Robots for Manufacturers: A guide

September 21, 2023
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A 101 of what Manufacturing robots can do

Industrial robots are where advanced technology meets practicality. You've probably heard quite a lot about the likes of Articulated robots or Collaborative robots, and this is because these sorts of robots are changing how companies approach manufacturing. Simply put, Industrial robots are mechanized tools that can make tasks, like material handling and intricate assembly, incredibly easy.

Whether it's the speed of delta robots or the adaptability of mobile robots, the robotics industry is offering solutions that the manufacturing industry didn't know it needed. When implemented properly, these solutions have the ability to streamline production lines.

At a glance, here is what these innovative robots can do:

  • Welding
  • Shipping
  • Product assembly
  • Packing
  • Handling raw materials

What are Manufacturing robots?

Manufacturing robots are advanced systems with specialized technology and mechanisms that can automate certain tasks within the manufacturing process. Manufacturing machines require human intervention to operate but manufacturing robots operate autonomously.

The first Industrial robot was introduced in 1962 by George Devol, which marked a significant change in how industries handled production. Over time, these automated systems have become more sophisticated, versatile, and accurate. Nowadays, many Industrial robots easily bridge the gap between manual labor and technology.

These machines are the result of years of innovation geared toward making the life of the human worker easier.

How do they work?

With every Industrial robot, you'll find a combination of mechanics, electronics, and software. These are sophisticated tools that are driven by precise commands. The robotic arm, a common component, moves with accuracy, replicating tasks that are normally done by human hands.

The delta robot, for example, is designed for quick pick-and-place tasks, moving at high speeds with pinpoint accuracy. Then there are autonomous mobile robots, which move around factory floors independently, transporting goods or assisting in tasks.

These Industrial robots, whether stationary like a robotic arm or mobile, rely on sensors, actuators, and advanced programming. They interpret data, execute tasks, and ensure operations run smoothly. All these factors, as well as their working alongside humans, make Industrial robots a great option for elevating manufacturing processes.

What kind of tasks can they complete?

Assembly

Industrial robotics have improved assembly-line precision and speed. They can also handle complex tasks like fitting tiny electronic components or assembling large car parts. Collaborative robots, or "Cobots", work in tandem with staff to ensure that assembly processes are efficient and error-free.

Plus, their adaptability means that they can be reprogrammed for various tasks, making them invaluable in production setups.

Milling

Milling, which for a long time has been a manual process, has been simplified by the inclusion of Industrial robots. These robots can be equipped with advanced tools to carve, shape, and refine materials with impressive accuracy. Whether it's metals, plastics, or wood, a robotic arm, for example, can move with the necessary precision to ensure consistent quality.

This automation not only speeds up the production process but also ensures a level of detail and consistency that's hard for human hands to replicate.

Palletization

Palletization is about organizing and stacking products on pallets for shipment or storage. This is where the Delta robot and other specialized Industrial robots excel. They swiftly pick up products from conveyor belts and place them on pallets. Because of how quickly they can do this, products are ready for shipment much faster, reducing warehouse storage needs and streamlining logistics.

Machine Tending

Machine tending involves monitoring and feeding machines, a task that is now often assigned to robots. Whether it's loading raw materials into CNC machines or removing finished products, robots can keep operations running smoothly without interruption.

Industrial robots powered by artificial intelligence can transport materials between machines, making sure that production lines never stall. This automation both boosts efficiency and frees human workers for more complex tasks.

What are the benefits of implementing Manufacturing robots in your factory?

Investing in robotic automation can keep your business competitive in even some of the toughest of times. Here are some standout benefits:

  • Efficiency: Robots work without needing a break, unlike humans and machines requiring human intervention. This ensures continuous production and faster turnaround times.
  • Consistency: With the precision of an Industrial robot, your products are effectively guaranteed to be uniform every time.
  • Labor solutions: When you're faced with a skilled labor shortage, an Industrial robot or two can fill the gap, making sure your operations don't stall.
  • Safety: An Industrial robot can take care of hazardous tasks, which can significantly reduce the occurrence of workplace injuries.

Cost savings: Investing in an Industrial robot can be costly at first, but over time, robots can lead to significant savings in production costs and labor.

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What types of Manufacturing situations are best for robots?

Material handling

Industrial robots excel in material handling, especially when precision and speed are paramount. They can swiftly transport, sort, and organize raw materials or finished products, ensuring a smooth workflow in factories.

Processing operations

For tasks like cutting, drilling, or painting, an Industrial robot can give your operations the consistency needed. Their ability to maintain the same level of precision over a long time makes them ideal for repetitive processing tasks.

Assembly and inspection

Robots shine in assembly lines, handling intricate tasks with ease. Also, because they have advanced sensors, they can carefully inspect products for defects. This ensures that only top-quality items make their way to the consumer.

What’s involved in implementing a Manufacturing robot?

Implementing an Industrial robot involves several key steps. First, it's important to understand the different types of robots, their capabilities, and how those capabilities could help you. Next, assess the nature of your operations to determine the specific requirements. This will guide your decision on choosing the right manufacturing robot most suited for your tasks.

Finally, partnering with a trusted robot manufacturer, like Standard Bots, ensures you receive quality equipment and comprehensive support.

FAQs

How do robots help manufacturers?

Manufacturing robots simplify operations by providing efficiency and precision. They are able to do repetitive tasks, allowing human workers to focus on more skilled roles. This can enhance productivity and also open doors to tasks previously seen as impossible because of labor shortages. With robots, manufacturers can get consistent quality, faster production, and adaptability in their processes.

Who are the big four robot manufacturers?

The four biggest companies in robot manufacturing are ABB, FANUC, KUKA, and Yaskawa. Although they're widely known, bigger isn't always better. Going for giants can sometimes mean less flexibility and higher costs. Standard Bots offers affordable and potentially more suitable alternatives, like the RO1, which can be a great option for smaller businesses.

What are the different types of robots in manufacturing?

In the manufacturing industry, different types of robots serve and offer different advantages. For example, Articulated robots have rotary joints that can mimic human arm movements. Cartesian robots move on three linear axes, offering precision. There are also Delta robots, SCARA (Selective Compliance Articulated Robot Arm) robots, and mobile robots.

Lastly, Collaborative robots, or "Cobots", work alongside humans to ensure safety and efficiency.

Final thoughts

Implementing robotics in manufacturing is a transformative shift that's changing the industry for the better. With the capabilities of modern Industrial robots, businesses can reach higher levels of efficiency, safety, and productivity. As the world of manufacturing evolves, integrating these advanced systems becomes a necessity.

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