TRA was awarded the Kruesi Spirit of Innovation at the Chattanooga Convention center by the Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce and representatives of the Kruesi family today. TRA was recognized for its innovative robotic manufacturing solution, the SuperCell.  For detailed information, pictures, and videos visit TRA's SuperCell page. 

Standard robotic work cells often include one or more robots, tooling, and positioners to index parts and tooling to the next operation. Productivity relies on minimizing idle time for robots and operators.

TRA previously developed a technology called Quick-Change that provides tooling with on-board intelligence and allows operators to change a work cell's tooling quickly and effortlessly.

For the SuperCell project, TRA developed a new breakthrough power and communication technology enabling robots to handle and exchange tooling.

Never before could tooling be placed at the operator or attached to the robot, or both and maintain 100% functionality.

This ability enabled the development of the SuperCell and the amazing benefits to manufacturing it represents without sacrificing any manufacturing capability: 95% utilization compared to 85% industry standard; 6,000sqft (70%) savings in floor space; improved part positioning; and 30% reduction in direct cost.

At the Chattanoogan (opens in new window):

http://chattanoogan.com/articles/article_126005.asp

At the Chattanooga Times Free Press (opens in new window):

http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2008/apr/16/tr-automation-wins-innovation-award/