Assembly/equipment operationSet it on the jig, attach it to the machine, and press the button.
Assembling, setting on jigs, and attaching/detaching to machine tools are processes that have continued to be carried out by humans because the quantity is not suitable for dedicated equipment. For dual-arm robots and humanoids, you can consider automation by using existing jigs and equipment as is.
Consult about assembly and equipment operation
For processes where the quantity is not large enough to require dedicated equipment
The reason why assembly and setting on jigs remains a manual task is that in many cases the quantity does not justify the investment in specialized equipment. In a field where high-mix, low-volume production requires frequent set-up changes, the quantity of each product cannot be produced enough to use a dedicated machine.
Dual-armed robots and humanoids could potentially fit into this realm. The jigs, workbench heights, and equipment operation panels that have been used by humans can be used as they are, so modifications to peripheral equipment can be kept to a minimum.
However, tasks that require precision alignment and control of force are still not easy. The premise is to narrow down the target, verify it on robot, and identify the conditions that hold true.
Targeted work
Setting/removing from jig
The work of placing and removing the workpiece before and after processing on the jig. Check with the robot whether the existing jig can be used as is.
Assembly
The work of fitting parts together. Since precision in positioning and force adjustment is required, we will start with targeted verification.
machine tending
Attachment and detachment to machine tools. Verify whether it can be handled as a series of steps, including opening/closing doors and button operations.
Button/lever operation
Work that involves touching equipment operation panels. A major advantage of using a humanoid is that it can be automated without modifying the equipment.
Screw tightening/fixing
Consider a configuration in which a tool is provided or a dedicated hand is attached. The configuration changes depending on whether torque management is required.
Appearance confirmation/inspection
A camera is mounted to record the data, which can be used to automate judgments. Recording and judgment proceed in stages.
Conditions that affect feasibility
- Positioning accuracy
- How much deviation is allowed? The higher the required accuracy, the more important is the design of the jig and position correction.
- Necessity of adjusting force
- Force control is required for tasks such as pushing and fitting. Depending on the target, force sensors may be considered.
- Object variation
- Are they the same shape, or are there individual differences? The greater the variation, the more emphasis is placed on visual perception and learning.
- Frequency of setup changes
- What needs to be changed each time the variety changes? The amount of time it takes to switch over will determine the effectiveness of the implementation.
- Relationship with existing equipment
- Jigs, operation panels, safety equipment. See how far you can use it as is.
- Takt time
- Is it necessary to have the same speed as humans, or can it be achieved even if it is slower? This is where the big decision is made.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the existing jig as is?
In many cases, we start by checking the robot to see if it can be used as is. While jigs made for humans are compatible with humanoid and dual-arm robot, there may be restrictions on the gripping position and approach angle. First, we will verify it in person.
How accurate can it be?
It varies depending on the robot, hand, and position correction configuration. If you let us know the required accuracy and allowable deviation, we will suggest a possible configuration. If the requirements are strict, a design that combines positioning on the jig side is practical.
Is it necessary to modify the equipment?
The advantage of using a humanoid, dual-armed robot is that buttons and levers can be operated without modifying the equipment. We propose a configuration that minimizes modification, but measures to ensure safety must be considered separately.
Is it effective even if you use a large variety of products in small quantities?
In fact, it makes more sense to use a versatile machine for low-volume, high-mix production where specialized equipment is difficult to assemble. However, the effects will be canceled out if the setup changes take a lot of effort, so we will consider the changeover design as well.
Actual machine verification of assembly and equipment operation
Please let us know the target work, the jigs and equipment used, and the required accuracy and tact. We will work with you from the point of determining the conditions that hold true using robot.
Consult about assembly and equipment operation