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The Role of Industrial Robotics in Manufacturing

The advancement of technology in the world we live in is at a high speed, and it continues to reach new heights with the passage of time. The idea and concept of coexistence between robots and humans seemed unrealistic. However, this concept has now become a reality, and industrial robotics is evolving as the backbone of the manufacturing sector. 

From handling material to welding spots and assembling precisely, robots are simplifying tasks. In this article, we will first explore what industrial robotics is all about and how it is contributing to the manufacturing sector.

What is Industrial Robotics?

In manufacturing, industrial robotics refers to machines that automate and program industrial tasks, including picking and placing, welding, and inspecting. These machines use a series of actions on a workflow or an object and perform even more tasks automatically. This robotics automation is based on high-volume repeated actions for an unlimited number of units.

Industrial robots also perform low-volume tasks, where different operations are required every time. In such cases, they use intelligent sensors and software like lasers and cameras, and adjust whatever they do. Every action in the automation process is accurate and detailed, as robots do not experience fatigue or boredom.

Industrial Robotics Types

Implementing the industrial robotics solutions is a suitable strategy for your business optimization; to strengthen and smooth your line of production, manage the scarcity of labor, or even make your workplace a safer area to work in. 

The difficulty lies in finding the right robots among so many options. Let’s look at the most common types of industrial robotics and their applications. 

1. Cylindrical Robots

As evident from the name, these robots perform tasks within a cylindrical workspace. They combine rotational movements with horizontal and vertical movements. Their application on the manufacturing floor proves their versatility. 

Cylindrical robots outperform in tasks related to handling material, assembling processes, and tending operations. The way they are designed makes them suitable for operations that demand constant circular motion, including:

• Packaging
• Palletizing
• Precision dispensing

2. Articulated Robots

These robots have arms with multiple joints, delivering a unique range and flexibility of motion. Their ability to perform tasks repeatedly with precision makes them the best choice for complex tasks. Not only that, they are a versatile performer for various industries as they can deliver wide-reach coverage and lift heavy loads. 

3. SCARA and Delta Robots

If you want precision and speed in your tasks, SCARA (Selective Compliant Assembly Robot Arm) and Delta Robots are the best choice. For your assembly and handling tasks, use SCARA robots that show high speed in vertical movements to preserve floor space. Contrary to this, Delta robots’ spider-like design is the best choice for pick and place operations. 

4. Cartesian Robots

Cartesian robots operate on an X, Y, Z (three-axis) system, making them effective and straightforward. These robots work best for tasks that require linear motion. You can consider these robots as three-dimensional plotting devices in industry. Their strengths are accuracy, reliability, and simplicity in programming and maintenance. 

Technology Supporting Industrial Robotics in Manufacturing 

From large manufacturing facilities to smaller ones, robots are becoming more affordable. But, making the most of these robots in your manufacturing facilities also depends on investing in the following technologies: 

AI & ML

Investing in AI & ML will enable your robots to learn from their experiences. Instead of being limited to their initial programming, they will be more adaptive to perform tasks with more efficiency.

Edge Computing

With the digitization of manufacturing processes, they can create and collect more data. Financing in edge computing technologies will make your robots capable of accessing and evaluating huge amounts of data. This data will, in turn, enhance your processes and allow predictive maintenance. 

IIoT

Robots are now also a part of IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things), and this field is expected to grow. A time will come when IIoT advancements in industrial robots will be to the extent that your industrial devices will exist in a connected network, gathering data and talking to each other, in real time. So financing IIoT is a wise decision. 

Control Systems and Sensors

Both control systems and sensors allow industrial robots to interact with their and interact in environment while they can sense hurdles and other elements. They can detect contact using cameras and sensors, create 3D maps of their environment, and decide how to interact. Utilizing such systems will help you accomplish your manufacturing tasks efficiently and safely.

How are Automation and Robotics Improving Manufacturing? 

