Robotics is having more than a moment in manufacturing. Humanoids are stealing the spotlight in pilot programs at Amazon warehouses and BMW and Mercedes plants, but enhancements to tried-and-true technologies are the developments making waves in our industry. Collaborative robots and vision systems are more versatile and accessible than ever— and many small- and mid-size manufacturers see them as a critical way to stay competitive and streamline their operations.
Collaborative Robots
Collaborative robots have long been one of the most commonly adopted robotic technologies, and the advancements keep piling up. Just ten years ago, five manufacturers produced the world’s cobots, and applications trended toward palletizing and packing. Today, more than 30 cobot manufacturers exist, and capabilities have expanded and diversified, with cobots that feature single or multiple arms, precise end-of-arm tools and grippers, and scanners or other vision systems. Cobots take up limited floor space and have a smaller learning curve than many other emerging robotic technologies. With their ever-growing range of capabilities, they are a smart option for manufacturers seeking greater efficiency, enhanced quality, and the ability to compensate for workforce shortages and make production safer for human workers.
Advanced Vision Systems
Advanced vision systems have been improving quality in many sectors for years by using cameras and sensors to gather data about the manufacturing process, identify risks and defects, and even perform tasks in response. Smart camera-based and compact systems are simpler, more affordable options for small- and mid-size manufacturers, but the capabilities of advanced vision systems run the gamut. The most common uses for vision systems in manufacturing include visual or sensor-based inspections that trigger automated repair. They can also be paired with a robotic arm for part location or bin picking, or with an AMR to navigate warehouses autonomously. Advanced vision systems have a variety of applications and entry points, and this versatility is making them increasingly popular among small- and mid-size manufacturers.
The impact of robotics on manufacturing is significant and growing, and collaborative robots and advanced vision systems are proving to be crucial entry points for smaller manufacturers. Small- and midsize manufacturers are using technology to save money, improve quality, enhance their supply chains, and reduce the impact of worker shortages—crucial actions to keep them competitive in an ever-changing global marketplace. Robotics is forever changing the way we do business and is the path of the future for Michigan companies.
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