined quality characteristics are essential to guarantee compliance with high quality standards. The ability to replace assemblies in the event of a fault without affecting the end product also contributes to a more efficient use of materials and minimises waste, which in turn supports quality control.
What are the typical challenges in assembly production?
Assembly production has many advantages, but it also brings challenges.
One of the biggest is ensuring short lead times while minimising inventory. Dependence on the capacities of a single producer can lead to higher labour and material costs and extend the duration of production. However, intelligent production planning systems can help to increase both manufacturing efficiency and responsiveness to market demands. Effective procurement of materials and resources is an important factor here.
What role do innovative technologies play in assembly production?
Innovative technologies play a decisive role in assembly production. Automated assembly systems and collaborative robotic systems, known as cobots, which work safely alongside humans, are two examples that optimise the production process. These technologies enable an increase in efficiency and a reduction in the error rate by ensuring precise and repeatable processes.
In addition, integrative software solutions and the retrofitting of machines with new components ensure improved production reliability and increased efficiency in component assembly, particularly in terms of process optimisation.
3D printing also has a significant impact on component manufacturing, as it facilitates the production of customised small parts and complex geometries while also enabling cost and time savings.
As in CNC manufacturing, Antrimon's customers also benefit from the Swiss Factory Group's network in 3D printing. Collaboration with our partners enables additional efficiencies.
Summary
Assemblies consist of several individual parts and form functional units in machines or devices. Assembly manufacturing simplifies assembly processes, increases quality, reduces storage costs and enables flexible production. ANTRIMON offers customised solutions including CNC machining, quality assurance and innovative technologies such as 3D printing and automation - ideal for series and small batches.
