New to Automation and Robotics? Here’s 5 Common Mistakes to Avoid
When you’re preparing for a first manufacturing automation project, it probably seems like there’s always more to learn about types of robots, end-of-arm-tools, how systems come together, and all the additional equipment that comes into play. Each new example you see can simultaneously provide inspiration and leave you with even more questions. In our experience, certain missteps and assumptions […]
The Automation News Roundup for Spring 2021
Automation in manufacturing continues to grow and redefine the shop floor. Evolving at an ever-increasing pace, robotics, and automation, by some predictions, will assume 30% of the tasks in 60% of the industrial occupations over the next few decades. And with all the benefits of automation—including higher production, fewer errors, and increased safety—it’s not surprising […]
Integrating Automation into a Manual or Semi-Automated Process
Automation helps streamline processes, eliminate some or all human intervention, and reduce mistakes. It allows for completing a designated task efficiently, accurately, and consistently. Today, by automating a manual process, manufacturers can boost productivity, reduce machine start-up times, and lower their life cycle costs. Because of an automated process’s speed and flexibility, the time to […]
Manufacturing Automation: Robotics Are Only Part Of The Story
Automation and robotics use specialized equipment to perform defined physical tasks, like packing products in boxes or spot welding metal frames. Sometimes we hear “automation” and think “robot.” With a range of payload and reach capacities, easy programming, articulated joints, and high speed, robots are a clear choice for applications requiring precise movements and repeatability. It’s no […]
What’s An Automation Integrator’s View of Cobots? Here’s Our Top 7 Observations
Collaborative robots are a major trend in the automation market, projected to grow by over 40 percent to $7,972 million by 2026. Does that make them the right automation solution for your business? Here are the things we urge manufacturers and industrial automation users to think about. There are many things to think about when you’re […]
Cost vs. Opportunity: What Are You Really Getting for Your Automation Investment?
Companies always approach capital expenditures with great care, but especially now as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. While we think this is actually a good time to invest in automation, we understand it might feel risky in this time of uncertainty and changing markets. It may be helpful to think about automation as an investment in […]
But Are They Safe? Our Guiding Principles for Robot Safety
Robots are not new technology. However, they are showing up in new places all the time such as smaller manufacturing and machine shops, medical settings, warehouses for packaging and order picking, and maybe even your local coffee shop! The trend is in smaller, collaborative robots that humans interact with directly in a work cell to add […]
Workplace Culture in the Age of Manufacturing Automation: Part 2
In Part 1, we looked at ways automation changes the tasks and work at a manufacturing facility. In this post, we’ll discuss the human side. Robotics and automation affect workplace culture in terms of how work is done but also how employees view their work and their value to the company. Most will be accepting of […]
Workplace Culture in the Age of Manufacturing Automation: Part 1
Across industries, workplace culture is a hot topic. The culture at your own workplace might be “I know it when I see it” – hard to describe in specific terms but noticeable when it changes. Some ways to think of workplace culture are: Automation drives cultural changes in all aspects of work. In this post, […]
