What is the Best Way to Increase Efficiency in Precision Assembly?

Assembly of high precision products is often done manually. The main reasons are the complexity of automation and the production volumes that often remain small to medium. Watches, medical devices and sensors are some examples of products requiring high precision assembly: often expensive products with high margins. It is interesting to notice that achieving higher assembly yield allows for relative quick pay-back of equipment. This is also the reason why western European countries remain competitive in this field. In this paper, the important points to remember when selecting a solution to efficiently assist operators in their assembly tasks are highlighted. Good assistance should lead to higher yields, higher throughputs and better quality. One should take into account assembly processes and their difficulties, as well as production volume and economic profitability.