FEATURE Robotics
PRECISION WITHOUT COMPLEXITY
Volker Spanier, Head of
Manufacturing Solutions at Epson EMEAR, outlines ways in which automation
can offer advantages to the manufacturing workforce
M
anufacturers across Europe are under sustained pressure to balance productivity improvements against resource
and investment constraints. For many, deeper automation is the obvious solution. Yet the biggest barrier to automation is often not hardware costs, but the complexity of integration and programming. While industry discussion focuses on
emerging technologies such as AI, cobots and humanoids, it can overlook the value of using automation to support the existing workforce and close the productivity gap. Simplicity of design, speed and process precision are often what manufacturers need most, particularly for assembly, sorting, packaging and dispensing. Indeed, the most valuable automation
projects often address established production tasks in which manual work is a clear constraint on output. In these environments, SCARA (Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm) robots, designed for fast, precise movement in horizontal assembly and handling tasks, are often ideal. They can support applications where
repeatability and throughput directly affect performance. Their compact footprint can also help manufacturers introduce automation where factory floor space is limited. For manufacturers with limited engineering
resources, SCARA systems can help deliver productivity gains sooner while minimising disruption to existing production. Recent research carried out by Epson, for example, found that simpler integration with existing production lines was the leading factor encouraging businesses to adopt or expand their use of SCARA robots, cited by 31%. This capability is important because it gives businesses the scope to start with a defined application before expanding automation as their confidence and requirements evolve. However, technology alone cannot close the productivity gap. Labour shortages make
14 October 2026 | Automation
automation increasingly necessary, but a lack of technical expertise can prevent businesses from adopting it successfully. Research published by the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), for example, has found that acute skills shortages can constrain robot adoption, because businesses lack people able to operate and manage advanced machinery. Epson’s survey also found that 43% of respondents viewed recruiting automation or engineering specialists as their biggest workforce challenge.
capital and engineering capacity are limited. A business might have a budget for one automation project for the entire year and cannot afford mistakes. Where available, leasing or other financing models can spread the cost of equipment, making a first or subsequent investment more accessible. As requirements change or new funds become available, scalable automation can be extended to additional applications. So how might this look on the factory floor?
Well, consider a manufacturer in which a manual handoff has begun to limit throughput in an assembly process. The manufacturer decides to introduce a SCARA robot at that specific stage, while the operator continues to prepare components and deal with exceptions. The first
Employees need the confidence to work alongside automated systems and respond when processes change. Intuitive programming tools can make routine setup and adjustments more accessible to employees with limited programming experience, although appropriate training remains important. These processes must also scale effectively, which can be easier said than done. But manufacturers can begin by applying automation to a defined process where manual work is restricting output. For an initial application, an appropriately specified entry-level SCARA can keep the hardware investment proportionate without over-engineering the solution. This focused initial or additional deployment allows businesses to assess the operational benefit before making a wider investment. This can also reduce the risk where
deployment reveals how the robot fits into the existing workflow and whether it can sustain the required cycle time. It also clarifies what support the team needs to use the system effectively. The business now has a tested model for later investment. It can use that experience to judge where a similar approach could deliver the greatest benefit, without committing to a wider programme before proving the case in its own environment. From the employees’ perspective, this can be a win-win, freeing them from repetitive handling tasks while giving them the chance to develop skills in operating and adapting automated systems. Combined with the right skills and a scalable
approach, automation can support existing teams while giving manufacturers the scope to adapt as production requirements change.
Epson
www.epson.co.uk
automationmagazine.co.uk
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