Automate Your Machine

In the next section, the focus is on automation. This is where the data already collected is set to be translated into an automated process. Here, the eBook looks at both part data and process data. It starts by specifically expounding on weight, size, material and fragile geometries as they appertain to process data.

When it comes to process data, this eBook emphasizes on setups and loading time. Under this subsection, the aim is to analyze a process and determine the best ways to minimize time wastage.

When it comes to robotic cell design, the eBook brings several aspects into focus. Robot selection ($), Gripper Selection ($), Peripheral Devices ($) and Introducing the Robotic Cell are the three areas covered in this section. All these areas are followed by the dollar sign, meaning that emphasis is on the cost aspect.

The eBook notes that robotic cell division is largely about calculating the general cost of cell. In the first three subsections, the book guides on how to sift through the wide array of peripheral devices, robots and grippers. The last subsection is a little bit more diverse, touching on footprint, machine location, formation, risk assessment and general impact of cell.

Finally, profitability of the investment is discussed. The eBook highlights both starting investment and maintenance as important considerations at this stage. The importance of a thorough analysis of Return on Investment (ROI) is recommended here. The eBook suggests consideration of both savings/production enhancement and starting investment in making this decision.

In order to ensure accurate analysis, some suggested points of analysis are yearly throughput increase, number of shifts, operator cost, number of operators and yearly savings.

Investing in a robotic Machine Tending cell can bring numerous benefits to a workshop owner/manager. These steps make the seemingly complex automation process fathomable even to people who are not experts in this area per se.

This article was republished from Robotiq.