As the automation workflow expands, I’ve begun development of the Deassembly Station—also referred to as the Dismantle Station. This unit plays a key role in handling excess or unused workpieces from the Sorting Station, providing a path for automated recycling by separating the lids and bases of workpieces and placing them into individual bins.

At this point, the station is operational in a simplified form, collecting and binning the base of each workpiece. Later, once the lid-handling issue in the Pick and Place Station is resolved, this station will evolve into a whole two-phase deassembly cell.

Component Strategy

This station was assembled using pre-existing components from a different MPS station. Actuators, sliders, stackers, sensors, and even the gripper system were repurposed, helping reduce design time. The only newly modelled components were the two collection bins, each designated to receive either a lid or a base.

This reuse strategy accelerated the setup, allowing me to focus more on programming and simulation logic than on mechanical modelling.

Current Logic

The sequence was written in SCL (Structured Control Language) in TIA Portal, and manages suction, motion, and part transfer as follows:

Step 0 – Initialisation

All systems are reset:

• The base is set to MID position (Idle).

• Stackers and sliders retracted.

• The conveyor belt is turned on.

• Gripper set to RELEASE.

Step 20 – Detect Workpiece and Extend Slider

If a workpiece is present and the suction gripper is up, the slider extends to approach the part.

Step 30 – Lower Gripper and Engage Suction

After extending, the gripper lowers, and the gripper engages. A delay ensures reliable pickup.

Step 50–60 – Lift Workpiece and Rotate Base

The gripper lifts the workpiece, the slider retracts, and the base rotates LEFT toward the bin.

Step 70–90 – Place Workpiece into Bin

Slider extends again. The stacker lowers and releases the part into the bin. After a short delay, the sequence resets.

Future Development Plans

Once the Pick and Place station correctly attaches lids (currently blocked by the angled pickup issue), the Deassembly Station will receive its complete upgrade:

1. Full Two-Phase Deassembly

• Phase 1: Detect and remove the lid, then place it in the first bin.

• Phase 2: Return, pick up the base of the workpiece, and place it in the second bin.

2. Lid Detection Logic

• A sensor or flag will be added to determine lid presence and adjust logic accordingly.

3. NX Object Sink Integration

I plan to add Object Sink features in Siemens NX MCD to simulate the collection of the lid and workpiece base. This will enable parts to be properly removed from the simulation once they are placed in a bin, making the process more realistic and responsive.

Sustainability and Recycling Potential

One of the most valuable aspects of the Deassembly Station is its ability to reclaim and separate unused or excess workpieces and lids. Rather than discarding them entirely, this station enables:

• Separation of parts (lid and base) for potential reuse.

• Simulated sorting into dedicated bins, supporting recycling workflows.

• A foundation for future integration with material reprocessing or re-supply loops.

This setup supports a more sustainable automation process by:

• Reducing material waste.

• Lowering the consumption of freshly manufactured parts.

• Promoting responsible industrial design through digital twin simulations.

As automation continues to evolve, integrating sustainability at the logic level not only adds practical value but also aligns with modern engineering goals. This deassembly and recycling loop will play a key role in the long-term development cycles of the project.

Conclusion

The Deassembly Station is now in place as the fourth step in the automated line. It:

• Leverages pre-existing assets to save development time.

• Successfully moves workpieces to designated disposal bins.

• Sets the foundation for a more intelligent recycling phase.

With just a few final improvements and the completion of the Pick and Place station’s lid-handling logic, this station will be ready to operate in full deassembly mode, contributing to a complete and robust digital twin.