Successful Assembly Automation

This book describes manufacturing theory, general assembly priniples, automated assembly processes, product design for efficient assembly, component feeding, inspection and measurement, control systems, machine design considerations, debugging, checkout, start up, and miscellaneous tips. Technical people will learn equipment design features and project management methods that will improve the production results of an assembly system. The business person will learn how to maximize the strategic benefits from a new automation project as well as minimize risks and improve the competitiveness of their business.

Dean A. Shafer has 35 years of experience in the development and design of manufacturing systems and equipment. He is currently an engineering manager at 3M Company in St. Paul, Minnesota. Mr. Shafer received a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of Minnesota in 1963 and has been a registered professional engineer since 1969. Mr. Shafer has worked with most of the manufacturing processes used for producing the company's many and varied products. His experience includes testing, coating, extruding, injection molding, nonwoven materials, fluid handling, converting, packaging, and automated assembly.