A manufacturing company gets a large contract. While the demands for production have risen, the manufacturing facility does not suddenly have more area for floor or skilled workers. An increase in production for a short period may be possible, but adding another shift can introduce new labor requirements as well as training, supervision, and quality control.
These scenarios reveal an crucial reason for robot automation. Robotics does not only replace people with machines. If it is used correctly it could alter the way manufacturers make use of the resources they have.
Image credit: automatedsolutions.com.au
Have a look at the time that passes between products
Manufacturing inefficiency doesn’t have to be evident. A worker could spend 15 minutes putting the part in place before implementing 10 seconds of materials, and then a few seconds to move it onto the next stage. On a single part, the difference in time is not significant. These seconds add up when multiplied by thousands.
It’s the same for the waste materials. A tiny amount of leftover coating or dispensing material that is multiplied throughout a production run that is high-volume can become a meaningful expense.
Companies considering robotic automation Australia projects can benefit from examining these small, repeated losses before deciding what equipment they need. The analysis by ASA’s experts is designed to identify bottlenecks and quality issues, as well as the waste that can be a problem in a plan.
Robots have to integrate into the process.
A robot is only one of many engineering decisions. Tools, guardings, controls sensors, conveyors and fixtures could also be required. Engineers must take into consideration the robot’s reach and payload, and how it interact with its surroundings and how it will move.
ASA’s approach for FANUC robot automation encompasses concept development and system design as well as CAD Simulation and offline programming. Engineers can explore system configurations and estimate cycle times before the finished system is installed in the factory floor. This is particularly helpful in situations where space is not available or if new robotics are required to integrate into an existing production line.
Paint and Dispensing demonstrates why Replicability is Essential
Certain manufacturing processes demonstrate the importance of controlled movement. Imagine coating hundreds or thousands of parts. Not just completing components quickly is the goal. It is crucial to manage the speed, distance, and movement of each piece from beginning to close of the process.
Our specialists have experience painting and dispensing across different industries like aerospace and automotive. In these environments industrial robotic automation may allow for repeatable, programmed movements while reducing exposure of employees to physical demands or potentially dangerous processes.
Better control may also reduce the unnecessary use of materials, leading to lower waste alongside productivity gains.
Even after installation the system will still require people
Automation does not completely eliminate the need for manufacturing expertise. The capabilities required to manage, maintain and operate the process shift.
Employees should be able to detect abnormal behavior and identify issues, and perform the appropriate maintenance. Processes and programs are able to be changed later if the production needs change.
ASA provides training on site in safe operation, programming and troubleshooting, in addition to maintenance for electrical and mechanical components. The company offers servicing and assistance for assessing the condition of equipment and taking care to address wear throughout the system’s lifetime.
Capacity is more than working more quickly
The expansion of capacity for Australian manufacturers doesn’t necessarily involve buying a bigger facility or adding more workers to repeat processes. Sometimes, the most important thing to consider is whether the present manufacturing process could be designed differently.
ASA has been working on and the integration of automation systems since 2002, supporting companies in Australia and also projects around the world. The approach combines needs analysis, engineering, simulation, FANUC robot integration training, servicing, and maintenance.
Automating for automation’s sake isn’t a goal. A system worth investing in will provide a manufacturer with tangible results, including greater reliability in production, better quality, safer processes as well as reduced waste or a higher capacity.
