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Many manufacturing companies could benefit by implementing a form of automation into their production process, whether it be across their full product line or just a single robot.
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Introduction

While Automation has come to mean the use of robotics and machines to reduce or replace work previously done by human workers in the manufacturing process, robotics is only one aspect of how manufacturing automation works.

Automation is any type of machine or device used to perform a process without, or with reduced, intervention from a person.

Robotics is a type of automation which involves the use of a machine, usually, a mechanical arm, which can move in three.

or more directions, that can be used to complete material handling and pick-and-place tasks faster and more efficiently than manpower alone.

The introduction of automation often improves productivity by allowing staff to focus on more complex, higher value-add, or more intricate and interesting tasks. Other benefits of automation include improved health and safety, increased material utilisation, higher quality products, reduced cycle times and reduced lead times.

What is the difference between automation and robotics?

Although the terms "automation" and "robotics" are sometimes used interchangeably in manufacturing, there are some important differences between them.

Automation is the process of using technology to complete repetitive tasks with little variation in a process, while Robotics is the use of specifically designing robots to perform specific tasks. Automation is usually purpose-built self-operating machines that perform a repetitive task usually done by a person. Automation follows a pre-determined sequence.

Robotics is applied when a more flexible approach is needed, such as coping with several different product types, or when a purpose-built machine isn’t available. A robot replaces the need for human action.

Collaborative robots are designed to work safely in the same space as people without the need for safety barriers and can be used for a wide variety of tasks, such as assisted assembly, packing, welding, machine loading, and palletising.
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Collaborative robots or industrial robots?

Cobots also don’t require extensive experience to program and are flexible, allowing them to be quickly moved and repurposed for a different task.

Industrial robots are used for tasks requiring higher speed, heavier tools or products, or in harsher environments. Industrial robots require safety cages and often need specialist programming skills. If you think about the robots used for welding, assembling, or painting cars on a production line, these are industrial robots.

While useful, automation and robotics may not be the right solution for every manufacturing process or production line. Low-volume or delicate production process would not be suitable for a robotics solution.

Made Smarter can help your manufacturing business to define problems and find a solution that suits them. Once a solution has been determined, our advisor’s team can help you access grant funding as well as provide ongoing help and support.

Case Studies - Our impact as told by our clients in Automation and Robotics
Bloom-in-Box
Embracing technology to drive eco innovation

An innovative eco-friendly plastics manufacturer, supported by Made Smarter, is using state-of-the art robotics and process control technology to increase productivity by at least 25%.

Bloom-in-Box (Bloom) designs, manufactures and sells products including floristry packaging, security spike systems, laundry pegs, and scoops and measures.

The Burscough-based family business, run by David Reardon and his children Tom and Hannah, has grown significantly over the last 18 months and reached production capacity.

With the support of Made Smarter it has invested in an electrical injection moulding machine which increases production speed and quality, enabling the business to increase production capacity by between 25-40%.

The technology will also enable data and systems integration, collecting and displaying real-time data which can be monitored remotely.

The investment will enable Bloom to develop products quickly for new markets, and take a major step towards creating a smart factory.

Case Study - Bloom-in-Box
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