Improve production efficiency with automation technology
Automation technology is one of the “hot” trends, which many businesses are interested in and invested in in the industrial era 4.0. The use of automation equipment and machinery increases productivity, minimizes dependence on people, and improves product quality better. Improving production efficiency with automation technology is one of the solutions that businesses and companies are interested in finding and applying. In our today’s article will help you better understand the benefits and applications of automation technology in production.
In the 4.0 industrial age, automatic technology is one of the “on-trend” developments that numerous companies are interested in and making investments in. Utilizing automatic lines and machines could reduce reliance on labor as well as enhance product quality. Industries of all kinds are interested in implementing solutions that would increase production efficiency. Ideally, they may learn more about the advantages and applications of automation technology in production in the article published today.
1. Learn about manufacturing technologies
In modern industry, the application of technology is an effective solution to improve production efficiency and reduce dependence on people. Some of important concepts include:
1.1. Automation technology
Software automation
Automation technology is the process of automating tasks that were previously performed by humans, using computer programs. Areas of application of this technology include: business process automation (BPA), using software to optimize and standardize business processes, automating processes with robotic process automation (RPA), using robotic technology to simulate human use of computer programs, and intelligent process automation (IPA), including the use of artificial intelligence to study how humans perform tasks using computer programs.
The difference between BPA and RPA tends to not exist to much different. Since whereas BPA will be like replacing human production lines with automatic manufacturing, RPA is like adding a robot to support an existing workforce.
Production automation
Automatic technology in production is the control of physical processes by machines and control systems to automate industrial processes. Robots are used in this type of physical automation except for non-robot machines.
1.2. Robotic technology
Modern robots are built to interact with the physical environment through the use of sensors and actuators, performing tasks automatically or somewhat independently. These smart techniques thus have more versatility along with are able to carry out more jobs than single-function machines because of their programmability.
Collaborative robots are made to perform activities more thoroughly than human beings, whereas standard robotic technology seems to only be set up to accomplish the same duties. Given that they can operate rapidly and precisely, they have a lot of potential for improving efficiency and streamlining manufacturing.
However, the use of robotic technology also needs to be scrutinized as it is a relatively new technology and requires highly specialized knowledge and skills. It is necessary to calculate the cost of investment, operation, staff training and maintenance systems before putting robots into use.
2. What are the benefits of using robots in production automation?
2.1. Accuracy and Consistency
Errors occur often during human-powered production in the industrial process and are unavoidable. The degree of mistake increases and has a direct impact on the product’s quality when workers are involved in the manufacturing line. To combat these issues, robotic systems that function precisely and consistently in their outputs will be used. Errors are thereby greatly reduced, increasing the production line’s productivity and efficiency. Businesses and organizations may decrease their reliance on human resources, cut expenses, and raise the quality of their products by utilizing automation technology methods.
2.2. Perfect Versatility
In the past when producing new products, the factory had to rebuild the infrastructure of the production line to accommodate that product. This costs time and money. However, software-controlled robots allow users to reprogram them at any time to adapt to design changes and new products without having to overhaul the infrastructure of automatic control lines.
If production is on the line, workers will need to be retrained or notified of any changes, which further takes up production time. Instead of using personnel, flexible software applying the automatic lines can help to reduce personnel, thus somehow also making the production process more seamless. This versatility is important for products that are frequently upgraded, such as electronic products.
2.3. Work better than humans
There are hazards involved with working on manufacturing lines, especially with regard to employee health and safety. This is steadily rising in importance among manufacturers’ and employees’ top concerns. Robotic system advancements can assist in reducing or even completely remove the risk of damage to workers, allowing them to take part in production-related activities where there are less potential hazards.
Several employees are concerned that automation in the workplace would result in the loss of jobs for people. But the reality is just the reverse. Humans are promoted into more relevant roles where their talents and abilities may be utilized and developed by automating tedious and laborious work. The acquisition of new abilities will also result in job advancement and higher personal income.
Automation in production also has the added advantage of generating brand-new positions. Software developers, programmers, and other experts will be needed to keep automated manufacturing lines operating as efficiently as possible. Robots will also require maintenance.
2.4. Future-proof
In order to survive in today’s competitive and rapidly changing industry landscape and at the same time remain profitable, it is necessary to keep up with technological developments and master them ahead of competitors.
In general, those who use technology earlier will have more advantages, while those who do not adapt will soon become obsolete and “eliminated”. The automated and robotic manufacturing industry is becoming an important business and should be taken seriously. Now is the right time to act and adapt to this trend.
3. Applications of robots in production automation
As we all know, robots are an integral part of modern production automation. The adoption of robots in automation lines increases productivity, improves and reduces time, production costs increase the quality of many products, as well as improve occupational safety and reduce dependence on workers. Applications of robots in production automation include:
- Product assembly: Robots are used to perform assembly jobs, use the right tools, perform high precision and quickly.
- Paint and spray: Robots are used to paint or spray certain liquids such as paint, glue or chemicals. With high accuracy, robots can ensure uniformity and cost savings.
- Transportation and handling: Robots can be used to transport and unload products and materials during production. This will reduce the time and costs involved, while increasing production productivity.
- Quality Inspection: Robots can be used to check product quality, thereby ensuring that manufactured products are of high quality and meet standards.
- Monitoring and maintenance: Robots can be used to monitor the manufacturing process and perform maintenance tasks such as replacing filters and other parts.
- Product testing and inspection: Robots are used to inspect products, ensuring that they meet the standards and technical requirements set.
4. Experience automation technology at VME
With over 38 years of experience, RX Tradex has successfully optimized its connectivity system by combining elements of Event Strategy, financial control, lean operations, and integrated communications. This has enabled RX Tradex to prove its effectiveness in creating diverse networks across multiple industries industry.
The VME International Expo organized by RX Tradex is one of the great venues for customers to visit and experience the latest automation technology in the manufacturing industry. Here, leading companies in the field of automation demonstrate the most advanced products and solutions, from automation robots to production management automation systems. Businesses can witness automated robots assembling, painting and spraying or using automation technology to replace shipping and check product quality. They can also learn and experience software management automation solutions, from production management systems to connectivity solutions and data analytics.
With the continuous development of automation technology, VME international exhibition is one of the great opportunities for customers to update the latest trends and learn about the most advanced solutions in the manufacturing industry.