The development of a generic flexible assembly system involves the design, selection and integration of a number of different mechanical systems in order to develop an assembly system, which is capable of assembling a wide variety of products having an unknown specification. A specific system configuration being dependent on a variety of factors such as, product size, weight, component insertion direction, and manipulator geometry. This paper examines each of the factors that should be considered when designing a generic flexible assembly system and presents a novel generic flexible assembly system design.

No abstract

Selecting the most appropriate assembly system can offer enormous benefits in terms of product quality, cost reduction and manufacturing productivity. However, selecting the right system for a product depends on a large number of factors and is not a simple problem. Its solution requires considerable expertise and there is a lack of systematic approaches to support decision making in this area. The paper presents a strategy for selecting assembly systems for a product based on technological and economic considerations, including component and assembly design, component variability and production conditions. Application of the strategy is illustrated through the use of a number of industrial case studies across a range of business sectors. The case study reference data are provided in a common format to enable businesses to compare in the selection process.

One of the first steps in designing a flexible assembly system is the selection of an appropriate manipulator. There are a number of different manipulator configurations which can be chosen depending on a variety of factors such as the assembly workspace layout, product size, weight, and component insertion direction.A number of methodologies have been written to help the selection of a manipulator for process cells. However, little work exists to aid the machine designer in the selection of an appropriate manipulator for flexible assembly. This paper examines the factors which affect this process. Electronic accessThe research register for this journal is available at

A compliance device combining passive and active compliance has been tested and developed for an anthropomorphic robot for use during assembly operations. The device has the ability to correct for angular and lateral misalignments between mating parts, resulting in no equipment or part damage. The method of control, the design features of the device and the modifications made to enable the device to be used by an anthropomorphic robot are described and future modifications which will enable the device to operate more effectively are discussed.