Many different robots are used in manufacturing. Today’s four main types of robots used in manufacturing are spot welding, assembly line, painting, and quality control. These are the most commonly used types of industrial robots today and are utilized by many industries across the globe.
Spot Welding Robots
This robot is often used to weld car parts on an assembly line. Spot welding involves using high-powered electric currents to join two pieces of metal together seamlessly.
These exact machines use sensors to locate where to place welds on car parts and other objects, ensuring that the final product is consistent and free from defects or weaknesses.
Collaborative Robots
These robots work together with humans to improve productivity. They have a limited range of movement and perform tasks that are too dangerous for humans to do. This type of robot is helpful in product assembly, machine tending, or welding operations or where the task requires frequent repositioning.
Assembly Robots
These robots work with minimal guidance and perform repetitive tasks such as packaging, inspection, dispensing, and material handling. Although they have limited dexterity, assembly robots can handle a variety of products with features such as multiple parts or irregular shapes.
Factory Automation Robots
These robots do the bulk of the manufacturing process by operating machinery in complex production lines using programs that direct their actions. They tend to be heavy-duty machines that must operate 24 hours a day under the circumstances such as changing temperatures and noise levels.
These types of robots need significant investment both in terms of money and time because they require extensive programming when first set up.
Industrial Robots
Industrial robots are typically used for large-scale manufacturing processes. They can be programmed to perform various tasks, including material handling, spot welding, coating, dispensing, and press operations. These exact machines help companies streamline their production processes and improve efficiency and quality.
Articulated Industrial Robot Arms
Also called multi-axis or gantry machines, articulated industrial robot arms are used in manufacturing to perform multiple tasks such as material handling, welding, painting, and assembly. They tend to be large machines that require a large amount of space when operating, and these robots can move around their work area freely and complete complex tasks.
Mobile Robots
Mobile robots are employed in various settings and applications, from industrial floor cleaning to autonomous vehicles on city streets. These robots move around autonomously to perform various tasks, including material handling and transportation, product assembly, and inspection.
Mobile robots have also provided environmental monitoring, such as measuring air quality or detecting factory spills. As technology advances, we expect to see more mobile robots used in manufacturing and other settings.
Service Robots
Service robots, designed for use in specific environments, such as hospitals or hotels, help automate tasks that would otherwise require human labor. These highly specialized machines are often equipped with advanced sensors and machine-learning capabilities to improve their performance over time.
While automation has been a hallmark of manufacturing processes for many years, using robots in these environments is becoming increasingly prevalent. Whether you’re looking to improve efficiency, quality, or safety, several different types of robots can help you achieve your goals.
Assistive Robots
Used to help people with disabilities or the elderly, assistive robots help improve the quality of life by making it easier for people to complete everyday tasks. These machines range from simple wheeled platforms designed to transport objects to highly sophisticated robotic arms that provide gripping and lifting assistance.
Regardless of their design or intended application, assistive robots have the potential to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives.
While many different types of robots are available for manufacturing operations, each has unique strengths and capabilities that make them well-suited for particular tasks. By understanding the benefits and limitations of each robot type, manufacturers can select the best solution for their specific needs and goals.
The Future Of Manufacturing
If you’re interested in learning more about robotics in manufacturing, several resources are available to help you get started.
For example, professional organizations like the Robotic Industries Association (RIA) and the Robotics Education & Competition Foundation offer educational resources, training programs, and networking opportunities that can help you stay up-to-date on the latest advances in robotics technology.
Additionally, online platforms like YouTube and Udemy offer a wide range of free or low-cost educational videos and courses that can help you gain a deeper understanding of robotics concepts.
So if you’re looking to incorporate robots into your manufacturing operations, there’s no better time than now to get started! With so many options available, there’s sure to be a robot type that is right for your specific needs.
