Robots on the assembly line are not new to manufacturing

By working alongside human employees, advanced robotic machines are enhancing efficiency, improving product quality and creating a safer work environment.

A prime example is Ford’s Silverton Manufacturing Plant, where cobots are being used to install weatherproof shields on Ranger doors. This task, previously performed by human workers, requires precision, strength and repetitive motion, often leading to physical strain.

“The cobots know exactly how much force to apply (up to 5kg) and do so more easily and precisely than we can,” said Suresh Babu, plant manager at Silverton Vehicle Operations. “They can follow a complex path avoiding any no-go zones on the door, ensuring the shield is completely sealed against water ingress. And they can do it the same way every single time, which means we can achieve the quality expected.”

The cobots, equipped with sensors and advanced programming, can perform the task with consistent accuracy and speed. This allows human workers to focus on more complex and skilled aspects of the assembly process.

The benefits of cobot integration include:
• Improved efficiency: Cobots can work tirelessly without breaks, increasing productivity.
• Enhanced quality: Consistent performance leads to higher product quality.
• Improved worker safety: Reducing repetitive tasks minimises the risk of work-related injuries.
• Versatility: Cobots can be reprogrammed for different tasks, adapting to changing production needs.

As technology continues to advance, it’s clear that the collaboration between humans and robots will be a defining characteristic of future manufacturing.

It is also truly fascinating to watch these robots in action, so if you ever get the opportunity to visit a plant like Silverton, go for it.

Source: MotorPress