Robotic Machine Tending

Machine tending takes various names including robotic machine tending and automated machine tending which are all definitions of the same action. Machine tending therefore is to load or unload a given machine with parts or material. Most applications involving machine tending are done by humans; to help load or unload parts.

However, since qualified workers are becoming hard to secure companies introduce robots to make up for lack of employees. Typically this involves a computer numerical machine (CNC). The robotic machine tending system has to communicate with the CNC machine in one form or another and thus it will have to perform a few different functions in a single application.

Common applications of machine tending include: milling and turning, grinding, compression molds, injection molds, forging, punching, and trimming, welding and punching. To be specific the processes completed vary but the common function is the loading and unloading of material parts.

Benefits of Robotic Machine Tending

Below is a detailed review of some of the advantages of robotic machine tending.

Improved uptime

With regards to machine tending uptime improves drastically. Robotic tending machines only stop for regular maintenance in comparison to manual laborers who suffer fatigue and at times work related injuries. This is crucial because the machine being tended to is not limited by manual labor. A gain in uptime leads to productivity increment by boosting machine throughput.

Accuracy

Robotic machine tending systems are more accurate and repeatable compared to manual loading or unloading. Accuracy increases the quality of parts produced but also helps reduce the extent of error in the various machining processes.

This will in turn maximize throughput and minimize wastage of raw materials. Accuracy of tending systems also guarantees uniformity in the work done which guarantees quality something that manual loading or unloading does not possess.

Compact solution

Working space in production facilities normally is at a premium. Machine tending systems have a small occupancy footprint, this is in comparison to manual laborers who require more working space with regards to industrial health and safety standards.

Robotic machine tending systems come compact and as standard most come fitted with water and dust protection. Also to keep cables from the system out of harm’s way they are routed through the wrist. Various machine tending models are compact enough to be fixed inside the machine thus do not occupy space.

Injection molding

Robotic machine tending is invaluable when it comes to injection molding. Injection molding includes; parts removal, screw cutting, labelling, laser engraving and adding inserts. These processes normally cannot be handled by manual laborers due to the risks involved. These processes increase throughput in a variety of tasks and reduce the risk of damage to machine parts.

Less expensive option

Robotic machine tending is a viable option even for small businesses due to their comprehensive range of flexible standalone solutions. Machine tending is easier and cheaper than people think it is majorly because it provides considerable benefits even on small production runs.

This becomes evident because of the tedious, dirty and dangerous process of tending to machines that makes it hard to find manual operators. Machine tending programs are recyclable once created and can be called upon in any eventuality.

Machine learning

Machine learning is the analysis of algorithms and statistical models that computer systems use to perform a specific task without relying on explicit instruction. But rather relying on patterns and inference instead. Machine learning makes tending systems very fast in comparison to manual operators.

This stems from machines being automated. Machines do not second guess their work because act on processing power rather instinct. Speed is very crucial because it will decrease the time spent on fixing the machines and maximize on time spent on production.

Conclusion

To sum up robotic machine tending as illustrated above has covered all niches and shortcomings associated with manual operators. It is also key to note that both machines and manual operators have to work hand in hand to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.