April,
By: Jeff Kamin, Senior Project Engineer, QComp Technologies, Inc.
Robots are the buzz for anyone in manufacturing, assembling, packaging or distributing products. Are you looking for ways to automate, reduce variable labor costs and be more competitive? Robots are fast, powerful, and have a great range of motion which is precisely why they are such versatile tools in automation. However, many end users considering the potential value of a robotic system are relying on the integrator or OEM to provide a solution without really understanding the potential benefits and liabilities that come with a robotic system. The following document poses some of the questions that a robotic user should consider prior to selecting a robot and a robot programmer/installer.
Safety
Robots are fast, accurate, powerful and also incredibly quiet which means robots have what it takes to get the job done, but also have great potential to cause serious harm and damage. Safely harnessing the benefits of robots without endangering human life is the goal of robot manufacturers, qualified and reputable integrators, and should be the goal of every end-user as well.
1. Have I read and do I understand the applicable safety standards that apply to robots and their integration? ie; Crush zones, guarding setbacks, access areas?
2. Am I committed to adhering to the safety standards and requiring all parties associated with the project to comply as well?
3. Am I committed to acquiring and providing the training needed for the safe use of the cell by operations and maintenance personnel?
Equipment
On the surface robots seem to be very similar in capabilities between the various manufacturer. Digging deeper reveals vast differences in hardware reliability, longevity, implementation of safety features, operator interface, and programming methodology. Regardless of size and complexity, your first robot system is often under great scrutiny and sets the direction for all future implementations. Pre-purchase diligence will help you establish a clear automation path now and reward you in the future as well.
4. Am I confident that the robot equipment I am purchasing is the best fit for the current project and is it on the path Ive defined for future automation projects?
Once implemented, robots are often vital to meeting your production demands. While they are extremely reliable, at some point support will be needed. Is there 24/7 support from the manufacturer or integrator? How quickly could the needed support personnel be on your site? Spare part availability? What about remote diagnostics? Has the cell been designed to allow for at least limited production with the robot out of service?
5. Does the robot vendor/integrator have the resources and commitment to service that I need for this important part of my companys operation?
End of arm tooling and cable management is crucial to the success of the project. Is it designed to survive the long term stresses of the anticipated loads/accelerations? Is it able to withstand the high forces of a collision with misplaced products or improper setup? Are consumable parts (vacuum cups/grip pads/nozzles) easy to replace without requiring recalibration? Keep in mind that cable (and hose) management becomes more difficult as the range of motion increases, and becomes more critical as the cycle rates increase.
6. Does my (or my integrators) tooling design and cable management plans anticipate the rigors and lifespan of this project?
Programming, Operator Interface, Operations
The best robot for the application with well designed and robust tooling, in a safely designed and operator friendly cell can still cripple your operation if it has not been programmed with the same attention to detail. Programming determines whether your investment in robotic automation will be a trusted dependable partner, or the madman in a cage that the operators are scared to work with and maintenance hopes to avoid.
The operator interface must be clear and easy to understand so that operators can quickly gain confidence in using the system after appropriate training. The operator controls should minimize the steps required to set up the desired operation and validate the operators input to reduce the risk of errors. To further limit the possibility of improper setup and collisions, wherever possible, the system should be self-aware of the work environment through the use of sensors and encoding on tools, jigs or fixtures. Repetitive or reactive operations are often cumbersome and slow if done through operator displays judicious use of real buttons/controls on a well designed panel is usually a better solution. Alarming and operator alerts should be specific, understandable, and retained in a log for later review.
Error and fault recovery must be bulletproof. Well written programs should be able to handle and guide the operator through the recovery process from any foreseeable error conditions without risk of damage to equipment or products. Well written programs should also determine where manual (i.e. qualified personnel) intervention is required and prohibit any other operations until in a safe position.
7. Will my (or my integrators) programming abilities, experience, and dedication to this project ensure the finished system will meet the needs of our operators and provide them with the tools they need to make this project successful?
A well designed robot system should be pretty much maintenance free. Good programming, detailed alarming, and diagnostic logging can give your engineering and maintenance personnel a real edge in quickly identifying, and resolving problems with the system. Quality safety components properly applied along with the annunciation of each safety devices status will minimize the temptation to override to get things working. Well documented programming with careful references to the real labeled input and output components further reduces the time needed to restore a troubled system to operation. Calibration and detailed instructions should be provided to allow replacement components or tooling to be quickly deployed with repeatable results.
8. Will my (or my integrators) programming abilities, experience, and dedication to this project ensure the finished system will meet the needs of our engineering and maintenance teams and provide them with the tools they need to keep this equipment functioning as designed?
Robot systems can be as simple as a stand-alone pick/place unit or as complicated as a fully integrated system that chooses tooling, paths, routines, and calculates all target positions from data supplied by a supervisory system. Would your production tracking system benefit from information supplied by the robot system? Can you eliminate the potential of human error by passing system data directly to the robot system? The higher the level of integration, the more important it becomes to select your robot supplier/integrator carefully.
9. Will my (or my integrators) programming abilities, experience, and dedication to this project explore the potential for real integration and production tracking so my investment can be fully utilized and production improvements documented?
