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ROBOTICS
value by integrating robot-based technologies at other places in their line particularly for Transporting items from one process to the next is usually done with custom conveyors designed and commissioned specifically for the task. Extensive surveying and planning must precede construction to minimise the risk of errors that can delay project delivery and cause cost overruns. Programmable linear transport modules like the LCMR200 (Figure 3) permit an alternative approach that allows flexibility to configure almost any layout and to program speed, direction, start/stop positions, and acceleration/deceleration individually for each module. The layout and settings can be redesigned or fine-tuned with minimal impact on the project cost or timeline, while additional benefits include the ability to adapt and scale the transport as production requirements change in the future. With LCMR200 transfer modules for both horizontal and vertical axes, and the latest crossover module, it is possible to build flexible grid-like transport structures in two and three dimensions. Unlike conventional conveyors, the modules are programmed in the same way as other robots in the production line, using the same tools and methodology. By connecting all units to a single controller, lines can be configured up to 25.5 metres long and with up to 64 independent sliders controlled simultaneously. Direct positioning of the sliders allows processes such as component placement or assembly to be performed without removing the item from the module, saving significant engineering time and costs.
PHARMACY AUTOMATION Robots are also changing perceptions of the pharmaceutical industry close to the point of care, in automated pharmacy systems that improve and accelerate dispensing of medicines for patients. Pharmacy automation takes over the laborious
mixing, measuring, counting, and capping traditionally done by pharmacists. It can even fulfil prescriptions while the pharmacy is closed. Pharmacists can thus spend more time counselling patients and delivering preventive services such as
Figure 2. Cleanroom robots with IP65-rated vertical bellows protect the manufacturing environment.
health screening and vaccinations.
In addition, pharmacy automation can enhance efficient use of space within pharmacies, ensure that medicines can always be stored and prepared under the right conditions, secure and track controlled drugs, and minimise medication errors. Although this is a fast-moving market, growing at close to 8 per cent and expected to reach $8.2 billion by 2027 , high initial setup costs can be a barrier to adoption. Robots like Yamaha’s YK400XE affordable-cost, high-performance SCARA series can help overcome this and deliver a faster return on investment. Easy to program and combined with standard grippers or custom- designed end effectors, these can take care of picking, mixing, and packaging the drugs ready to be retrieved for the patient.
CONCLUSION
As a ready solution to engineering challenges that demand accurately controlled high-speed motion, industrial robots help to keep the project on time and on budget. Flexible and programmable, their cycle time can be synchronised with the line speed to achieve the desired production rate measured in units per hour. The latest affordable-cost SCARA robots and flexible transport modules give system integrators additional options to deliver value for customers, leveraging robots not only to boost productivity but to improve the accessibility, safety, and quality of services for patients - ideally leading to better outcomes.
Yamaha Motor Europe
www.yamaha-motor-robotics.eu
Figure 3. Linear transport boosts the system integrator’s toolbox.
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