D.2 Types of Joining Processes

Joining Processes can be classified in two different ways as given below.

“Joining program” is an atomic process to perform a joining operation.

“Combined process” is a group of joining processes to perform combination of various sub-processes.

D.2.1 Joining Program or Atomic Process

Joining program is the lowest level of description to perform a specific joint where it is autonomously managed by the system.

Example: It is executed from the trigger press until the joining operation is completed.

A “single result” is generated for each execution of a joining program.

D.2.2 Combined Process

On the most abstract level, everything, except the atomic process, is just grouping operations together in different ways in many different layers when assembling a product. This requires a flexible model for different customer needs with respect to process control.

A combined process can be any of the following:

A “Job” is a collection of sub-processes which could also include a sub-job.

A “Batch Process” is a “Job” where all the operations are atomic and use the same joining program, and the operations are executed sequentially.

Example: The process of sequential assembly of two or more joints using the same program.

A “Synchronized Process (Sync)” is a “Job” where all the operations are executed in parallel by separate tools (spindles).

Example: In a fixtured system which consists of multiple spindles, the PLC sends a synchronized process to the Joining Process Controller to manage which spindles should run. When the execution is completed, then a combined result is sent back to the PLC.

A “Stitching Process” is a “Job” where several “Synchronized Processes” are done in a sequence.