Design And Modification Of A Multi-Station Jig For Improving Production Capacity In Pad Printing Machine

Abstract

Pad printing is a crucial process in electronics manufacturing used to transfer product information onto components with high precision. However, the use of a conventional single-station jig system often results in long cycle time, high machine idle time, and low production output due to manual handling and repositioning. This study aims to design and modify a multi-station jig system to improve production capacity on a pad printing machine. The research method uses an engineering approach, including observation of the existing system, problem identification, CAD-based design, implementation, and performance evaluation using a before-after comparison method. The results show that the implementation of the multi-station jig system successfully reduces cycle time from 28.45 seconds to 18.0 seconds per unit and increases production output up to 1,600 pieces per shift. In addition, machine idle time and handling time are significantly reduced, while jig stability improves, resulting in better alignment and consistency of printing quality. These improvements indicate that the multi-station jig system effectively enhances productivity, operational efficiency, and process reliability in the pad printing workstation without requiring major machine modifications.