A manufacturer is awarded a large contract. The production requirement for each month increases however, the plant does not have enough space and employees with experience or extra hours during the day. An increase in production for a short period may be possible, but the addition of a shift could introduce new requirements for labor as well as training, supervision, and quality control.

Such situations highlight an important function of robotic automation. Robotics isn’t only about replacing humans with machines. It can be used to transform the way that manufacturers utilize their current production capacity.

Image credit: automatedsolutions.com.au

Take a look at the minutes that vanish between the products

Inefficiency in manufacturing doesn’t have to be dramatic. An operator may spend 15 seconds positioning the component after which 10 seconds are spent applying materials, then a few seconds more to move it to the next step. On a single part, the difference is insignificant. Repeated thousands of times these seconds can turn into important production times.

The same applies to wasted material. Same goes to waste materials.

Companies considering robotic automation Australia projects can benefit from examining these small, repeated losses before deciding what equipment they need. ASA’s needs analysis aims to identify bottlenecks as well waste, quality issues and other processes that can affect the automation project.

Robots need to be able fit into the process.

The choice of a robot is just one engineering decision. The system could also require tools, guarding, controls, sensors, conveyors, fixtures, electronic integration, and connectivity with existing production equipment. Engineers should consider the robot’s reach and payload, in addition to how it interact with its surroundings and move around.

ASA offers the ability to develop concepts, system design and offline programming as part of its method of robotic automation. Digital simulation allows engineers to examine configurations and estimate the time-to-market before the system is put into operation on the customer’s factory floor. It’s especially useful when there is a small space available or when the new robotics has to integrate with an existing production line.

It is crucial to have repeatability in painting and dispensing

Controlled movement is essential in certain manufacturing processes. Imagine coating hundreds of components. It’s not just about completing the components quickly is the ideal outcome. The motion, distance, speed, and application need to remain controlled starting from the beginning of the production process until the end.

ASA has specialists who work in the field of dispensing and painting across various industries, such as aeronautics, automotive and aerospace. In these areas, industrial robotic automation provides predictable, controlled movements. It also reduces exposure of employees to physically challenging or potentially hazardous processes.

Reduced wasted materials and an increase of productivity can be accomplished through better management.

The System Will Still Need People After Installation

Automation doesn’t eliminate the requirement for manufacturing knowledge. It changes the skills required to manage and maintain the process.

Employees need to be able spot abnormal behavior and solve issues, and perform the appropriate maintenance. The demands for production can shift over time, which means that programs and processes will require adjusting.

ASA offers training on site including programming, safety, troubleshooting and electrical and mechanical maintenance. The company provides servicing and support for checking the condition of equipment, and dealing with wear throughout the lifespan of the equipment.

Capacity is greater than working more quickly

In Australia, boosting production capacity does not necessarily mean the addition of workers to repetitive tasks or buying larger structures. The best question to ask is whether the current production process can still be improved.

ASA has been working on and integrating automation systems in Australia since 2002. We also help with projects overseas. Its approach connects needs analysis Engineering, simulation, FANUC robot integration training, as well as servicing.

Automation is not the aim. A good system will give a manufacturer something measurable in terms of increased reliability and quality, as well as safer processes, lower waste or a greater capacity in the existing factory.