068
ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION
Australia needs robots The case for integrated robotics. By Meighan Heard, Executive Director, Commercial and Corporate Mitsubishi Electric. Almost every day the media reports on prominent businesspeople, government representatives, or politicians who have highlighted the urgent need for Australia to achieve ‘productivity improvements, including maintaining and enhancing our quality of life. This is critical in a world of ever-changing demands, an ageing workforce and fluctuating labour availability, where the pressure to improve performance and enhance responsiveness to shifting needs has never been greater. In fact, a recent intergenerational report by the Australian Institute has noted that Australia’s productivity levels have fallen in previous years. Yet improvements in productivity continue to be elusive for many businesses. One solution for manufacturers lies in the seamless integration of robotics to optimise performance, increase efficiency, and ensure top-notch productivity. As robotic technology continues to evolve and seamlessly integrate with control systems, both electrically and mechanically, the cost of adoption decreases. This reduction in pricing, combined with simplified programming, revolutionises the design, operation, and maintenance of robotic systems. Below are some reasons why manufacturers need to look to integrated robotics for productivity enhancing benefits.
Streamlined communications and enhanced coordination The integration of information transfers and controlled machine behaviour is paramount to manufacturers achieving increased productivity and managing fluctuations in labour and demand. Direct communication between controllers and planning or warehouse systems plays a pivotal role in ongoing optimisation efforts and the pursuit of maximum efficiency. By integrating robots into the system, speed and coordination are significantly improved, minimising the need for constant operator intervention and extensive training. For example, the immediate reporting of maintenance needs ensures swift scheduling of necessary downtime, preventing production losses. This approach optimises the availability of parts and services at the right times, thereby maintaining and improving operational efficiency.
Real-time monitoring and analysis Going beyond simple integration is something that all manufacturers should consider. Robot behaviour and production
AMT DEC/JAN 2024
status can be logged, monitored and saved to the Human-Machine Interface (HMI). This generates real-time data which provides operators with instant insights and analysis, ensuring prompt decisions can be made. The same HMI then serves as a dualpurpose tool for both production operation and maintenance troubleshooting. The HMI can be custom designed to meet specific needs. For example, operators and maintenance personnel can access specific screens tailored to their requirements. This safeguard ensures sensitive data can remain secure while also facilitating efficient management. Authorised users can reprogram and reconfigure robots using the same interface, enhancing adaptability and operational efficiency.
The cloud connection: Scaling behaviour monitoring For industries embracing multiple robots and integrated machines, such as AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) or ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems), it may be beneficial to connect fleet information to the cloud. This enables large-scale behaviour monitoring and anomaly detection, a crucial strategy for predictive maintenance and seamless demand fulfilment.
The integration of robots into cloudbased systems also provides valuable insights into predictive behaviours and maintenance requirements at scale. This ensures production continuity, creates a safer environment for workers and reduces the risk of damage to equipment.
Robotic advancements: Precision and handling redefined Advancements in robotics have opened a realm of possibilities for end-of-arm tooling. These include grippers, pinchers, magnets, vacuums, and suction devices, coupled with integrated vision systems. This comprehensive integration at the end of the robotic arm enhances package placements, reduces maintenance costs, and simplifies mechanical complexities. Shaping tomorrow: adaptability
Collaboration
and
The future of robotics lies in collaboration. With advanced sensors and safety capabilities, robots are becoming more adaptable, capable of working intelligently alongside humans. This calls for increased integration of automation systems to ensure seamless cooperation and interference avoidance. au.mitsubishielectric.com