Automation & Robots: The Factory of the Future

The manufacturing industry of the future is expected to employ automation that is increasingly simple to operate, safer, more accessible, as well as more cost-effective. It is also expected to continue utilizing the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI), complex software, and intuitive interfaces. The "disruptive" technologies required to initiate this revolution are already available, driven by the demands put on the manufacturing industry and demands within the industry itself. These technologies define "the factory of the future."

 

The factory of the future 

While we can talk about the multitude of positive effects that traditional industrial automation has had on the manufacturing industry, the factory of the future evidences the transformative power of more complex automation and robotics the more they are being utilized. The future factory has become a concept to enable manufacturers to be more productive and efficient, increasing output due to these key dimensions:

 

Augmentation 

AI technologies automate processes and machines, which increases the flexibility and adaptability of manufacturing processes. Data insights and analytics drive the smart factory and are capable of fulfilling many roles in the plant. Augmented systems enable manufacturers to meet increasing demands while improving worker efficiency, safety, and productivity.

 

Connectivity 

Manufacturers will use the Internet of Things (IoT) to transform product creation and manufacturing within the smart factory. When paired with analytics and AI, IoT and connectivity will increase efficiency, all the while reducing downtime and unexpected maintenance or software reprogramming. This includes measuring productivity and promoting new product ideation by providing data to decision-makers and stakeholders faster.

 

Sustainability

The factory of the future is highly efficient yet environmentally friendly. Manufacturers may get more insight into their manufacturing processes, equipment wear and tear, and, more importantly, energy consumption by making use of digital technologies. Provided with this information, they can optimize production, increase efficiency, and perform regular maintenance to minimize energy loads and waste. All of which are crucial markers of sustainability.

 

Integration simplicity 

Due to major advances in processing, software development and networking technologies, the construction and maintenance of robots is considerably faster and more economical than in previous years. Sensors, for example, were previously linked individually to robot controllers with individual cabling via terminals, connectors, and junction boxes. Today, plug-and-play technologies allow them to be connected using simplified network wiring.

 

Complex tasks

We have seen that general-purpose robots have a repeated precision of 0.10 millimeters, while certain modern robot designs have repeatable accuracy of 0.02 millimeters. But future models are expected to boast even more accuracy. They are also being developed to have increased coordination as a result of controllers that are able to drive dozens of axes at the same time, allowing numerous robots to collaborate on a singular job.

 

Operator safety

Thanks to improved and more advanced safety systems, robots can work alongside humans in new tasks providing on-the-job safety assurance. If a robot's sensors detect that an operator may come to harm with the machine or tools, the cobot will automatically shift to slow down or change its direction to prevent this. In addition, this would lead to the reduction of safety fences and other safety measures, meaning less expenditures - especially beneficial to small businesses.

 

Why should you choose to automated your business or plant

 

With so much potential on offer for the factory of the future, it’s easy to get swept away in all that's on offer. An effective automation strategy requires reasonable judgement right out of the gate. It's crucial to decide which operations within your business to automate, how much automation your business actually requires, and which technologies to implement.

 

Automation systems and robotics that are less expensive, smarter, and more flexible are already revolutionizing the manufacturing sector and in a variety of ways. While the technology is becoming increasingly easier to operate, certain business considerations may not. Companies need to take a comprehensive approach to capitalize on the potential given by these new technologies.

 

Yaskawa

We are a trusted partner and leader in the manufacturing of robotic solutions for palletizing and depalletizing. Our offering involves flexibility through 2D and 3D vision software as well as specialized software and tooling to enable customization for speed, safety, accuracy, and maximum productivity. We can also provide you with the necessary training to use your robot to its full potential. Contact us for more info.