AutoTHT

01/01/2026 - 12/31/2027

Strategic Guideline for Implementing Robotic Through-Hole Assembly (Project processing ist carried out by RIF e.V., Production Systems Department)

Problem

Through-hole assembly (THT) of electronic components is still predominantly performed manually, particularly in small- and medium-batch production. High product variability, small lot sizes, and the delicate nature of components pose significant challenges for automation. At the same time, recent advances in robotics and artificial intelligence open up new opportunities for (partially) automated THT assembly. However, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) lack a structured and practice-oriented approach to realistically assess technological capabilities and to make informed decisions regarding the introduction of robotic assembly solutions.

Foto einer Leiterplatte mit mehreren elektronischen Bauteilen, darunter Kondensatoren, Widerstände, integrierte Schaltungen und Schraubklemmen. Die Platine ist symmetrisch aufgebaut, in der Mitte befindet sich ein größerer Chip, umgeben von weiteren Komponenten, die in strukturierter Anordnung verlötet sind. Rechts sind drei größere Elektrolytkondensatoren sichtbar, während oben mehrere blaue Steckbrücken und kleinere Bauteile angeordnet sind.

Objective

The objective of the AutoTHT project is to develop an SME-oriented strategic guideline for implementing robotic through-hole assembly processes. This includes the systematic definition of requirements for robotic THT assembly systems as well as an assessment of the current state of the art across key technological domains—ranging from component singulation and gripper technology to sensor-based and AI-driven robot control approaches. In addition, a software-based system design tool will be developed to support companies in planning, evaluating, and comparing suitable automation concepts.

Approach

The project follows a structured and sequential approach. First, system and user requirements for robotic THT assembly are defined in close collaboration with industrial partners. Based on these requirements, relevant hardware and software technologies are systematically evaluated. The resulting insights are then integrated into the development of a digital system design tool capable of representing different levels of automation. In parallel, demonstrators and experimental setups are developed to validate selected concepts under practical conditions. Finally, the results are consolidated into a strategic guideline and prepared for effective transfer into industrial practice.

Research, Development and Application Partners

Funding Reference

The research project "AutoTHT" is funded under the funding number 01IF23644N by the GBO e.V. by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE) based on a resolution of the German Bundestag as part of the program to promote industrial collaborative research (IGF).