Introduction to Stellantis
Stellantis, the automotive giant formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group, has a wealthy history and legacy within the automotive industry. The company owns several notable brands, including Jeep, Ram, Chrysler, Dodge, and Fiat. With its formation, Stellantis has turn into a serious player in the worldwide automotive market.
The Virtual Reality Lab
At the guts of Stellantis’ innovation is its virtual reality lab, positioned at the corporate’s CTC complex in Auburn Hills. This lab is designed to assist the corporate make improvements for employees at its assembly line stations, in addition to cut costs. The virtual reality lab is provided with state-of-the-art technology, including a virtual reality headset, battery pack, and two "handles" with triggers to understand objects.
How the Lab Works
The lab allows Stellantis to recreate real-world scenarios, akin to the assembly line, in a virtual environment. This enables the corporate to check and refine its processes, reducing downtime and associated costs. For example, the lab was used to find out the optimal vehicle height for making underbody electrical connections on the Sterling Heights and Warren Truck assembly plants. The virtual reality technology makes it "easy to ascertain various what-if scenarios during design review," in accordance with Joe Dzwonkowski, virtual reality design review specialist.
Benefits of the Lab
The virtual reality lab has quite a few advantages, including improved ergonomics, increased efficiency, and value savings. The lab allows Stellantis to fine-tune platform heights, set "golden zones" for an assembly operator’s reach, and refine part handling techniques for greater safety and efficiency. Additionally, the lab has helped resolve issues and reduce downtime and associated costs before production begins, with the corporate citing tons of of instances where this has happened.
The Lab’s Facilities
The virtual reality lab is sized to accommodate a complete assembly line station, with a 24 feet by 20 feet "arena" where the virtual reality motion takes place. The entire room measures 40 feet by 42 feet, allowing for reviews by various engineers, supplier, and assembly plant representatives. The lab also features a 3D printer to prototype tools, which has been used to create cost-saving solutions, akin to a brand new paint tape line tool throughout the Jeep Grand Cherokee launch on the Detroit Assembly Complex – Mack plant.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Stellantis’ virtual reality lab is a key component of the corporate’s innovation strategy, enabling it to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the general manufacturing process. With its state-of-the-art technology and facilities, the lab helps Stellantis to remain ahead of the curve within the competitive automotive industry. As the corporate continues to evolve and grow, its virtual reality lab will play an increasingly necessary role in shaping its future success.
