When considering an investment in flexible robotic automation, there's no denying that price plays a significant part in the decision-making process. However, it can be difficult to get a straight answer on how much a certain project will cost, simply due to the vast range of needs and circumstances that determine what's needed. In this video, ABB VP of robotics and applications for handling and machining Stefan Drakgnsjö talks through some of the contributing factors.
According to Drakgnsjö, it's important to define the 'total solution' for robotic automation. It's not just the robot, but also the peripherals, the tooling, the fixturing, safety and staffing. The robot itself will do the movement, but the material inflow and outflow must also be considered, for example.
Another excellent piece of advice is to keep in mind the previous and subsequent processes. What's the best way to present parts to the robot?When the robot is taking parts out of a machine, for example, what's the best way to present those parts to the next station? Can subsequent processes be added to the robotic cell? For example, deburring and quality inspection are common after a machining process. Should the robot be equipped to handle these processes as well?
To learn more about how to plan for a flexible automation project, contact a robot manufacturer such as ABB or a local system integrator. Also, check out How to Pick, Pitch and Purchase Your First Industrial Robot right here on engineering.com.