The term “collaborative robot” may be a bit new to most of us, as most robots are not designed for collaboration. However, there are some that have been specifically built with this in mind and can be used for tasks such as assembly or packaging. The idea behind collaborative robots is that they can work alongside humans without causing any damage. The main benefit of these machines is that you don’t require a lot of training before using them.
Types Of Collaborative Robots
There are several different types of collaborative robots available today. Some are designed to work in factories, while others are more suited to home environments. There are also those that are capable of performing both roles. Here, we will look at the three most common types of collaborative robots.
Industrial Robots
Industrial robots are designed to perform repetitive tasks in industrial settings. They can be programmed to carry out specific actions, such as welding or painting. Most industrial robots are made from metal and are referred to as cobots. They are usually equipped with sensors that allow them to detect obstacles and other hazards.
Service Robots
Service robots are designed to assist people in their homes. They can be programmed to clean floors, mop rooms, or even cook meals. Many service robots are small enough to fit into cupboards or under beds. Others are large enough to sit on tables or chairs.
Mobile Manipulators
Mobile manipulators are similar to industrial robots but are designed to travel around a factory floor. They can be programmed to pick up items from one location and deposit them in another. They are typically very mobile and can easily navigate around tight spaces.
Which Industries Can Benefit From Industrial Robots?
Collaborative robots are being used across a wide range of industries. Here are examples of sectors that can benefit from collaborative robots.
Automobile Industry
Automotive manufacturers are increasingly turning to collaborative robots to improve production processes. For example, Ford recently announced plans to invest $1 billion in new manufacturing facilities. These include a plant where robots will assemble cars. Collaborative robots can be programmed to handle complex tasks such as welding or painting car bodies.
Healthcare
Healthcare professionals are now using collaborative robots to assist patients during surgery. The robot can hold surgical instruments and retract tissue using robotic arms. This allows doctors to operate much faster than if they were doing the same task manually.
Manufacturing
Manufacturing companies are turning to collaborative robots to increase efficiency. Robots can be programmed to move parts through a process line. This means that robots can do the hard physical work while humans focus on the more cognitively challenging aspects of the job.
Aerospace
The aerospace industry has been using collaborative robots for decades. They are used in assembly lines, where they perform repetitive tasks such as welding, painting, drilling, and cutting. These robots work well when performing these tasks, but they cannot be used in other areas of manufacturing. Collaborative robots are also useful in warehouses, where they help move heavy objects around.
Retail
Retailers can use collaborative robots to reduce labor costs, increase productivity, and enhance customer service. Robots can be used for inventory management, picking stock, packing orders, and stocking shelves. They also help retailers save money by reducing employee turnover.
What You Need To Know Before Investing In A Collaborative Robot
Technological advances mean robots are becoming more affordable and easier to operate. In addition, collaborative robots are able to work alongside humans due to their ability to see, hear, and speak. As a result, these machines are set to increase in popularity.
However, collaborative robots don’t move by themselves. Instead, they must be operated remotely via a tablet or computer. As such, manufacturers often recommend that users receive special training. Training programs vary depending on the manufacturer, but many include lessons on how to avoid collisions, keep employees safe and ensure equipment doesn’t get damaged.
The 4 Best Reasons To Invest In A Collaborative Robot
The benefits of using a machine like this far outweigh any initial investment costs. Here are four reasons why.
1. Robots Are Safer Than Humans
When it comes to manufacturing, accidents happen. That’s why collaborative robots are designed to minimize risks. The robot is designed to work alongside people rather than replace them. It has sensors that allow it to detect objects and avoid collisions. This means it can move safely around people without needing special permission.
2. Robots Help You Save Time And Money
When working in production lines, speed matters more than anything. Another benefit of collaborative robots is saving time and money. This is because they reduce the amount of time it takes to perform repetitive tasks, which means lower labor costs. They also save money by reducing the number of employees needed to complete those same jobs.
3. Robots Are Adaptable
Unlike traditional robots, which are built with a fixed design, collaborative robots are customizable. This allows manufacturers to create unique products without spending thousands of dollars on new machinery. Robots can also perform tasks that would otherwise take hours or days to complete. This includes assembling products, painting walls, and more. They also provide feedback so that workers can easily see whether their actions were successful.
4. Robots Are Easy To Maintain
Manufacturers have found that collaborative robots require minimal maintenance. This makes them ideal for companies that want to cut down on operational costs. The robot has a small footprint and weighs less than 100 pounds, so it doesn’t require any special storage space. Moving around a factory floor is also easier because it doesn’t require a forklift operator. And since it’s designed to work alongside humans, it requires little training.
Bottom Line
Cobots are revolutionizing the manufacturing process by collaborating with humans. They are becoming increasingly popular in factories because they are safe and easy to use. If you’re looking for a way to increase efficiency in your factory, then collaborative robots might just be what you need.
