From time to time, we sit down with a Designetics innovator to talk about his or her career as well as topics relevant to the fluid applications industry. This month: Senior Plastics Engineer Billy Hesser.

When I think about the last 12 months, the first feeling that comes to mind is gratitude. I suppose, at this point, we’re all joking about “turning the page” and moving past this difficult and tumultuous year. I know I definitely have those feelings. But most importantly, I’m reflecting on the positive aspects…and for those I remain eternally grateful.

At Designetics, we focus on solutions, not products. And sometimes, that means pivoting from our core competency of fluid application to solve an important problem – but one that isn’t related to fluid application – for a client. Here’s a story of just how flexible and entrepreneurial our team is, and how this pivoting mindset is helping to keep front-line workers, and the general public, safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

For precise, consistent fluid application, holding a constant pressure between the fluid applicator and the substrate is key. But this can pose a challenge for even sophisticated automation systems, because any time the applicator changes position – as a result, for example, of part deviations that cause inconsistent perpendicularity between the applicator and the substrate – the pressure between the applicator and the substrate will vary.

This is where Designetics’ Precision Air Compliance comes into play. The Precision Air Compliance is an end-of-arm tool that can be used on a robot or a stationary machine to ensure constant pressure between the applicator and the substrate, regardless of part deviations or changes in the applicator’s position. It works by using air bearings with a pressure differential to create a downward pressure on the applicator. A float ensures that the applicator “rides along” any variations in the substrate, always maintaining constant pressure between the applicator and the substrate, so fluid delivery is consistent and reliable.

The desired pressure is set via regulators, which can be mounted on the Precision Air Compliance unit or elsewhere on the machine or in the work cell.

Automation offers manufacturers a number of benefits, including increased productivity, higher quality output, and lower costs – especially for processes that are repetitive, dangerous, or difficult. However, for smaller manufacturers or those whose workflow or product mix changes frequently, fully automated systems may not be feasible due to high upfront costs, lack of training resources, or even limited physical space. But with semi-automated fluid application systems from Designetics, manufacturers can realize many of the benefits of fully automated systems without a significant investment in time and resources.