Robot arms are one of the most useful tools in automated processes. They work and move in a very similar manner to the human arm. They have many uses and benefits, including; welding, picking and placing, and assembly.
Robot arms are a useful tool for many companies and industries. Their many benefits have made them increasingly popular in recent times. Let’s look at a few of them.
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1. Improved Safety
Typical industrial robots we’re kept in cages to protect their human counterparts safe from them. They were particularly cumbersome and dangerous to those around them.
The introduction of collaborative robots to companies has made working environments safer for humans. A robot arm is fitted with sensors that can cause it to stop or slow down when a human is close by. It lowers the chances of accidents and injuries at the workplace.
2. Improved Efficiency
The main purpose of robots was to make work easier in factories and increase productivity. To some extent, this was realized with industrial robots. Now with robots in the market, productivity is much higher.
Robots do not get bored with repetitive tasks. They also don’t get tired and can work continuously. With this many innovative technological advancements to cobots, companies can experience high turnovers.
3. Enhanced Precision.
Cobots work based on programming. They can show tremendous accuracy and precision if there is no malfunctioning. Even the most diligent and careful humans cannot achieve what robots do.
4. Increased Flexibility
Traditional robots were typically drilled into the ground and could move very little. However, the need for more flexibility became clear as the industries changed.
Robot arms were modified to allow movement. The movement was not just in terms of axes but also around rooms. These adjustments increased flexibility and functionality such that a robot could be moved from one workstation to the next. Now robots can be mounted onto platforms, walls, or shelves depending on the need. They can still work well when they are stationary. This freedom of movement means they can perform a wider range of tasks more efficiently.
Applications Of Robot Arms In Different Industries
1. Construction
Construction has been a task primarily performed by human workers for centuries. Even though tasks are relatively repetitive, there are many aspects it requires precise and creative modifications. Humans can think and adjust on the spot, but industrial robots, for the most part, were rather limited.
With the introduction of collaborative robots, particularly in machine learning and artificial intelligence, robots can perform even complex tasks to perfection. For example, collaborative robot arms can lay bricks simply by observing humans or by image-based data analysis. To top it off, they will work while considering external factors such as the wind.
Robot arms can work with precision and flexibility that human workers could not achieve or maintain. They do not get fatigued, meaning construction work can move efficiently and quickly.
Cobots can get to places that would be too high or dangerous for humans to reach, reducing the risks of injury. They also help with other construction-related tasks such as lifting blocks, cement, and painting.
2. Manufacturing
It is an industry that has seen tremendous amounts of growth in recent years, particularly in the electronics manufacturing industry. This industry deals with small pieces and parts, often repetitive tasks.
With human workers, there can be a lot of mistakes, and tasks can take a long time to complete, but robot arms make a huge difference. Most robots work in assembly lines, picking and placing, and quality inspection. For some tasks, however, there needs to be more interaction. The collaborative robot arms work safely alongside humans.
3. Agriculture
The world cannot run without many industries, and agriculture is one of them. For centuries people have tilled the land and repeated tedious tasks with little to show for it. Farming has become a lot easier with the growth of the robotic industry, and as a result, tasks are performed faster.
It lowers the general costs while increasing productivity. Innovative technology makes it possible to obtain higher yields and less wastage. Robots can use sensors to discover the pests and diseases affecting crops and deal with them accordingly.
There are self-driving tractors with sensors and GPS to guide them. Robot arms can work as farm hands performing all the repetitive tasks such as; fruit picking, spraying, weeding, etc.
4. Automotive
Robots have played a crucial role in the automotive industry. Without robots, the industry would not have been able to meet the market’s demands. It helps deal with shortages in labor and cuts in production time.
A car factory will likely have large articulated robot arms that lift heavy weights. In the past, these arms would not have much movement, but in recent times, robot arms are much more flexible. With the increased flexibility, the arms can do so much more. Some of the tasks robot arms perform in the automotive industry include;
- Welding: Most car parts need to be welded. These can be dangerous due to the high pressure and temperatures involved. Robot arms can perform these tasks simply and with precision.
- Windshield installation: It can be quite repetitive, but with robots, it can be done quickly and continuously.
- Assembly: Robot arms are particularly great at assembly. For car manufacturing industries, they play a crucial role in assembling parts of the vehicle, such as doors, bumpers, etc., fairly quickly.
- Material Removal: Robot arms simplify tedious tasks like drilling and sanding.
- Machine Tending: The robots can help with tasks such as picking and placing. They can also help with putting parts into and out of machines.
- Finishing: Robot arms ensure that cars have a clean and uniform finish. They can perform tasks like sanding, painting, and polishing very well.
Wrapping Up
Many industries have benefited from the innovations of scientists and engineers in the robotic industry. The range of functions that robots can perform is significantly higher.
Essentially, robot arms can make a significant difference in many industries. Collaborating with humans makes the workplace a safer and much more enjoyable environment for the workers. Companies can experience more efficiency, productivity, and returns.
