Work completed by robot-based lines is precise. The level of this precision is determined by the key units – robots the accuracy of which forces all the devices cooperating in the system to operate equally perfectly.
HOW TO DETERMINE THE PRECISION OF ROBOTS?
There are two basic parameters that describe the precision of robots.
1. The repeatability of a robot’s operation
Their main parameter proving the precision of a robot is the repeatability of its movements, and specifically the repeatability of its arrival at a point. This is measured in mm as the greatest deviation from the movement path designed. This parameter takes different values for particular series and versions of robots, which differ in terms of their overall dimensions, empty weight, lifting capacity, their arm’s range, work speed etc. And so the robots designed for precise works, for instance SCARA, show a deviation of 0.01 mm, and universal robots – 0.04 mm. However, in any case the repeatability of the robots is very high.
2. Constant Path
Another parameter which proves the precision of a robot is Constant Path, namely maintaining the same movement path when approaching specific points, regardless of changes in the global speed of the machine. In practice, this means that:
- upon each stoppage, the robot returns to the path programmed
- the robot stays on the same movement path, regardless of a change in the speed at particular movement stages
- the robot moves linearly along an indicated section, regardless of the speed.
The following numerous positive effects resulting from the precision of the robots and other devices included in the palletizing and packaging lines are worth noting:
Reduced product losses
The absence of the robots’ random movements and their accuracy ensure that the product being palletized remains undamaged e.g. as a result of: impacts, falling, crushing, breakage etc. The scale of the benefits resulting from eliminating the shortages varies depending on the nature of the production. Usually their effect on the efficiency of the manufacturing process is noticeable. However, in some cases, it becomes significant for the general results of the plant. As in the case of laying piles of fragile ceramic elements, when the enterprise has recorded a drop in the shortages of more than 20%!
High final quality
Precisely palletized stacks help secure the product during warehousing and transporting. They also improve the aesthetics of deliveries, and thus the company’s image according to its clients.
Resource Savings
The savings of resources obtained as a result of the precision of the devices working in the palletizing and packaging lines are multidimensional. These could refer to:
- the size of the work area (surface or volume)
- the number of employees
- the consumption of consumables
- the utilities consumed, e.g. electricity.
