To better adapt MiniTec SmartAssist to industrial requirements, MiniTec has now developed the Screwdriver Integration module. This enables screwing operations to be initiated via such systems as part of an assembly process. To do this, the control units of the screw systems being used must first be configured in MiniTec SmartAssist. Then, specific screwing operations can be integrated into assembly recipes via the editor.

During the assembly process, the assistance system requests the required assembly tools and attachments through the industrial screwdriver’s control at the appropriate step, and the operator performs the screw connections. This can involve individual screws or grouped sequences.

The results (OK / NOK) are reported back to the assistance system. Whether a result is classified as “NOK” depends on the customer’s specifications and the corresponding settings in the control unit. This could be due to exceeding a certain number of torque attempts, misaligned screws, or incorrect tool positioning. In the editor, different follow-up actions can be defined for each outcome—such as automatically restarting a screwing operation in case of an NOK, or instructing the operator to check which connection failed and consult a supervisor.

Markus Kaiser, the lead developer for MiniTec SmartAssist, emphasizes the benefits of the new module:
“The Screwdriver Integration module makes a significant contribution to quality assurance in industrial assembly processes. It also supports documentation and traceability, giving customers the ability to verify the correct execution of screwing operations in case of any claims.”