FAQ
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Can transport fixtures be integrated with existing logistics and production processes?
Yes. FiXar designs transport fixtures that align with your operational requirements, including compatibility with production lines, automated handling systems, storage racks, and standard transport equipment to ensure seamless integration throughout the supply chain.
Can transport fixtures be designed for delicate or complex components?
Yes. FiXar develops transport fixtures tailored to the geometry, weight, and sensitivity of each component. Whether transporting precision-machined parts, large assemblies, or fragile products, we design solutions that provide optimal protection and support.
Can build-to-print services support low-volume as well as high-volume production?
Absolutely. FiXar supports everything from prototype and small-batch production to larger manufacturing volumes. We tailor our approach to meet your production needs while maintaining the same commitment to quality and reliability.
Can FiXar manage the complete production process?
Yes. FiXar can oversee the entire process, including procurement, manufacturing, quality control, assembly, and final delivery. We act as a reliable partner to ensure that your products are delivered on time and according to specification.
What information is required to start a build-to-print project?
To begin a build-to-print project, we typically require technical drawings, 3D CAD models, bills of materials (if applicable), quality requirements, and any specific instructions related to materials, surface treatments, testing, or assembly.
What deliverables are provided after a reverse engineering project?
Depending on your project requirements, FiXar can provide STL files, fully editable CAD models in STEP (STP) format, 2D technical drawings, and detailed documentation to support manufacturing, quality control, or further product development.
What types of parts can be reverse engineered?
FiXar can reverse engineer a wide variety of components, ranging from small precision parts to large assemblies. Our services support industries such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, construction, pharmaceuticals, and many others.
What deliverables can I expect after the measurements have been completed?
Depending on the agreed scope of work and the measurement method used, FiXar can provide a range of deliverables, including:
- A detailed 3D measurement report, including colour maps and other relevant analysis features;
- An STL file of the measured component or product;
- A STEP (STP) file and corresponding 2D drawings of the measured product for further engineering or manufacturing purposes.
All deliverables are tailored to meet the specific requirements of your project.
Can you perform measurements on-site at our facility?
Yes. Most of our measurement equipment is portable and allows us to carry out inspections directly at your facility, minimizing downtime and eliminating the need to transport large or critical components to an external laboratory.
How do assembly fixtures contribute to quality control?
Assembly fixtures help maintain precise positioning and alignment of components, reducing variation caused by manual handling. They can also incorporate poka-yoke (error-proofing) features, sensors, or inspection checkpoints to detect incorrect assembly and ensure that quality standards are consistently met.
Can assembly fixtures be integrated into automated production lines?
Yes. Assembly fixtures can be designed for both manual and automated environments. They can be integrated with robots, conveyors, vision systems, and other automation technologies to support high-volume production while maintaining accuracy and consistency.
How long does it take to design and manufacture an assembly fixture?
The lead time depends on the complexity of the fixture, the number of components involved, and the required level of validation. Simple fixtures can often be delivered within a few weeks, while more advanced or automated solutions may require a longer development period.
Can assembly fixtures be adapted to different product variants?
Yes. Depending on the production requirements, assembly fixtures can be designed as dedicated fixtures for a single product or as flexible solutions that accommodate multiple variants through adjustable components, interchangeable tooling, or modular designs.
What are the benefits of using assembly fixtures?
Assembly fixtures improve repeatability and product quality by ensuring that parts are assembled in the correct position every time. They can also reduce cycle times, minimize operator fatigue, enhance workplace safety, and lower production costs by preventing rework and scrap.
Does FiXar only work for the automotive and aerospace industry?
No, FiXar is not limited to the automotive and aerospace industries. While we have extensive experience and a strong track record in both sectors, our expertise also extends to the pharmaceutical, steel, construction, retail, and food industries.
Our solid automotive background has shaped a highly professional and structured way of working, enabling us to bring the same level of quality, efficiency, and commitment to every industry we serve.
Can FiXar make a budget quotation?
Yes. Even when the project specifications are not yet fully defined, FiXar can prepare a budget offer based on the information currently available. This budget offer can be revised at a later stage once additional project details, documentation, or technical specifications are provided.
What information does FiXar require to make a quotation?
Most projects start with the following documentation:
- CAD files of the product for which the tooling, fixture, or automation is required
- 2D and/or 3D measurement documentation, especially for fixture projects
- The customer specification sheet or project requirements
The more information you can provide, the more detailed and accurate our quotation can be.
If no documentation is available yet, FiXar can visit your facility to review the application together and define the project requirements on-site.
Does FiXar operate internationally?
Yes. FiXar delivers projects for clients both locally and internationally. We are used to working according to international standards and integrating systems into existing production environments worldwide.
Does FiXar include training in the projects?
Yes. FiXar provides training for both operators and maintenance personnel.
