Robots

Adept Technology, Inc. Cybernetix Fanuc Ltd

Flow International Corporation Groupe Finuchem Helpmate Robotics

ORII & MEC CORPORATION Robogroup T.e.k Limited Yaskawa Electric Corporation

Guide to Robots

Increase efficiency and safety using automation robots
By Thomas Walton

Robots have a myriad of uses, whether they are designed for industrial manufacturing uses, such as welding robots, or simply for promotional purposes, like getting kids excited about science and engineering.

Although there is still a long way to go in the realm of artificial intelligence behind these robots, businesses and store merchants think robots are a great way to draw people into a store. And why not? Robots are intriguing to people of all ages. Consider learning about robotic components and the market for robots in your industry:

1. Learn which types of robots are currently on the market.

2. Evaluate suppliers of robotic components.

3. Use a non-profit third-party service to evaluate robotic equipment providers before you purchase.

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Watch the market for robotic systems, robotic components and robotic equipment trends It is the same with purchasing robots as it is with purchasing commercial real estate: you learn by watching others who go before you. Why not let others tell you how they've fared with robots, as well? Make sure any third party site you visit for information is non-profit, and evaluates the suppliers for quality and industry standards.

I recommend:  Track current robotic systems trends by subscribing to the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society RSS feed. Get a listing for suppliers of robotic equipment through Underwriters Laboratories.

Prepare for the upkeep of welding automation robots to improve accuracy and productivity Welding robots may require frequent recalibration or reprogramming, so be prepared for the expense and downtime. Contact an engineering consulting company that specializes in welding robots for the pre-purchase guidance you'll need.

I recommend:  Kawasaki Robotics features a standard 6-axis robotic arm with a seventh axis that is optional. Look into Industrial 101 automation robots to take over other monotonous tasks.

Find suppliers of industrial robots that will help keep service costs down from the start The cost of industrial robots is not limited to purchase price. Some robots cost roughly $60,000. Putting the robot into your production line rings up another $200,000. The cost of reprogramming the robot for new tasks is more than it would cost the average industrialist to purchase a new robot.

I recommend:  Carefully evaluate your needs for robots. Inquire about programming and reprogramming costs. One option for saving money is to purchase robotic tool changers from ATI. And, remember to do business with robot components suppliers like ABB that have tech support ready all hours of the day, any day of the week, all year round.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Manufacturers and consultants can offer referrals for small business owners looking for cost-effective robotics solutions. Contact engineering consultants who specialize in automated robotics for all the latest industry news. Ask businesses that host promotional robots for their supplier recommendations, and ensure that you buy robots for industry from companies that offer all the maintenance, recalibration and reprogramming services you'll need.