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Is there a difference between Gap Equalization and Gap Optimization?
Absolutely, although many times the terms are used interchangeably. Understanding the differences between the two options and choosing the correct solution is vital when implementing your automated assembly strategies. After all, it’s only a solution if it truly solves your problem.
When would I benefit from using a Perceptron Gap Equalization Solution?
Gap Equalization is the best solution when you are implementing a relatively straightforward assembly application and a limited number of parts are interacting. Common examples are glass decking and roof load applications; instances where a single panel is being inserted into a single opening. However, even within the constraints of a Gap Equalization solution there are varying levels of complexity.
- Glass Decking: For example, at first glance, it may seem as though you could successfully implement an automated glass decking solution by simply placing all of your focus on a single goal: equalizing the gaps on both sides of the windshield. While equalizing the gaps may be your primary concern, it is also of key importance to account for optimal flushing of the panel, as well as proper alignment of the glass to the vehicle header. A Perceptron Gap Equalization solution will provide you the ability to place top priority on creating identical gaps, while at the same time allowing you to make subtle, but crucial, adjustments to other key areas of interest.
- Roof Load: Another example is a typical roof load application. The primary goal is to equalize the gaps between the roof and body along the entire length of the vehicle. But, also of legitimate concern is creating the proper flush results and properly aligning the roof panel to the front or rear header. A Perceptron Gap Equalization system will allow you to properly prioritize any number of important goals and will offer you the most complete, powerful solution.
When would I benefit from using a Perceptron Gap Optimization Solution?
Relatively more complex applications, where a larger number of parts need to be successfully assembled, require a solution geared toward Gap Optimization. A perfect example is vehicle closure load, where multiple panels are automatically loaded onto a single vehicle body. In instances such as this, many goals must be properly reconciled before the project can be considered a success:
- Proper gap and flush between the quarter panel and the rear door
- Proper gap and flush between the rear door and the front door
- Proper gap and flush between the front door and the fender
- Consistent gaps along the entire length of the vehicle
- Proper alignment of the character-lines along the entire length of the vehicle
- Proper gap and flush between the fender and hood and front fascia
- Proper cross-car alignment of the fender and front fascia
You would fall considerably short of success were you to try to achieve all of the aforementioned goals using a solution that placed all of its focus purely on gap measurements.
A Perceptron Gap Optimization system leverages our many years of experience in dimensional gauging to offer a solution build entirely around your process. Our proprietary Visual Fixturing techniques and comprehensive suite of 3D algorithms create a solution that takes into consideration (among other things): the actual measured size of the closure panels (doors, fenders, fascia, and hood), the actual measured length of the vehicle body, the inconsistencies and variation from one side of the vehicle to the other, optimized positioning of character-lines, etc. In effect, we consider the entire problem to deliver a comprehensive solution.
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Perceptron has the tools and the experience required to properly do the job. Don’t settle for anything less than the best possible solution. Please contact one of our representatives today at
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for more information on how to successfully deploy a Perceptron Automated Assembly Solution.
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