The training approach and the number of training sessions are agreed together with the customer, based on the project scope, equipment complexity, and the customer’s specific requirements.
What is the difference between a checking and a measurement fixture?
Is robot automation always cost-effective?
Cost-effectiveness depends on volume, repeatability and quality requirements. In processes with high repetition, ergonomic load or quality-critical operations, robotics typically delivers clear productivity and quality gains.
Can robot stations be expanded later?
Yes. Robot cells are typically modular, allowing additional tooling, vision systems, extra robots or process steps to be added over time.
What happens in case of a failure?
Robot stations include clear diagnostics via the HMI. If needed, FiXar provides support through remote assistance or on-site intervention to minimise downtime.
How much maintenance does a robot cell require?
Robot cells are designed for low maintenance. Preventive maintenance typically includes tooling inspection, calibration checks and periodic software updates.
Can robot stations be integrated into existing production lines?
Yes. Robot stations can be fully integrated into existing PLC architectures, safety chains and production systems. They can also be connected to MES systems for traceability and data logging.
How is safety ensured in a robot station?
For industrial robots, safety is ensured through physical guarding, light curtains and safety PLCs in line with PL/SIL principles. For cobots, safety is achieved through force and speed monitoring, combined with risk assessments according to standards such as ISO 10218 and ISO 13849.
Can one robot handle multiple product variants?
Yes. Through smart programming, vision integration or automatic tool changers, a single robot cell can support multiple product variants without complex changeovers.
How do you determine which robot is suitable?
We analyse the full process, including payload, reach, accuracy, cycle time, environmental conditions and system integration. Based on this, we select the most appropriate robot platform and tooling.
Which robots does FiXar use?
FiXar has experience with various robot platforms, including KUKA, ABB, Fanuc, Techman cobots and Universal Robots (UR). The selection depends on payload, accuracy, cycle time and integration requirements.
What is the difference between a robot and a cobot?
An industrial robot typically operates in a safeguarded cell with high speed and payload. A cobot (collaborative robot) is designed to safely interact with operators through force and speed limitations. The choice depends on cycle time, safety requirements and the application.
Do you provide support after delivery?
Yes. FiXar remains involved after delivery through start-up support, optimisation, technical assistance and maintenance advice. This ensures that the industrial automation system continues to perform reliably throughout its lifecycle.
Can you integrate vision and measurement systems?
Yes. FiXar integrates vision and measurement systems when required for process control, quality verification or positioning. These systems are connected to the automation and PLC architecture for fully automated inspection and control.
How are traceability and data logging implemented?
Traceability and data logging are integrated through data exchange with existing systems, such as MES platforms. This allows production data, process parameters and quality information to be automatically recorded and monitored.
Can an automation system handle multiple product variants?
Yes. We design systems with variant production in mind. Through smart programming, modular tooling or vision integration, automation stations can handle multiple product variants without complex changeovers.
Is safety integrated according to PL/SIL standards?
Yes. Safety is integrated from the design phase in accordance with applicable standards. Depending on the application, we use safety PLCs, light curtains, physical guarding and risk assessments based on PL/SIL principles.
Can you integrate automation into existing production lines or MES systems?
Yes. FiXar integrates industrial automation systems into both new installations and existing production lines. We align with existing PLC architectures and, where required, connect to MES systems for data logging, traceability and production monitoring.
Which PLC and control platforms do you support?
FiXar primarily works with Siemens TIA Portal for PLC-based industrial automation. This platform enables the development of reliable, maintainable automation software and smooth integration into existing production environments.
What does industrial automation at FiXar include?
FiXar delivers integrated industrial automation systems, from analysis and concept engineering to build, validation and post-delivery support. We combine mechanics, automation and software into stable systems that perform reliably in serial production environments.
Which PLC platform does FiXar use for automation?
FiXar primarily works with Siemens TIA Portal for PLC automation, depending on the project requirements.
Does FiXar also integrate other robot platforms?
Absolutely. FiXar is open to other platforms when required. We always select the technology that best matches your process, payload and cycle time.
Which types of robots has FiXar integrated?
FiXar has experience with a wide range of industrial robots and cobots, including KUKA, ABB, Fanuc, Techman cobots and Universal Robots (UR). Depending on the application, we select the platform that best fits the required accuracy, payload and cycle time.
Does FiXar support projects from concept to delivery?
Yes. FiXar delivers projects from concept and engineering to production, assembly, FAT/SAT and post-delivery support. Thanks to our in-house capabilities, the entire process is managed within one organisation.
Which CAD software does FiXar use?
Our engineering teams primarily work with CATIA and SolidWorks for the design of automation systems, fixtures and tooling.
Is FiXar ISO certified?
Absolutely. FiXar has been ISO 9001 certified since 2011. This ensures a structured approach, strict quality control and continuous process improvement.
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