Tips for Collaborative Robot Integration  and Operation

Collaborative robots (cobots) have been contributing to the manufacturing industry for over a decade, and technology is only getting smarter. So what exactly is a collaborative robot and what benefits do they offer to manufacturing companies? 

First, cobots are robotic systems that are designed with the ability to work alongside humans in a shared workspace. This means they are equipped with special intelligence and safety measures to create an efficient collaborative environment. 

As for how they can help your company? Read on to find out more.

Unique Benefits of Collaborative Robots

Collaborative robots are unique from any other robotic system because of specific design features that make them suitable for human collaboration. 

Cobot Safety

They have advanced sensors that allow them to stop their task or change direction when they sense a human, which is an especially helpful safety measure. They also have four modes designed for collaboration:

1. Hand guiding 
2. Power and force limited
3. Speed and separation monitoring 
4. Safety-rated stop

These features add a significant level of safety for the workspace. It allows the cobots to work in the presence of humans without any restraint. This means they can be used in environments that in the past have been restricted from robot use.

Labor Advantages

Collaborative robots do not replace humans, which has been a common misconception about robot systems in general, what they do instead is make the human’s job safer and easier. 

Cobots specifically are extremely versatile and can be used across a variety of assemblies. They can do mundane jobs that humans often get fed up with, or even take on tasks with safety concerns so the human workers don’t have to.

While robot systems can be costly, cobots can make the company a substantial increase in revenue in general. After the initial cost, and the cost to upkeep the system, they can help to lower labor costs, and increase output and efficiency. 

Ease of Use

Unlike other robotic systems, which tend to be especially complicated, cobots are actually incredibly simple to use. Their controls are simplified in a way that enhances their ability to collaborate. 

They are easily programmed for tasks, and uniquely flexible to being repurposed to another task with short notice. 

Their ease of use is unique and especially helpful for collaboration because they don’t require high amounts of training to be understood. With any other system, there would likely be extensive training and guidelines for those operating it, cobots simplify that. 

Want Some Guidance Regarding Collaborative Robots?

Overall, cobots possess the unique benefits of easy use, human interaction and collaboration, and increased efficiency in the workplace. If you think your manufacturing company could benefit from implementing a collaborative robot into your facility, but are not sure where to start, don’t stress! AMS is here to help you implement and manage all of your automated systems. Contact us or book a virtual meeting to discuss more.