This tutorial describes insertion assembly technology, our third representative example of a component technology for assembly automation.
Low-cost automation of assembly procedures consists of automating multiple simple component procedures in combination. Three representative examples of component technologies for assembly procedure automation are described in these technical tutorials: swaging technology, screw tightening technology, and insertion assembly technology.

(1) What is insertion assembly technology?

- The term "insertion assembly technology" refers to techniques for performing the following types of procedures, whether manually or using tools/machinery.

- Interference fits and other press fits are insertion assembly methods enabling a range of functionality, including: (1) fixation, (2) positioning, (3) posture holding, and (4) force transmission.

- Clearance fits and other insertions are insertion assembly methods with a range of uses, including: (1) positioning, (2) guidance, (3) preprocessing such as joining, and (4) coupling.

(2) Characteristics of insertion assembly technology

1. Advantages

• - Insertion assembly is suited to use as a component technology for automated assembly, because it generally involves movement in a single direction.
• - High-precision assembly automation can be effected with ease, according to the level of precision of the parts used. (See Fig.1.)
• - Disassembly/re-assembly is possible after assembly.

2. Disadvantages

• - Insertion assembly is greatly affected by the design form and quality (such as precision or surface conditions) of the two individual parts to be assembled.
• - It is extremely difficult to automate exacting procedures requiring highly skilled manual work.
• - Disassembly is difficult if faults (such as biting) occur during insertion assembly mechanical procedures.