AUTOMATION & ROBOTICS
STRIKING THE BALANCE TO SIMPLIFY END OF LINE PROCESSES
A
utomation is often framed as humans vs machines, but in a post covid world, what
piece of the strategy of employing humans and machines is most critical to achieving a balance? And what if, we can change the narrative from
‘people working like robots’ to ‘people working with robots,’ with proven results for health and safety, increased efficiencies and reduced wastage. Here, Garry uses the example of end of line
palletising to explore the opportunities for blended working, using collaborative robots (cobots) to redefine automation as a dynamic alternative for manufacturers. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way
in which people view work. Right from hours to place of work, many have decided to turn away from roles that are repetitive, lack progression opportunities or pose risks to their mental or physical wellbeing. At the same time, technology is advancing
every day. Concluding the age-old debate around whether robots are trying to take over the jobs of humans, we can see another way to create a blended working environment with the potential to alter the story. Rather than replacing workers, here, cobots
can empower workers who want to work alongside robots. This has the potential to reignite a passion for automation and robotics with those who can share the cobot vision and
Rather than replacing workers, here, cobots can empower workers who want to work alongside robots.
future potential, even much earlier in the process than originally considered.
COBOTS OF THE FUTURE Cobots need to be programmed, operated, and maintained. They enable creative problem solving and inspire solution-orientated thinking. These machines can now step in to tackle heavy, tedious or unpleasant tasks, freeing their human colleagues up for more high-value work that requires more thought or a considered human
touch.The key to success is using these new technologies effiectively in roles that bring tangible benefits to a supply chain, where speed is of the essence as is the requirements for safety, maximum efficiency and flexibility.
Garry Lewis, Market Development Manager at Omron
SETTING THE SCENE End of line palletising is one example that is perfectly suited to use of cobots automation. The simple yet repetitive and physically demanding process of getting goods stacked has traditionally led to complications when performed manually. In today’s world, staff shortages and an ageing workforce are holding back on an ability to operate and capitalise on the post-pandemic supply and demand. Most robotic palletisers are still large, bulky systems
14 NOVEMBER 2022 | FACTORY&HANDLINGSOLUTIONS
that take up significant space in an environment where it is at a premium. Space requirements in factories and warehouses, especially during end-of- line processes, is an important challenge in robotic palletiser implementation. Robotic palletisers can positively impact the
safety of employees, removing a significant cause of RSIs and more severe injuries. However they do introduce new machinery into the workplace, presenting a different kind of risk. Palletisers must be installed and appropriately secured, plus staff have to be adequately trained to ensure safe use. They require safety considerations through fencing and light guards, which can increase the space palletisers use. Additionally, software design for robotic palletisers can often be based on complex programming languages that require costly and time-consuming training to master.
THE COBOT VISION At first glance, the hurdles to implement robotic palletisers may seem too great. Recognising these challenges, Omron in
collaboration with Reeco, has developed a new approach to end of line palletising. Creating an easy, flexible, safe, and compact solution to getting stock palletised and ready for transport. The RB1200 is designed for small footprint
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50
