Custom Application Cells
Some applications do not fit a ready cell. HQA builds custom automation when the project fits our standard platform approach: an industrial cell base with application-specific tooling, handling, controls, and process equipment.
Custom Automation, Built From Experience and a Standard Platform
HQA spent years building custom automation from the ground up. That experience is still important, but we no longer try to make every project a blank custom machine.
Today, our custom work starts with a standard industrial cell platform whenever possible. The frame, guarding, controls, safety, and basic machine layout are defined. The custom engineering goes into the application: the part, fixture, robot, tooling, inspection, cycle time, and process sequence.
Our Custom Machine History
Before standard cells, HQA built many custom automation projects across different processes and industries. That history shows the kind of machine-building experience behind our current platform.
View legacy custom projects →Platform-Based Custom Cells
This is the new way we build custom. If the application fits our platform, we can start from a proven cell base and focus the custom work on the process instead of rebuilding the whole machine from zero.
Learn how our Modular Platform works →When a Custom Cell Fits
A ready cell is the best option when it fits. A custom application cell makes sense when the process needs different handling, tooling, robot motion, inspection, or machine interfaces — but still fits inside our industrial cell platform.
Part Handling
Trays, drawers, rotary tables, conveyors, robot loading, custom nests, multi-part fixtures, or operator stations built around the part.
Process Equipment
Pressing, screwdriving, dispensing, inspection, assembly, laser marking, verification, sorting, or other operations added to the cell.
System Interfaces
Interfaces to conveyors, nearby machines, barcode systems, vision systems, data systems, plant controls, or customer equipment.
If the application requires a completely different machine architecture, very large footprint, washdown environment, cleanroom validation, or ultra-high-speed custom motion system, it may not be the right fit for this platform.