This white paper from Universal Robots takes an in-depth look at machine tending operations within today's factories, and how collaborative robots help machine shops free up valuable personnel, increase capacity while improving quality, and breathe new life into idle equipment.
Competitive pressures and dynamic market demands have made the automotive industry the most automated in the world. But today, it's about more than just fast, repetitive, high-volume production. Collaborative robots are a fast-growing trend with automotive OEMs and Tier suppliers due to their easy setup, quick integration and safe operation.
Traditionally, robots have worked alone inside safety cages or fences. But, more applications on assembly lines today require humans and machines to work in close proximity.
Robots are becoming nearly as common in assembly plants as nutrunners and conveyors. The advent of collaborative robots is only furthering that trend. However, as robots play a greater role on the line, engineers must ensure that workers remain safe around the technology.
Collaborative automation using cobots or lightweight industrial robots is transforming processes and productivity at metal and machine shops of all sizes.
An education program developed by Universal Robots to teach people how to program and implement collaborative robots has been accredited by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) and is now authorized to issue continuing education units.
In December, Universal Robots sold its 50,000th cobot, which was purchased by a German manufacturer to increase productivity and improve employee safety.
