The manufacturing of large, heavy parts, sometimes in small batches, has always been challenging, even with automation. Over the last decade, however, new, more flexible automation technology has been developed to enable more companies to automate their production. One such solution is the mobile robot, platforms with or without robots that are capable of transporting, processing, and measuring heavy, big parts. It is now possible to precisely maneuver mobile platforms, carrying up to 100 tons of payload. These mobile robots make it possible to process or check the quality of large parts without the need for big, complex installations.

The presentation will show how mobile platforms and robots can be used to increase the flexibility of automation projects in the manufacturing environment. Several application examples will be presented to illustrate the implementation of these technologies with focus on large and heavy part production.