Denso Japan prepares to distribute highly efficient factory automation (FA) system so called “Lean Automation Package.” The first distribution is expected to be by the end of the year at the earliest. In this first phase, the Denso FA system was designed to be compatible with picking robots, conveyors and transport robots. To solve the problem of staff deficiency, Denso has developed the system by integrating all of its knowledge in automotive parts manufacturing process design and administration.   

Previously, Denso has been utilizing a small-sized high speed transport robot “D-Depot” and a transport robot “D-Carry” in its plant. After the evaluation of the performances, Denso will then make a decision whether to embark on distributing the system to other companies. However, no report is shown about the plant or the manufacturing process that these two robots were placed in. 

The small transport robot D-Depot was developed by Denso in collaboration with Toyohashi University of Technology. Its batteries can be charged wirelessly; therefore, it can operate 24/7 without downtime. Denso is planning to distribute it to parts manufacturers and any manufacturers that need to operate around the clock. In addition, D-Carry was designed to transport the parts that are still in the production process. Therefore, it was designed to autonomously operate along with high safety. Currently, it is still in the process of development to be compatible with other plants and their IoT system. 

It is noted that Denso has positioned its FA business as important as its automation technology and electric vehicle businesses. In April 2017, the FA department was founded to be ready for the company’s expansion in the future. Just in April 2018, Denso was trusted by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) to lead the showcase of lean automation and to collaborate with the Ministry of Industry of Thailand to start human resource development projects such as FA-related initiatives.