Approaches for flexibility in the future automobile body shop: results of a comprehensive cross-industry study

Abstract

The automobile body shop is currently facing an accelerating process of change caused by shorter product life-cycles, increasing customization and the co-existence of electric and combustion engine vehicles. High automation and rigid production systems prevent cost-efficient responses to changing boundary conditions. This paper presents the results of a comprehensive study across the automobile industry, analyzing obstacles and approaches to handle the challenges faced. In particular, an approach for a fixtureless body shop, increasing flexibility and reducing costs, is described. The approach is based on part-integrated fixture-functions, enabling fixtureless assembly and joining of the body parts.