Within industrial production, the automation of end-of-line tasks is essential to ensure quality and efficiency in production processes. End-of-line robots can automate this type of tasks thanks to their autonomy, precision and versatility. In particular, Mobile Manipulator Robots are a valuable aid for this last step in the production chain.

The end-of-line is the last stage of the production process, where finished products go through final operations before being stored or distributed. Some examples of end-of-line tasks include quality control, parts handling, packaging, labeling, or order picking.

Combining the advantages of an AMR with those of a robotic arm results in end-of-line robots such as RB-KAIROS+, capable of moving around an infrastructure, handling objects autonomously and performing various end-of-line tasks with high efficiency and flexibility.

pick and place robot

What end-of-line tasks can robots perform?

A mobile manipulator robot can automate a wide range of common tasks in the final stages of production processes:

  • Robotics for quality control: RB-KAIROS+ can measure and verify parts by detecting defects or imperfections with greater precision than a manual inspection. This autonomous visual inspection is achieved through artificial vision, cameras or ending tools such as OnRobot Eyes.
  • Robotics for handling and sorting parts: Another common end-of-line task is collecting parts from conveyor belts or workstations and placing and sorting them in designated locations for distribution or storage. For a correct classification, robots are based on parameters such as size, color or QR code.
  • Robotics for packing: Packing requires precision and reliability to guarantee that the product does not suffer damage in the handling process for packaging. RB-KAIROS+ can stack boxes or products weighing up to 16 kg, depending on the Universal Robots arm it integrates. Here you can check the 3 available options.
  • Robotics for line replenishment: Replenishment of stations or production lines is also a recurring need. An autonomous mobile manipulator can execute Pick and Place to replace missing materials or tools, saving operators the loss of time that this process entails.
  • Robotics for post-processing: Tasks such as labeling or marking can be the previous step to distribution. Polishing can also be considered a post-processing task that manipulators perform on metal or plastic parts, removing sharp edges or irregularities.

5 Advantages of robotics in end-of-line tasks

The adoption of autonomous mobile manipulators offers numerous benefits for industries seeking to optimize their end-of-line operations.

  1. Operational Efficiency:  Mobile Manipulators automate these repetitive tasks, reducing cycle times and allowing workers to focus on higher-value activities.
  2. Flexibility and Scalability: While a fixed robot will always be able to execute a task in the same location, RB-KAIROS+, thanks to its mobility and modularity, can operate in multiple locations, adapting to the different needs of the production line.
  3. Quality Improvements: High-precision sensors and cameras ensure consistent inspections and avoid human errors, increasing quality standards.
  4. Cost Reduction: Although its implementation requires initial investment, end-of-line robotics reduces long-term costs in terms of material waste and errors in production.
  5. Connection with Industry 4.0: These robots are compatible with IoT systems and management platforms, allowing remote control and full integration into smart factory ecosystems.

Industries that use end-of-line robotics

End-of-line robotics are used in various industries such as automotive, aeronautics, electronics or pharmaceuticals. These are some of the tasks that robots like  RB-KAIROS+ can execute in each sector:

  1. Robotics in automotive: On vehicle assembly lines, manipulator robots inspect critical parts, handle heavy components or supply spare parts to workstations.
  2. Robotics in the electronics industry: RB-KAIROS+ can handle small parts with great precision, perform quality tests and assemble sensitive components, typical of the electronics industry.
  3. Robotics in the food industry: Also in the food industry there are recurring end-of-line tasks that robotics can automate: hygienic product packing, container sorting or automated palletizing.
  4. Robotics in the pharmaceutical industry: The pharmaceutical industry uses end-of-line robots to inspect containers, label products or prepare batches for distribution, meeting regulatory standards.
  5. Robotics in the aeronautical industry: The production process in the aeronautical industry is, perhaps, one of the most complex that exists. End-of-line robots are of great help in executing tasks ranging from screwing aircraft wings or parts, supplying delicate components such as electronic circuits or sensors, to tasks related to quality control such as three-dimensional measurements and analysis of tolerances.

Trends in end-of-line robotics

The use of Autonomous Mobile Manipulators is not as widespread as AMRs. However, it offers great possibilities in virtually any industry to automate end-of-line operations. These are 3 foreseeable trends in end-of-line robotics:

  1. Advanced Human-Machine Collaboration: Collaborative Mobile Manipulators can operate in environments shared with humans. Advances in this technology focus on a more real interaction between joint work, combining the capabilities of the robot with human capabilities.
  2. Smarter and more Autonomous Robots: The development of artificial intelligence and machine learning will allow Mobile Manipulators to better adapt to unknown environments and learn new tasks autonomously.
  3. Total Integration in Industry 4.0: The connection of end-of-line robots with IoT networks, ERP systems and big data analysis will allow comprehensive optimization of industrial operations.

How to implement end-of-line robotics?

The tasks carried out upon completion of the manufacturing of a product are often repetitive, demanding and involve significant costs. Therefore, automating the end of the line using mobile robotics makes it possible to minimize the effort associated with these processes.
Implementing end-of-line robotics is a medium and long-term strategic decision. To start this process, we can consider several key steps:

  • Needs Assessment: Identify the specific tasks you want to automate, depending on your industry: packaging, labeling, screwdriving...
  • Technology Selection: The market offers different types of robotic solutions and each system is suitable for different projects. For example, collaborative robots for small spaces or larger volume industrial robots for heavier tasks.
  • Integration: Consider whether you need end-of-line robots to integrate with existing systems, such as inventory management systems.
  • Training: Although RB-KAIROS+ has an intuitive and simple HMI, training is always required at some level for the personnel who will operate and handle the robots on a regular basis.
  • Testing and Optimization: Mobile robotics usually require testing time to optimize correct operation. Each implementation and each industry has specific particularities that must be attended to professionally by the manufacturer.

Robotnik supports you throughout the entire end-of-line automation process. Ask us with no obligation.  

Let Robotnik's mobile robots & manipulators make your work easier.    
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