The impact of robotics automation on manufacturing is evident in the following table: 

Manufacturing Stage	How It Helps	Benefit
Rapid Prototyping	Aids in additive manufacturing, followed by generative design	Useful for Global-scale manufacturing MNCs, SMP operations, and startups
Concepting a Topology	Provides multiple variations to choose from, while producing generative designs	Requires computing power only, at low cost.
Design Testing	Sends digital files to 3D printers	Helps managers in testing against multiple performance criteria by using different structures for each test.
Optimization via Internet of Things	Refines designs on the basis of real-time metrics	Helps meet performance requirements through continuous improvements
Production Integration	Enables the digital file to work as a single truth source along the workflow	Ensures production is done with accuracy by integrating with the robotics environment

Benefits of Warehouse Robotics

While discussing the role of industrial robotics in manufacturing, we cannot neglect the role it plays in benefiting the warehouse. Warehouse robotics includes automated systems of software and robots used to perform tasks in a warehouse. 

The following are some of the benefits of warehouse robotics that convince manufacturing businesses to turn to warehouse automation: 

1. Cost Cutting

One of the best qualities of industrial robots is that they can operate without breaks the whole day and night. This cuts short the need for more people to work at different rotations. As a result, robotics automation saves money over time, despite having huge upfront costs. 

2. Reduced Burden on Manual Labor

The warehouse environment is sometimes fast-paced and dangerous, and requires the workforce to work without time off or breaks, resulting in their mental toll. In such a scenario, the role of warehouse robotics becomes essential. 

Warehouse robots tackle hazardous and stressful tasks that include loading heavy objects and placing them in high-level spaces. This way, they take the physical and mental stress of labor, making them more productive and motivated. 

3. Better Accuracy

Warehouse robots are designed in the way they can perform specific tasks precisely and quickly. This means that robotic automation in the warehouse for tasks like picking and sorting results in high accuracy, which would otherwise cause costly, avoidable mistakes. 

4. Repetitive Task Automation 

In a warehouse, most of the tasks are repetitive, and when done manually, they can result in errors due to labor’s loss of focus or tiredness. They perform repetitive tasks with equal precision each time. This way, the labor can focus on more complex jobs that require decision-making.

Steps Before Investing in Industrial Robotics Solutions

Before you jump to select an industrial robot for your manufacturing tasks, there are several factors you should have in mind. 

First and foremost, analyze the specific requirements of your application. It will help you understand and identify which tasks will be the most beneficial when the robotics strategy is implemented. This is where you will consider specific features:

• Speed
• Payload capacity
• Integration capabilities
• Precision 

Next, calculate how much its ownership will cost. These costs are related to training and maintaining the robots. Also, consider if support and training resources are available for the robots you are investing in, to ensure your robots are suitable for long-term success.  

Investing in the right robots can modify your operations. The best way to discover which options are suitable for your business is to partner with experienced robotics integrators. Leave it to Nextbridge and let it explore what is truly possible for your business.

Industrial Robotics at Nextbridge

Nextbridge has successfully developed multiple robotics that can facilitate your manufacturing processes. 

Articulated Robotos	Features	Benefits
Baxter Programming Solutions	Ensures dependability and consistent performance	Performs complex, human-like tasks with flexibility
Label Scanning Technology	Automates the process of product identification and tracking, and controls their quality.	Ensures that the production line is accurate and efficient.

Industrial Robotics: The Future

Still wondering why you should invest in industrial robotics solutions? The future it holds is described in a single word: Automation

As a part of the data landscape, robots are more likely to be connected with operating ecosystems. They will be analyzing and reporting their own performance. Not only that, they will be able to find inefficiencies and correct problems, specifically due to AI.  The algorithms that drive robots will respond to business aims and create their space in the system. As a result, they will create more informed data moving from the supply chain. 

This automation means industrial or manufacturing workers and managers will perform different roles in the future. Experience with the robots will be a necessity for them, and the job they perform in the factory processes. But by definition, they will not be just operators or machinists; they will be considered managers. 

All these changing roles of industrial robots will expand human skills beyond just physical or technical. All the workers in the factory will need to speak algorithm and data analytics language. They will be more than workers: managers and engineers.

Keeping all these factors in mind, you now know how important the role industrial robotics plays in manufacturing.  Choose your robotics integrators wisely. 

Final Thoughts 

Industrial robotics is changing the way manufacturers work, and it is undoubtedly linked to the future of manufacturing processes. Whether it is a matter of your warehouses or production floors, automation is bringing accuracy, enhanced speed, and employee safety at the workplace. That is where Nextbridge will act as your partner and help you align with the future advancements while moving your manufacturing business towards success.