Reality Check
Thankfully, the innovative application and use of robotics still depends on people - people like you people with a vision and determination to see their plans through. Robots are great tools, but they clearly are not the solution for every application. While careful design and excellent programming can provide years of dependable production; robots do not innovate, offer suggestions, buy your products, rejoice with you at the birth of a child, or offer support when you need help. People are your biggest asset; use robots to help your people make the best products possible. If your people see the robot only as a way to cut the head count, you will struggle. If they see it as a tool to help them or relieve them of demanding physical work you are on your way to success.
10. What is my motivation, and how can I best utilize people and automation to succeed in this demanding competitive environment?
Dayin supply professional and honest service.
Founded in , QComp Technologies, Inc. is a robotics integrator, providing automation solutions for a variety of industries. The company designs and builds automated robotic manufacturing cells and materials handling systems, as well as engineers and manufactures drive systems for paper, metal and converting industries. With headquarters in Greenville Wisconsin, QComp has sales and service offices in Wausau and Milwaukee, WI. More information can be found on the companys website at www.qcomptech.com
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SubscribeRobot vacuum cleaners are an ideal acquisition for those who do not have time to clean. Or those who cannot bend because of various circumstances. Waking up or coming home to a spotless house is one of the reasons they are so appealing.
Scheduled cleaning, dustbins that empty automatically, and HEPA filters for those who are allergic are some of the features that endear these cleaners. Users can attest that using the robotic vacuum cleaner is time-saving and effortless.
Customers buy a robotic vacuum cleaner expecting to plug, charge, and run without hiccups. They only consider the technical aspects like suction power and battery life. But there are other factors you need to be aware of, which is what this article is all about.
1. Cleaning
Robotic Vacuum cleaners need periodic cleaning of parts to work flawlessly. You will find cleaning instructions in the manual. Do not neglect this step, as it may lead to permanent damage. For example, some refuse to charge when dirty.
The rollers and bristles need cleaning to remove stuck debris after every use in some models. And others remind you via the app. You may have to do it more often if your home has a pet, as fur and hair accumulate much faster.
In some models, it is a breeze to remove the rollers, while in others, it can be quite a task. Before purchasing, find out how easy it is to clean.
2. Your home layout
Robot vacuum cleaners have a way of getting stuck in odd places regardless of the model. Pricier models can map your home using sensors. And you can put up virtual walls where obstacles are present.
However, for other models, follow the cleaner around during the first run to identify problematic areas in your house. Once you identify them, find low-tech solutions to rectify the issues.
Better yet, before buying, inspect places that may present problems, such as under the furniture, and buy models that will fit; they come in different sizes.
3. Charging base location
If you were thinking of tucking your charging station out of sight, think again.
It needs to be close to a power outlet. And should be accessible once the bot returns to base to recharge or empty its contents. The space in front of the charging station and on either side should be sufficient.
The size and model determine the requirements, but one things for sure, it has to be in the open. You risk your robot missing it if its in a hidden corner. Have a location in mind, or prepare one before making your purchase.
4. Noise
It does not matter how quiet a model is. While it works, there will be some white noise. Not to mention the banging as the robot runs into furniture and wall as it does its thing. But truth be told, some are noisier than others. You need to up your budget for quieter models.
The noise is not a huge consideration for office cleaning. On the other hand, if a model is too noisy, you may not be able to use it while you sleep. But you can work around it and clean during the day.
5. Pets
We all love our furry friends, and for most, they are the reason you are considering a robotic vacuum cleaner. To help with all the hair and fur.
But there is a drawback; it may be difficult for the robot to operate in your absence. Some pets fear it and naturally attack, while others want to play. They may damage the robotic vacuum cleaner, leaving you only one option. Clean while your pet is out. Organize how your pet will leave the house if you can't take them out yourself.
6. Empty the bin
Yes, they need emptying after every cleaning for some models or periodically for others. You should also consider the size of your floor because the holding capacity for dust and debris differs. Otherwise, if you pick a model with a small dustbin, you will need to keep emptying it.
Some models are self-emptying, but you need to raise your spending budget for them. These models are best for those who are allergic and want to avoid dust and allergens.
Others can hold the dirt for up to 60 days before they need emptying. Buy a bot that can cater to your home's needs and fits your budget.
7. They eat everything
One of the best features of a robot vacuum cleaner is running it remotely and scheduling cleaning. Meaning you can have it clean while you are away at the touch of a button and come home to a clean house. But be aware that the robotic vacuum cleaner eats shoelaces, cable cords, and other small things on the floor. Worse still, if the cleaner swallows pet poop, you will have difficulty cleaning the small parts.
Because you are not there to pick them like in a traditional vacuum, pick everything from the floor when you plan on cleaning. Close all closet doors and pray your pet behaves. Better still, clean when your pet is not around.
Bottom Line
Robotic vacuum cleaners are convenient for every home, though they are not about to replace traditional cylinder vacuum cleaners. They have come a long way in terms of technology development. And while they may not clean your curtains, they come fitted with sensors to avoid obstacles. Prices differ depending on the make and features of each model and brand. For the best performer, you need to spend because their prices are high.
Are you interested in learning more about Robotic vacuum OEM contract manufacturing? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!