Test Equipment

Function volume of test benches for steerings

On customized assembly systems for steerings by Kiener, passenger car and truck steerings of all types are assembled in semi-automatic and fully automatic assembly sequences. Within these assembly sequences, the single steerings must be tested fully automatically and set in case of necessity. The corresponding steering is connected mechanically and electrically. Subsequently, a test program is realized. During this test program, the most different parameters at the steering are checked and set if required. The result of every test sequence is displayed on a screen in the form of curves, diagrams and numerical values. At the end of the test sequence, the program decides whether the steering is further machined as good or not good.

 

Function volume of test benches for automobile pumps

On customized assembly systems for automobile pumps, here especially supply pumps for hydraulic servo steerings, such sub-assemblies are produced in a great variety in semi-automatic and fully automatic assembly sequences. At several positions of the production sequence, the supply pumps are first configured type-specific by electronic communication and then subjected to several function tests. For this purpose, the supply pumps must also be filled with hydraulic liquid and be drained again after completion of tests. In the tests it is particularly checked whether all required functions are met and whether performance features are adhered to. Apart from the function checks, in addition very special measurements are realized which check the respect of the max. admissible noise generation.

 

Function volume of pneumatic leak test benches

Different components which are assembled on KIENER assembly systems in semi-automatic and fully automatic assembly sequences have to be tested for tightness during or at the end of the assembly sequence as complete sub-assembly. Here either the difference pressure process or the mass flow process is used. Depending on the requirement, the test is done by overpressure or vacuum. In both processes, the sub-assembly is connected to an air or gas line, and either air or gas is pumped into the sub-assembly, or the air present is sucked off from the sub-assembly until the so-called test pressure is reached. Depending on the process, it is checked whether the test pressure increases, decreases or remains unchanged. The result of every test is displayed on a screen in the form of curves, diagrams and numerical values. Subsequently, a decision is made via the program whether this sub-assembly can be declared as good or bad.

 

Application range

The application range of test benches is everywhere ….

–  where sub-assemblies are assembled from single parts and where these have to be tested for function or tightness during assembly or at the end of the assembly sequence.

–  where for a correct function first corresponding settings must be made, the results of which have to be checked.

 

Product features

–  Customized testing and setting equipment for components of any type

–  (Typical) processes: measuring and setting of dimensions / clearances / tensions, measuring and setting of forces, pressure control

–  The cycle times result from the parameters to be tested.

–  Sequences: manual, partially automatic and fully automatic

–  Manual workplaces or fully automatic stations

 

Function principle

The components and/or sub-assemblies are placed into component-dedicated supports either directly in the station or on a component pallet and are fed to the process stations manually or by a component carrier transfer system.  Loading either manual or by an automatic handling system. The stations can also be loaded and unloaded automatically, e.g. by a robot. Depending on the test to be realized, in the station the components and/or the sub-assembly are either clamped manually or automatically and contacted by the corresponding test units. Subsequently the test sequence is realized, in most cases fully automatically. In stations where only certain parameters are to be checked, e.g. as in the leak test, there is only a control whether the currently present parameters at this component correspond to the specified parameters. In stations where certain parameters have to be checked and possibly also set, corresponding units are used by which e.g. dimensions are measured, screws are turned or components are pulled and subsequently screwed in order to tension for example a belt.  Subsequently there is a cross check whether the parameters set correspond to the specified parameters. The results of these tests are displayed on screens in different representations. At the end of the test, the test units are removed, either manually or automatically. Before the component and/or the sub-assembly leaves the station, either automatically or manually, there is a declaration whether this component or sub-assembly has passed the test as good or bad. Depending on this declaration, the further sequence for this component and/or sub-assembly is realized. Usually, at last the major actual values of tests are filed in a data management system.

 

Structure

The customized test and setting stations are planned, designed and supplied as turnkey solution by KIENER. The stations are realized as far as possible with modular components from our own manufacture in the requested automation degree. These can be designed flexibly for different product variants of the same product families. In order to reach the highest possible precision in measuring test and setting processes, the stations are realized very stable for this purpose. Loading, linkage and handling, also with robots, the number and the processes of the stations as well as controls are realized according to customer’s requests.

 

Testing machines for applications for the quality evaluation of assembly processes and part checks as well as absolute measuring systems for endurance test benches.

Automatic evaluation of test results with statistics, bar code assignment, coupling to master computer and many others.

– Test benches for steerings / steering function test machines

– Test benches for automobile pumps / test benches for water pumps

– Pneumatic leak test units

– Crack detection systems / other test systems for several test processes

 

• Stand-alone or integrated units for the surveillance of assembly processes, quality control and measuring and checking of part dimensions
• Part-specific absolute measuring systems such as continuous operation test benches (e.g. length and force – measurement, tightness, crack and electr. checks …)
• Automatic evaluation of test results with statistics, bar code assignment, interface to master computer etc.