Robotics in Manufacturing Lesson

Introduction

Robotics are used in many applications such as medicine, exploration, entertainment, military support and operations, warehousing, and product assembly processes. This lesson will overview many uses and technologies of robotics in manufacturing

Introduction

Robots have many advantages in manufacturing. The use of robots improves product quality. They increase efficiency in production by providing precise results throughout continuous operation. Robots increase worker safety by reducing injuries often sustained from repetitious work. And robots are ideal technological solutions for work in hazardous areas like welding areas, painting areas, and tasks requiring exposure to nuclear radiation. Robots also have the potential to do manufacturing in space.

The downside is the large upfront expense of the robotic system. However, the purchase price of robotics continues to decline and makes this technology a viable solution for manufacturing.

Robots can be configured for different applications. They can have real time human control or either be configured for autonomous operation. Real time robots will often have a physical interface to manipulate robot movements. Autonomous robots are preprogrammed to perform a function, and will execute programmed instructions based upon the feedback of sensors. These types of robots often have to be trained for motions and positions by the operator physical positioning the arm at needed points.

Robotics in manufacturing are part of a work cell. The work cell is composed of an input feeder device, another piece of production equipment such as an injection molding machine, and the robot.

See this video to see the demonstration of various robots completing tasks in a work cell. This video shows a series of steps demonstrating material handling and transfer.

Material Handling

Industrial applications for robots:

Material Handling- Most prevalent application. Automation of tedious unsafe tasks in production line.

Welding - Spot welding and arc welding. Fabrication application for precision and quality.

Assembly -Precision and speed for part assembly operations of press-fitting, inserting, fixing, and disassembly. Works with conveyer systems and sensors.

Pick & Place - Precisely positioning and placing electronic components on printed circuit boards.

Inspection – Conducting product Inspection & testing of tolerances through cameras and sensors.

Dispensing – Spray jets for precision and speed for gluing, painting, applying adhesive, and spraying especially for uneven surfaces. The electronics manufacturing industry requires precise manufacturing of small parts. This video demonstrates the dexterity of a pick-and-place robotic system. Completion time and placement accuracy are the principal measures of performance.

The electronics manufacturing industry requires precise manufacturing of small parts. This video demonstrates the dexterity of a pick-and-place robotic system. Completion time and placement accuracy are the principal measures of performance.

Challenge

Take Away

View the following NASA video to learn the application and technology of the International Space Station End Effector. You will use this information in an upcoming project.

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