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Avoid automated integration failure

 The development of high-tech level has accelerated the development of the robotics industry. In most cases, companies install robots without the support of robot integrators, but many automation systems have challenging obstacles, which are too complicated for DIY solutions.

The difference between DIY applications and those that require integrated software is not particularly clear. The consequences of integration failure may be expensive, but if companies take appropriate measures, they can avoid detours and achieve successful robot integration.

Avoid automated integration failure

According to FANUC America’s account manager John Tuohy, he is a member of FANUC America’s authorized system integrator team, focusing on robotic equipment care applications. He suggested that more than just putting the robot in front of the device. As with any tool, the goal is to optimize the use of the tool to improve quality, throughput, efficiency, and ultimately realize the company's profits. The defined automation strategy will help companies determine what type of automation can help them achieve their goals. There, companies must answer questions like: can they implement robots themselves, or whether they need an integrator.

Tuohy said that emphasizing ease of use rather than collaborative operation is a trend in this field. Nowadays, Cobots and industrial robots have many features, allowing stores to automate simple tasks without the need for integrators. These features include:

Manual guidance and icon-based programming. Users do not need to know the traditional robot programming language to teach cobot. "This is icon-based programming, so everything is a picture, which is hard to mess up." Tuohy explained. "Even if you mess up, you can grab the robot and place it where you want it, and it will remember that way." He predicts that most business owners can get one in 20 to 30 minutes. The cooperative robot took it out of the box.

Plug and play handle. The gripper is an important aspect of the automation system. It varies from application to application and is not always included in the robot. Cobot manufacturers are working with third-party cnc machining and die casting companies to develop a plug-and-play gripper system that is very simple in design and easy to connect and program. It is understood that FANUC has established partnerships with companies including Schunk, ATI, and Schmalz on the plug-and-play gripper of its CRX cooperative robot.

includes a portable system that holds the device. Many companies have developed systems that are easy to deploy, including rack units where industrial robots can pick up blanks and place finished parts.

Although these features make the use of robots easier, companies should be wary of inappropriate integration. An automated system that does not work properly will reduce production capacity and part quality, and result in a waste of time and money. There are many indicators that indicate that a system is not properly integrated. Sometimes the robot cannot pick up the parts, or drop the parts, or the production capacity decreases. But this is not always as obvious as the robot dropping parts-sometimes the system is working, but it is not as efficient as it should be. Efficiency is one of the key drivers of deployment automation, and robot integrators can help improve efficiency. It is understood that they have mastered a lot of system knowledge, including simulation software, such as FANUC's RoboGuide, to prove that integration is feasible before the company makes any major capital investment. These programs are also suitable for companies that implement their own automated systems, but for an enterprise's applications, the cost of using these programs may be a bit high.

Whether an enterprise needs an integrator also depends on the complexity of the application. When companies want to automate multiple machines or add peripherals such as conveyors, the complexity increases.

But, how complicated is it for DIY applications? Tuohy came up with a simple rule of thumb. "When you ask,'Can I? Can I add vision? Can I add power? Can I put this robot here? Can I take care of multiple devices?'" He said, "I need Robot integrators will help you with the integration. If the application is complex, even a simple programmed collaborative robot may need an integrator."

Integrators can also help:

The connection between the machine tool and the automation system. For applications that do not use cobot (cobot is designed for easy installation), the integrator can handle the connection between the machine tool and the robot. The specific connection varies depending on the machine brand.

Fix failed integration. Integrators will provide support for their work so that if problems arise, companies can turn to experts for help.

Clamps and other peripheral equipment. Successful integrators not only understand robotics, but also understand all the cnc operating processes surrounding them, including end-of-arm tools, workpiece fixtures, machine tools, and accessories such as cameras and force sensors. These devices add complexity and bring potential problems.

"Every additional mechanical device may become a point of failure."

Tuohy believes that system integrators have brought professional knowledge and expertise. This is why he recommends that any company exploring automation should contact an integrator, regardless of their automation goals and the complexity of the application. "System integrators with this kind of expertise can save you money. Even if your company's applications don't require integrators, they won't charge you anything to build relationships."

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