However, the megatrends leading to a higher degree of automation in wire processing - rising labor costs, lack of human resources, advancing miniaturization, seamless traceability, and higher quality and efficiency requirements on the part of automotive manufacturers - have nevertheless come to bear. That is why discussions between Komax and its customers about sustainably increasing the level of automation have continued throughout the past challenging years.

There is no way around automation

Customers are aware that there is no way around automation. The Corona pandemic has reinforced this realization, as, for example, dependence on available personnel can become a problem and a reduction is therefore desirable. Global megatrends will continue to contribute to a gradual increase in automation in wire processing in the coming years. Current projects by various automotive manufacturers and suppliers aimed at simplifying wire harness topology are also aimed at significantly increasing the degree of automation.

Komax is involved in individual projects of this kind and is demonstrating the changes that need to be made to the wire harness in order to automate production to a greater extent. New types of wire (e.g. for infotainment systems or electric vehicles) are also an opportunity for Komax to create further unique selling points and thus additional sales opportunities.

Zero-defect tolerance

The rapidly spreading principle of zero-defect tolerance means that the need for testing systems continues to grow. Such test systems ensure one hundred percent functionality of wire harnesses and assemblies installed in vehicles. After all, faulty wire harnesses can only be repaired or replaced at great expense to productivity and profitability once they have been installed in the vehicle. If there are functional defects in the electronics in delivered vehicles, a high level of reputational damage can also be expected.