Science fiction films dating back to Fritz Lang’s 1927 classic, Metropolis, have long warned that robotic machines may eventually surpass and dominate their human inventors. While there is no doubt that robots and robotic devices are getting smarter, that artificial intelligence continues to evolve, and that driverless cars are becoming a reality, so far we humans are more likely at risk of a Zombie Apocalypse than a robot rebellion.
A collaboration between Gosiger Automation, Okuma, Fanuc and Kitagawa work holding produced this robotically automated machining cell that significantly reduces the time and labor associated with part-to-part changeovers.
The battle to reduce production costs, improve product quality, and satisfy customer demands is fought daily in the world of CNC manufacturing. One of the most effective strategies facilities of all sizes can employ is robotic automation – whether for a single production cell or an entire factory.
Manually loading and unloading workpieces is not only tedious, repetitious work for machine tool operators, it also adds time and labor costs to every part you make. Automating the process using an industrial robot can reduce these costs while giving your shop’s productivity a significant boost. Now Gosiger Automation reduces the cost of robotic automation with its Flexible Pallet Cell (FPC).
For CNC machine shops considering their first move into robotic automation and for many typical part-making applications, Gosiger Automation developed the Modular Drawer Cell (MDC). This compact, lower-cost alternative to custom systems automates up to 2 mid-size CNC lathes, grinders and machining centers to increase efficiencies by up to 50%.
Robotic automation is transforming modern manufacturing by eliminating repetitive, labor-intensive functions thus freeing machine operators to concentrate on programming, setup and other important tasks. As a result, they enable manufacturers to be more productive and competitive. Here are a few facts about industrial robots you may not be aware of.
Gosiger Automation recently worked with a manufacturer of rotors used in air compressors that wanted to improve the productivity of its grinding operation. The company was also concerned with employee health and safety issues due to the heavy lifting required of their grinding machine operators.
It seems like the pressure on manufacturers just keeps building. The competition is coming at you from down the street, around the corner and across the water. Costs for qualified operators (if you can find them), health care, materials and energy keep rising, while customers demand higher quality, lower prices and faster delivery.
Now that you understand how robotics can be a viable solution no matter the size of your manufacturing operation, you may wonder if automation is right for your particular needs. How can you tell if robotics are right for your business? Simply ask yourself these questions:
Since their invention, robotics for parts machining production have been associated with their fair share of myths. With today’s robotics, according to Mark Eddy, Gosiger Automation Division President, these myths are not defensible.