Automation can help reduce costs, increase quality of output, and increase project success. A robotic integrator can increase proficiency without increasing payroll.
- Choosing a robotic integrator also fits the recent trend toward outsourcing.
- Successful robotic welding system integrators employ the following:
- Project Managers have backgrounds in manufacturing, and should understand manufacturing processes and how the robotic system plays a part in those processes. They are responsible for providing the concept on which the robotic solution to the manufacturer’s application solution is based.
- Application Engineers understand welding processes and how a robotic workcell’s components interact with each other.
- This entails robot and PLC programming and process development.
- To remain competitive, robotic welding systems integrators must maintain a staff to anticipate customer needs.
- Projects most likely to succeed are those in which the robotic systems integrator has been involved in the planning from the earliest stages.
- A Versa 4 robotic welding workcell welds frames at the Herman Miller manufacturing facility in Canton, GA, producing office cubicle walls.
- A good robotic systems integrator can provide insight into part manufacturability issues, particularly for robotic automation.
- Options available for robot type, fixtures, operator interfaces, and process delivery products, such as power supply, torch, and consumables, are a few of the items that make up a robotic solution.
- When selecting a robot, the integrator considers accuracy, speed, reach, operator interface, and other options that are available with each robot.
- Those most concerned about reducing the risk of injuries have adopted the Robotic Industries Association (RIA) Code for Robotic Safety, a guideline widely accepted as the industry standard.
- Robotic welding systems’ high capital costs mean that customers have the right to demand fast, efficient service when something goes wrong.
- A competent robotic systems integrator is one of the best investments a manufacturer can make when it is time to upgrade production processes.
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