Robotics explained

Robotic Assembly

Robotics are a highly flexible tool that perform a variety of functions. Assembly robotics ensure the speed and accuracy of assembly. You're also able to operate around the clock with limited human operator intervention. These robotic assembly cells can be integrated across your production line or to perform specific assembly tasks requiring accuracy. From a safety perspective, robotics can serve as an alternative to human workers when operating in dangerous environments. Often, Facteon can integrate robotic cells to your existing production line. This allows manufacturers to automate a particular process while avoiding a full production line redesign.

Robotics for Quality Control

Robots are a staple in every smart manufacturer's quality control team. A quality control robot is an industrial robot that measures a single or multiple data points on a product. These robots are usually integrated as robotic cells so manufacturers can automate the quality control function while avoiding a large-scale production line redesign.

Quality control robots are often chosen over human operators for a multitude of reasons. Human operators can be inaccurate with which data is recorded compounded by transcription from handwritten notes to a digitised system. Inaccurate data entry can create challenges for manufacturers looking to make decisions based on production trends. Of course, a manufacturer is unable to make good decisions based on bad data. For that reason, robots are often selected as, compared to a human operator, a robot takes critical product measurements with greater accuracy and speed.

Cobots

Cobots are industrial robots that work in collaboration with human operators to perform a variety of functions. Manufacturers often introduce cobots to improve the accuracy of the placement of parts and to reduce waste. A cobot can also be programmed to identify parts before they are included in a product. Many cobots are equipped with safety mechanisms that allow them to operate effectively. Cobots compliment humans by freeing them from completing mundane, repetitive tasks and allowing them to better apply their skills elsewhere in your factory. Ultimately, cobots have the potential to increase accuracy, cycle time and product yield. Facteon is a Universal Robots distributor.

Transfers & Materials Handling

Facteon also designs and integrates automated transfer and material handling systems. We offer a range of loading systems from manual pre-load to vision-assisted part selection and automatic load. All transfer systems are optimised for accuracy, delicacy and cycle time. Facteon destackers, for example, use fanner magnets for pre-separation. Vacuum cup and peel mechanisms to pick and place each individual sheet for line in-feed. Facteon destackers feature servo-positioning, blank eject, accumulation, multiple sheet detection, as well as accurate datuming. The cosmetic face of the material remains in an upwards facing position to prevent damage during the manufacturing process.

Robotic Pick & Place

Facteon has a flexible approach to robotics integration through working with a variety of respected robotics companies. We also custom design Cartesian Facteon robots in-house for integration with our machinery. Pick and place robots have multiple applications in a smart manufacturing facility, such as assembly and bin packing. Robots equipped with machine vision are able to identify specific components for loading onto the production line. Using robotics for the loading and unloading of parts ensures accuracy and increases the speed of the loading process.

Robotic Fastening

Facteon has expertise in a variety of robotic welding methods and clinching solutions. Facteon welding systems include spot, laser and plasma to join the wrapper and panels. The clinching methods range from proprietary, self-riveting systems to flange seam locks. Flexibility can be achieved using six-axis robots. Facteon can also implement toxing and clinching machinery for the joining of sheet metal.