Cost-effective, flexible automation is essential to tackle the challenges that the automotive industry is currently facing, including labour shortages, skill gaps, rising costs, strict regulatory compliance and quality issues.
Universal Robots is the number one 'cobot' brand worldwide. The UR range of 6-axis robot arms has an eco-system of compatible products and application solutions that make it simple to automate almost any task. From the latest developments in AI and 3D vision to cutting-edge safety solutions and surface finishing technology, there is a range of emerging products that have the potential to change the game for automotive manufacturers.
GuideNOW Robot Guidance from Inbolt
GuideNOW is a real-time 3D vision robot guidance solution, powered by AI. The system can quickly process large amounts of 3D data and determine the position and orientation of a workpiece. GuideNOW adapts the robot's trajectory in real-time.
The solution reduces automation costs and improves flexibility by enabling the robot to work in all types of environments: structured, semi-structured, and unstructured. Real-time robot guidance makes it possible to react dynamically to unplanned events.
Cambrian Vision AI Vision Technology from Cambrian Robotics
Cambrian Vision was developed for cost-efficient, fast and robust robotic bin picking, pick and place, machine feeding, assembly and other applications that require accurate robot vision. The technology can detect a wide range of part types including shiny metal and plastic.
With prediction times of approximately 0.2 seconds and the ability to detect parts with sub mm levels of accuracy, Cambrian Vision is fast and accurate. The innovative vision system is designed to work in challenging light conditions using AI models for part detection.
End-of-Arm-Safeguard (EOAS) from SICK
The End-of-Arm-Safeguard from SICK is an innovative safety system for collaborative robot applications. Designed to facilitate interaction with the robot, the EOAS creates a protective field around the robot tool. Thanks to contactless technology, the robot stops before a collision occurs, then automatically restarts when it is safe to do so.
Typical applications that would benefit from the End-of-Arm-Safeguard include pick and place, machine tending, handling and assembly. The End-of-Arm-Safeguard has a certified URCap, making it easy to program and deploy.
Mirka® AIRP 300 – New Rotary Polishing Tool for Robotic Use
Industries like automotive manufacturing now have access to a new and powerful polishing tool. The AIRP (Automated Industrial Rotary Polisher) 300 is a durable polisher with a 77 mm pad and an ISO 9409-1 compatible flange for mechanical robot coupling. It's an appliance that enables efficient precise surface polishing for modern automation solutions.
AIRP 300 is an updated and improved version of the widely popular AIROP 312NV. Just like the AIROP, the new AIRP is fully compatible with Mirka’s motor drive cabinets and supports Modbus and Profinet communications. The key difference from the older AIROP model is that the AIRP offers rotary polishing instead of random orbital polishing. Rotary polishing is more effective than orbital, and it’s also more precise for polishing sharp angles and curved surfaces.
Conclusion
With advancements in AI robot vision, end-of-arm safety devices and rotary polishing for robotic use, there are more options than ever for automotive manufacturers looking to explore new avenues in manufacturing automation. As technology continues to evolve, collaborative robot automation offers automotive manufacturers the high levels product quality, efficiency and safety required to maintain a competitive edge.
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