Automated robotic assembly is one of the wonders of the modern world. If you're thinking about using robotic automation, though, it's important to comprehend its basic elements. Organizations preparing to automate need to understand the following 5 issues.

Defining the Required Processes

Whatever process you're planning to automate, you ought to be able to define it on a step-by-step basis. This has to be almost obnoxiously detailed. If Step 35 of the process is connecting Widget A to Sprocket K, then you need to define how the components get there and the ways they connect. You will have to perform a complete breakdown of the process both physically and mentally. On the upside, this may afford you a chance to improve speed and efficiency.

Conditions

You'll also need to define the conditions that will control the process. What defines the stopping point, for example? Does the stop trigger a new start? If not, then what does?

Organizations need to think about the basic math of how the process unfolds. If you need to have 5 widgets proceeding down the assembly line at any given moment, you'll also have to consider what triggers the next widget going onto the line. Remember, robotic automation tends to work best on tasks that are repetitive, require great precisions, and are easily defined.

Space

All automated robotic assembly occurs in a defined space. You and the contractors handling the setup process need to think about where everything will go. Likewise, you'll need to consider how the various robotic elements will physically interact. You don't want to have one robotic arm at risk of crossing up with another, for example.

Similarly, all of this equipment may need ventilation. Especially with air-cooled systems, the open space will serve to dissipate heat from both the robotic components and the computers running them. Also, you'll need to maintain some space so technicians can move around the machinery to provide service and maintenance.

Human Supervision

Even the most radically automated processes need humans to supervise. You should think about where the people will be relative to the positions of the machine. They'll also need monitoring tools, including video surveillance and sensors, to help them verify that all of the elements of the process are operating within specifications.

Safety

Finally, you'll want to check all of the materials you'll be using for safety. If you're working with volatile or reactive chemicals, for example, you'll want to be sure the robots are made of materials that won't adversely interact with them.

For more information on automated robotic assembly, contact a company that provides this service.