Material Handling Solutions: A look into Automated Robotics

Robots have many uses in the manufacturing process and are a solution aimed at improving productivity and efficiency. Material handling is an important step in your assembly line and is an arduous and repetitive motion that can slow down production if not handled effectively. Robots make it easier for the flow of production by handling materials faster and with higher yield.

 

They are specifically designed to ease the load on employees and can be smoothly integrated to save on cost of labour. Before investing in an automated robot, it’s important that you take the time to analyze how the solution will contribute to production by understanding what’s on offer and implementing simulations.

 

Why robotic handling solutions?

Material handling is important because without it the final product cannot be transported for a profit. It can be a slow process; you need to consider what would be best for you to effectively turn a profit. Considering the cost of a production line, it’s important to look for solutions where you can tighten your budget while becoming more optimized. Robotic solutions have proven to be beneficial in that they can be used for managing dangerous materials as well as heavy products that can’t necessarily be handled by employees. Robots have the following benefits for material handling:

 

●      Scalability

●      Reduce costs

●      Quick deployment and increased flexibility

●      Optimised operations

●      Increased return on investment (ROI)

●      Employee safety

●      Full integration

 

Robotic arms can be used for palletizing and depalletizing which gives employees more time to perform assembly of goods. Robotic arms deliver material handling through grippers or suction to move goods from conveyor belts or pallets. They can be used for heavy goods and different shapes and packaging. It’s important to note that they don’t remove human intervention but works alongside workers to deliver optimised solutions.

 

Robots suited to material handling

Most robots can handle materials, but if you’re looking for a robot thats sole purpose is to handle materials, some are better suited than others. Mainly you’re looking for a robotic arm that can transfer goods from the assembly line to pallets or other areas. Depending on the weight and size of the product you manufacture, you’ll need a job-specific automated solution that suits your business.

 

Cartesian robots

If you’re looking for a more affordable robot to handle material and packages, a cartesian robot would be the best choice. These robots operate on three linear axes moving forwards and backwards for up and down and side to side movements that are suited to moving goods. They offer flexibility and precision by operating on the Cartesian Coordinate System (X, Y, and Z). They are best for handling simple tasks, such as material handling and have simple controls that make it easier to program and use. Bear in mind that if you want to use this variety robot for more advanced operations, you’ll need a more sophisticated model.

 

Articulated robots

Although more costly than others, articulated robots offer a wider range of motion that would work for just about any task. They operate like a human arm, which makes it perfect for material handling, but can also handle actions such as painting, metal casting, welding, and machine tending. However, if you’re looking for a solution that handles materials specifically, you are better off with a Cartesian robot. If you’re looking to expand the use of your robot at a later stage, it’s worth spending more on an articulated robot. They offer high throughput at reduced costs. They are highly flexible and versatile and can be used for an array of materials in many different settings.

 

Automatic Guided Vehicle System (AGVS)

If you’re looking for more mobility in material handling, an AGVS can support many transport activities. These are trucks that can follow a set path to transport goods within a facility. They are battery-driven and offer contactless steering. There are three types: towing vehicles, load collection from floor, and load collection from shelves and racking. This gives it a versatile range and offers a more sophisticated solution. They can be used in various settings such as airports for baggage transport and warehouses for goods and parts transport.

 

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR)

AMRs have a clear advantage over AGVS in that they can roam free and perform tasks in a facility and are not confined to a preprogramed path. They understand where they need to be and where they are. This means that they are not limited to a single function and can be used for various applications.

 

Yaskawa’s robotic solutions

We are a trusted partner and leader in the manufacturing of robotic solutions. It involves flexibility through 2D and 3D vision software, as well as specialised software and tooling to enable customisation for speed, safety, accuracy, and maximum productivity. We can also provide you with the necessary training to use your robot to its full potential. Contact us for more info.