System
Kroll Autorobot of Finland have developed a
multifunctional system for alignment, repair and
straightening. It can be added to as a workshop
expands, thus catering for both small and large
bodyshops (Figure 14.53).
Autorobot L
For the small bodyshop wishing to invest in a
crash repair system, the system begins with the
Autorobot L (Figure 14.54). This is easily and
quickly loaded using the unique patented sill
clamps. The pulling tower can be used 360 around
the vehicle to be repaired. Multiple pulling positions
around the Autorobot L mean that two or
more pulling towers can be used at any one time
for both minor and major repairs. This system is
mobile and can be moved to any work area in
the workshop easily and quickly. The short bed
allows access for repair and the engine can be
removed while the vehicle is still mounted on
the bed.
Autorobot XLS II
By adding to the Autorobot L with a lift, extra
pulling towers and a measuring system it becomes
the Autorobot XLS II (Figure 14.55). The lifting
unit of this system makes many phases of the job
comfortable, such as the removal of mechanical
parts and the alignment and repair of a damaged
chassis. In addition to this the lifting unit assists
the mounting of the vehicle. It takes only a few
minutes to mount a vehicle on to the Autorobot
XLS II. The four operations are as follows:
1 The vehicle is brought up above the bench on
the drive-on ramp with or without the aid of
a winch.
2 The sill clamps are then moved into place.
3 The straightening bed is hydraulically lifted.
4 Finally the sill clamps are tightened.
The design of the Autorobot allows maximum
accessibility under the front and rear of the vehicle;
therefore all dismantling, measuring and straightening
operations can be carried out with ease.
The measuring system (Figure 14.56) is interchangeable
with all Autorobot benches. A damaged
vehicle body can be straightened to its original
measurements with accuracy and ease using this
system. Mechanical measuring rods are used to
remeasure the chassis and body. All necessary
measuring information for various vehicle models
can be found on the data sheets provided. The overhead
measuring system can help restore the upper
part of the vehicle body to its original shape as on
the data sheets. The system traverses the full length
Figure 14.53 Autorobot XLS II showing liftpack servicing four top frames (Kroll (UK) Ltd)
Major accident damage 437
of the vehicle, allowing measurements to be taken
at any point along its length.
III Super
The III Super features five pushing-pulling towers
and multifunction robot arm, all operated
by remote control electrohydraulics. This system
of multitowers allows straightening and counterpushes
combined with holding positions so that
the straightening work becomes easier for the
operator. The straightening system works on a
sliding tower base, allowing the most difficult of
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repairs to be carried out (Figure 14.57).
Figure 14.54 Autorobot L using lifting crane (Kroll
(UK) Ltd)
Figure 14.55 Autorobot XLS II system (Kroll (UK) Ltd)
Figure 14.56 Autorobot measuring system used on
the XLS II (Kroll (UK) Ltd)
Figure 14.57 Autorobot III Super complete system
(Kroll (UK) Ltd)
Choice of systems
The design concept of monocoque construction
with its crumple zones which absorb energy
through deformation of panel structures, and
the increasing use of high-strength steels, have
made essential the use of repair and alignment
systems even for minor damage repairs. This
has been encouraged by the research carried out
at the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre
Thatcham, and by the promotion by the VBRA
and the AA of improved standards throughout the
vehicle body trade.
Owing to the wide range available of repair and
alignment systems, it is increasingly difficult to
select any one system, as they each have many
differing advantages. The following are some of
438 Repair of Vehicle Bodies
the important criteria to be considered in the selection
of suitable equipment.
1 Suitability for the type of repair work normally
handled.
2 Suitability for the volume of work handled.
3 Availability of initial training and further training
as required.
4 Adequate service and back-up by the
manufacturer.
5 Availability of accurate data information which
should be constantly reviewed and updated.
6 Expected lifespan of the equipment, and the
possibility of it becoming outdated.
7 Mobility, portability and ease of storage.
8 Firm securing of vehicle during repair.
9 Good system of alignment that can be used
without too much dismantling of mechanical
components (dual systems are sometimes
preferable).
10 Multipulling facilities for simultaneous repair
over 360 degrees, and enough pulling power
to cope with HSS.
11 Adjustable working height positions.
12 Adequate holding facilities to allow the welding
in of new panel assemblies.
14.3 Alignment of the modern integral body
