Process automation through collaborative mobile robotics is already a reality that, far from stagnating, will continue. However, there are still many companies that are reluctant to include these new technologies in their facilities for several reasons. The main argument is that these robots are not safe yet, they are not simple to use to justify their implementation. This means, that they understand that these systems are not able yet to completely replace the capacity of an operator. In fact, it is not a question of replacing the operator, they only are a working tool. This will help to perform heavy and very mechanical tasks. On the other hand, their use in numerous industrial environments, that transport loads within factories and warehouses, prove their effectiveness.
Besides that, the Collaborative Mobile Robotics (CMR) offers unprecedented flexibility: they can work in several areas. In general, it is not necessary to adapt the installations of the customer with fixed physical elements (for example: beacons, magnetic tape or magnets). This is all possible, thanks to these robots make use of autonomous navigation, an evolution compared to the old AVGS (Automatic Guided Vehicle). This is achieved by the build-in safety lasers.
The latter, the AGVS, need markings or physical conductors in the ground that limit their movement through other spaces and these often deteriorate over time. The flexibility of the Collaborative Mobile Robots results in a total investment. This means that a collaborative project for mobile robotics is much more affordable compared to some old automation in an industrial factory.
Robotnik is founded in 2002 and already introduced robots for logistics applications in 2008. This provides the confidence to cover turnkey projects of these characteristics. Keep in mind that the Robotnik solution is a comprehensive solution that includes: robot fleet, location systems, user interface (HMI) and Fleet Management System (SGF). These are all Robotnik’s own developments, that is a technology designed and executed by our Engineering Department.
Collaborative Mobile Robots are present and they will be the future, that is for sure.