PNEUMATICS Pneumatic and electric actuation combined in automotive handling system IMI has developed a turnkey automation system for a major US automotive OEM, combining pneumatic and electric motion technologies to improve safety, ergonomics and production efficiency in truck bed component handling. H&P reports. loads, significantly reducing ergonomic risk and creating a safer working environment for production operators. According to IMI, the system resulted in a significant increase in production capacity. IMI’s approach began with a detailed evaluation of the OEM’s production flow, payload characteristics, available footprint and safety requirements before defining the automation strategy and engineering the integrated system around the specific handling challenge. Ron Slone, Vice President of Sales, Americas, Industrial Automation, at IMI, said: “Our focus was on creating a system that not only improved productivity but also enhanced the ergonomic aspects of the process. By minimising manual handling and improving system efficiency, we were able to make a substantial difference to the customer’s operations.” Jad Khattab, Director, Factory Automation, at IMI Detroit, added: “By combining the strengths of our local expertise in turnkey systems with the high-performance capabilities of IMI Norgren pneumatics and IMI Bahr electric actuators, we were able to deliver a solution that exceeded our client’s expectations. “The system’s ability to amplify production while optimising handling and safety is a direct result of the strong partnerships between IMI and the OEM.” Further information is available at: www.imiplc.com/industrial-automation IMI’s Industrial Automation sector has developed a turnkey solution designed to improve efficiency and safety for a major automotive OEM in the US. Seeking new ways to optimise operations, the Michigan-based company approached IMI’s team in Detroit to develop a bespoke solution for unloading and positioning the irregular, complexshaped and heavy roll-formed parts used in truck beds. Previously, the task was carried out manually, presenting safety challenges as each roll-formed truck bed component weighed up to 10 lb and measured 6in wide, 4in tall and 51.5in long. The overall goal of the project was to increase production capabilities, enhance throughput, and improve the ergonomics and safety of the handling process. Working with the customer, IMI developed a solution incorporating IMI Norgren and IMI Bahr technologies as key elements of the turnkey unloading system. Given the heavy loads, repetitive motion and complex handling involved, the system required a robust motion control solution capable of precise, highspeed operation. At the heart of the system was IMI’s custom-designed Cartesian motion control technology, enabling accurate three-axis movement for positioning and unloading the roll-formed parts onto the truck bed. Pneumatic actuation The system combined IMI Norgren pneumatic actuation for efficient movement of lighter components with IMI Bahr electric actuation for precise, controlled positioning of heavier loads. This hybrid approach balanced speed and accuracy across the full handling cycle, allowing simultaneous, controlled movements that maximised throughput by reducing cycle times and optimising material flow on the assembly line. The system also eliminated repetitive manual lifting and positioning of heavy 24 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS July/August 2026 www.hpmag.co.uk
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