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Driving Efficiency in Wire Harness Manufacturing

Q5D is pioneering the full automation of wire harness manufacture. Their robots and software translate designs into products digitally retaining established components wherever possible. Their automated systems route, protect and terminate wires to create complete wiring harnesses. The wiring can be integrated onto almost any 3D surface or laid out as a separate component. Minimal fixturing means very high design flexibility. The result is precise and repeatable, reduces labour by 80% or more and massively reduces factory footprint. This lowers cost, shortens supply chains and improves quality.

 

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Business Challenges

Q5D faced challenges in automating wire harness manufacturing, particularly needing a workflow to place wires onto a 3D surface in CAD and convert this data into G-Code for their motion platform. They trialed various CAM solutions and found Siemens NX CAM and multi-axis deposition as the most mature options for their needs. This decision also led to transitioning from a competing CAD solution entirely into Siemens NX.

Keys to Success

The partnership between Q5D and Emixa has been instrumental in driving innovation and efficiency in wire harness manufacturing. A key success factor was the adoption of Siemens NX CAM and multi-axis deposition, which provided advanced toolpath programming functions for additive manufacturing. This transition enabled Q5D to replace a competing CAD solution and streamline operations effectively.

Emixa’s support was critical in this journey. Their collaboration helped Q5D create a digital twin of their machine, aiding in simulation and toolpath planning. The development of a bespoke CAD tool allowed for rapid and accurate design of complex wiring harnesses across 3D surfaces, significantly enhancing productivity. This seamless integration of software and hardware has positioned Q5D to deliver high-value projects efficiently and grow their market presence.

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Results

Q5D has achieved remarkable results through the integration of Siemens software, demonstrating tangible improvements across their operations. Assembly times have been reduced from four months to just three weeks, while design and redesign times for wiring looms have decreased by more than 70%. These efficiencies have enabled Q5D to cut cycle times by 50% and save 60% in model preparation time.

These operational advancements have translated into commercial success. Q5D has won three new clients and built a reputation for delivering high-quality, innovative solutions quickly. The Siemens software environment has provided Q5D with the tools to prove the value of their unique technology, streamline workflows, and support their growth trajectory. With the continued backing of Emixa and Siemens, Q5D is well-positioned for sustained success and industry leadership.

 

 

 

 

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Siemens software has cut design and redesign time of wiring looms by more than 70%

Using Siemens CAD CAM and file sharing tools we have been able to quickly design, manage and deliver a broad range of capital products and demonstration parts which can be manufactured using our unique products. With the help of Emixa and the power and harmonious digital environment provided by Siemens software our start-up hardware technology company is now customer rich and moving quickly on a path to success - appreciated very much by our investors and ensuring continued growth.

 

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Peter Todd

Marketing Lead, Q5D

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