A manufacturer is awarded an important contract. While the demands for production have increased, the facility does not suddenly have more area for floor or skilled workers. While adding another shift might temporarily boost production, it could be the cause of additional labor as well as training, supervision, and the need for quality control.
This situation reveals a key need for robotic automation. Robotics isn’t only about replacing humans with the aid of a machine. It could be utilized to modify the methods that manufacturers employ to use their production capacity.
Image credit: automatedsolutions.com.au
Look at the seconds that disappear between the products
Manufacturing inefficiency doesn’t need to be dramatic. A worker may take 15 seconds positioning the component, then 10 seconds applying materials, and then a few more seconds moving it to the next step. The time difference could seem minor for a single component. If repeated thousands of times however the second can increase production by a significant amount.
It is the same with wasted material. In the event of spreading a small amount extra coating or dispensing materials over a long production line can lead to an enormous expense.
Before deciding on the equipment that they require, businesses looking into robotic automation Australia will benefit from studying the tiny losses. ASA’s needs analysis is designed to uncover bottlenecks and quality issues, waste, as well as other limitations to process which could affect the automation project.
The robot needs to be able to accommodate the system around it.
A robot is just one of many engineering choices. The system might also require tools, guarding devices, controls conveyors, fixtures electronic integration, and connectivity with the existing production equipment. Engineers should think about the payload, reach and range as well as how the robot will move and interact with its surroundings.
ASA provides concept development, system design, CAD simulation, and offline programming as part of its approach to FANUC robotic automation. Engineers are able to explore configurations for the system and estimate cycles before the finalized system is placed in the factory floor. It’s especially useful when there’s a finite amount of space, or when the new robotics needs to integrate with a production line.
Dispensing and Paint Shows Why Replicability is Essential
Certain manufacturing processes highlight the importance of controlled movements. Imagine coating hundreds of parts. Not just completing components quickly is the desired outcome. From the moment of starting production through the conclusion all the movements, speed, distance and application must be controlled.
ASA is a team of experts working on dispensing and paint applications across various industries, such as automotive and aeronautics. Industrial robotic automation in these environments will allow for repeatable movement and reduce the risk of employees to physical demanding processes or procedures that could be hazardous.
The reduction in waste and the increase in productivity can be achieved through better management.
Installation of the system isn’t enough. You still need people to maintain it.
Automation doesn’t remove the need for manufacturing expertise. The capabilities needed to manage, maintain, and control the process evolve.
Employees must be instructed to safely use equipment, identify abnormal behavior or malfunctioning components, and carry out necessary maintenance. Production requirements can change, meaning processes and programs may require adjustment later.
ASA provides on-site training in safe operation, programming, troubleshooting. It also offers electrical and mechanical maintenance. The company provides ongoing maintenance and service to ensure that the equipment is in good repair and wear and tear issues are dealt with.
Capacity means more than just making work faster
For Australian producers, expanding capacity doesn’t necessarily mean purchasing a larger building or continually increasing the amount of labor required to perform repetitive tasks. It’s sometimes more beneficial to inquire about whether the production process can be improved.
ASA has been working on and integrating automation systems since 2002, assisting companies in Australia and projects around the world. The method is based on analysis of needs, engineering, simulations, FANUC robotic integration and training as well as maintenance.
Automation is not the aim. A system that is effective should provide a manufacturer something measurable in yield, more stable production with consistent quality, safe processes, less waste, or a greater capacity in the factory it already operates.