Advanced Robotics in Manufacturing: The Next-Gen Automation Solution
Traditional industrial automation and robotics have successfully been used to increase efficiency, productivity, safety and product quality for some time now. But, more recently, the addition of advanced technologies such as integrated vision systems, artificial intelligence (AI) and intuitive programming software are taking robots and cobots in manufacturing applications to the next level.
This blog will explore the role of new, advanced robotics in manufacturing and highlight the Techman Robot TM6S, a next-generation cobot arm.
The Role of Advanced Robotics in Manufacturing
The application of industrial automation and robotics has transformed manufacturing operations, allowing greater levels of productivity, quality and safety, among other benefits. Industrial robots and collaborative robots, also called cobots, can perform tasks faster and with more efficiency and consistency than completing the same tasks manually, which eliminates bottlenecks, increases throughput and helps to offset the current skilled labor shortage.
Additionally, industrial robots are engineered for accuracy and repeatability, which means they can successfully perform the same task consistently without becoming bored, tired or distracted, eliminating human errors and increasing the quality of manufactured products. It also helps reduce the number of faulty and defective products, as well as associated scrap and waste, to provide a significant cost savings while increasing sustainability.
Another big benefit of industrial automation and robotics is enhanced safety. Robots and cobots in manufacturing can operate in hazardous areas, reducing the need for humans to perform tasks in these dangerous locations. Further, using automation to accomplish lifting, bending and twisting motions for material handling, palletizing, machine tending and similar operations reduces the occurrence of repetitive motion and musculoskeletal injuries among staff. These safety enhancements create a workplace with fewer injuries and lower costs.
And, as robotics have continued to evolve, the next generation of robotics offer these same capabilities and then some. Advanced robotics in manufacturing today are more intelligent and more adaptable than ever before thanks to the addition of modern technologies.
Key features of today’s advanced robots and cobots in manufacturing include:
- Machine vision and sensors: These technologies enable modern robots and cobots to “see” their environment and adapt to their surroundings. For example, today’s robots can reliably inspect products and remove defects from the line while allowing passing objects to continue to the next part of the process.
- Machine learning and AI: Next-generation technologies like machine learning and AI allow robots and cobots to learn from their experiences and improve their performance over time, helping to provide even more gains in efficiency, productivity and quality.
- Intuitive programming: Today’s robots and cobots are easier to set up and configure than ever before, reducing the need for (and cost of) programmers. Intuitive programming also provides greater flexibility as cobots can be taught to perform new tasks if procedures, processes or products change.
By incorporating next-generation, advanced robotics in manufacturing facilities, it is possible to discover even higher levels of production efficiency, flexibility and product quality, assuring that the business remains competitive despite reduced budgets and labor shortages.
A Look at Techman’s Next-Generation Cobot Arm
Techman Robot’s latest addition to its TM AI Cobot S series offers a lot of features that can up the ante on manufacturing floor possibilities. The cobot arm provides an extended robot reach of 1800mm and a 6kg payload capacity, making it suitable for applications that require wide workspace coverage and consistent precision.
The joint speed of the 6th axis on this Techman cobot arm is increased from 225°/s to 450°/s, which can reduce the cycle time of the production line by 25% for better efficiency than was available with the previous version.
The extended robot reach combined with faster cycle times enhances productivity in applications such as palletizing, machine tending, packaging, large-part inspection, pick and place, dispensing, assembly and other common installations for cobot arms.
Additionally, the TM6S is enhanced with an integrated vision system featuring advanced AI technology. While traditional machine vision requires manual set up of algorithms and rule settings to detect and analyze visual information, advanced AI technology uses patterns and machine learning to learn decision rules automatically, providing more efficient and accurate analysis of visual information, which can contribute to greater levels of efficiency, accuracy and cost savings.
The TMflow2 user-friendly software allows users to create and edit robot tasks through a graphical interface using a series of function nodes, simplifying the process of using flow-based programming.
And, the enhanced Robot Stick offers a three-position enabling switch and reset button for easier and safer operation, while 31 safety features prioritize safety and meet key standards, including the Machinery Directive, ISO 10281-1 and ISO 13849-1. These advanced safety features eliminate the need for additional safety PLCs, reducing the costs of safety control configuration and making safety assessments easier.
Advanced automation and robotics featuring enhanced machine vision, AI and simplified programming options, such as the Techman Robot TM6S cobot arm, offer manufacturers a next-generation solution that helps boost efficiency, safety and product quality to new levels, making it possible to remain competitive in today’s challenging manufacturing sector. To learn more about the use of the TM6S model or other cobots in manufacturing, please contact the automation pros at JHFOSTER, a Tavoron company, today.
