Coherix, a leading technology company, has recently unveiled a groundbreaking innovation in the field of adhesive application monitoring. Engineers at Coherix have developed a cutting-edge technology that allows for the precise tracking and adjustment of adhesives and sealants used in the manufacturing of essential automotive, medical, and consumer-electronics products. This new technology is set to revolutionize the way adhesives are applied in the production of small, yet crucial assemblies found in cell phones, computers, medical devices, automotive electronic-control modules, and various other electronic devices.
The company’s 3D laser-based, computer-vision systems are capable of monitoring the application of adhesive beads with unprecedented accuracy. These systems can track adhesive beads as small as two human hairs in width at speeds ranging from 400 to 1,000 times per second. This level of precision far surpasses the capabilities of traditional 2D systems currently in use in the industry.
When combined with Coherix’s adaptive process-control software, the new Coherix 3D Mini™ eliminates the need for manual inspection work, reduces the number of failed parts, and results in significant adhesive-cost savings. This innovative technology ensures that every part meets specification by monitoring and adjusting the application of adhesives in real-time.
According to Coherix President Juergen Dennig, the global market for adhesive-dispensing systems equipped with adaptive process-control technology for small automotive, medical, and consumer electronics components is substantial, totaling over 300 million dollars annually. By implementing the Coherix 3D Mini system, manufacturers can reduce assembly-line operating costs by up to 20 percent. In a recent beta test, a major manufacturer of electronic-control units estimated an annual savings of up to $160,000 in operating costs with the installation of eight 3D Coherix sensors on just one assembly line.
Dennig emphasizes that the Coherix 3D Mini system with adaptive process control eliminates the need for additional inspection stations, leading to increased production volume and significant labor- and material-cost savings. The production of Coherix 3D Mini is already underway at Coherix facilities in Ann Arbor, with annual unit sales expected to reach 3,000 or more within the next 4-5 years. This growth projection may also lead to the establishment of a new North American assembly plant for Coherix products in the near future.
One of the key advantages of the Coherix 3D Mini system is its ease of use. Less than two days of onsite training is required for assembly-line and quality-control employees to operate the system effectively. Coherix also promises continued support with remote assistance, training, and advice whenever needed.
The development of the Coherix 3D Mini system was the result of over five years of design, development, and pre-production testing by Coherix engineers and software programmers. Dennig highlights that this laser-based 3D adaptive-process-control system is the first of its kind available for use by the automotive, medical, and electronics industries. He anticipates that it could be years before a truly competitive product emerges in the market.
Looking ahead, Dennig identifies China as the largest potential market for Coherix 3D Mini, followed by Europe and North America. With China’s rapid expansion in the production of electric vehicles and electronic products, the demand for this new technology is expected to be significant. Europe, with its concentration of dispensing and robotics companies, also presents a lucrative market opportunity. In North America, Mexico is emerging as an attractive market as well.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024, Coherix has established itself as a pioneer in the development of 3D-enabled adaptive-process-control technology. The company’s APC software proactively controls the application of adhesives and sealants on assembly lines, preventing defects, increasing throughput, and maximizing performance. Coherix provides high-performance adhesive- and sealant-dispensing inspection systems to global OEMs, tier-one suppliers, line builders, dispensing-equipment companies, and vision-system integrators across various industries.
Major customers of Coherix include prominent automotive manufacturers such as BYD, BMW, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Toyota, and Volkswagen, among others. These companies rely on Coherix’s innovative technology to ensure the quality and efficiency of their production processes.
For more information on Coherix and their groundbreaking technology, visit their website at www.coherix.com. With their commitment to innovation and excellence, Coherix continues to lead the way in advancing adhesive application monitoring technology for the automotive, medical, and electronics industries.