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by Hallie Forcinio, Contributing Editor   | Abstract: | Lower costs, higher performance and easier setup are laying the foundation for a robot rebirth by making the technology more accessible to more manufacturers. |
Although robots are not new to manufacturing, recent advances in technology and the availability of lower-cost products should expand the use of robotics. Combine these trends with other forces, including scarce labor, worker safety, productivity and ergonomics, and robots may become a stronger force in many areas of manufacturing. Like any new piece of equipment, robots take time to configure and install. However, improved robot control and connectivity have smoothed the process somewhat. In addition, the growing use of simulation, which simplifies and expedites the programming of robot paths, has accelerated the start-up process -- making robots available to more, and smaller, operations. However, the greater availability of the technology raises other issues in the manufacturing operation. What cannot be overlooked in new installations is the human factor, especially if the robot will automate a manual operation. Communication and training are essential to defuse employee fears about job loss and ensure worker safety around the robot cell. "The impact of robots will be felt plant-wide," according to Robotics for Senior Management, a paper published by the Robotics Industries Association (Ann Arbor, MI). [Click to continue] |