3/5/2021
BY: MICHAEL MCGRAY
Typically, the first type of technology that comes to mind when referencing Industry 4.0 or advanced manufacturing is Robotics & Automation. And while a growing number of facilities continue to adopt automation into operations, many hesitant manufacturers still wonder, How can automation help my production?
IMPROVE EFFICIENCY, PROFITABILITY AND TALENT UTILIZATION WITH THE HELP OF AUTOMATION
Robotics and automation have gained their popularity among manufacturers of all sizes due to the many applications and benefits they provide. One type of automation that has recently gained much attention among manufacturers are Autonomous Mobile Robots.
There are plenty of opportunities for utilizing Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) within a manufacturing environment. These portable, self-guided robots can be used in any type of production to support operations and provide a variety of benefits, including:
- Minimize or eliminate wasted movement and non-value added activities. AMRs can efficiently move raw materials, work-in-process or finished goods throughout the plant by precisely following a pre-programmed path or by dynamically generating routes to navigate diverse environments. This helps to minimize wasted movement and create a more Lean operation overall, contributing to increased productivity and profitability.
- Maximize efficiency and use of talent. With this wasted movement minimized, production becomes more efficient, thus enabling workers to conduct more value-added tasks. This is especially critical now, as manufacturers struggle to find enough talent to fill roles in their facilities. In this way, AMRs make it possible for manufacturers to get the most value out of their available talent and resources.
- Enhance safety, tracking and reliability. AMRs do not require an operator or driver; each vehicle is guided by software and sensors to follow a controlled path. Safety is guaranteed as vehicles are programmed to stop immediately if they encounter an obstruction. Additionally, because of the consistent and predictable nature of their travel, AMRs provide improved reliability and tracking of material transportation.
Still unsure if Autonomous Mobile Robots are right for your organization? Join us March 26 at our Plymouth facility for an informative event exploring the many applications of AMRs. Educational presentations and demonstrations from Mobile Industrial Robot (MiR) supplier and Michigan’s factory automation leader, Industrial Control, will provide attendees with an opportunity to learn about the benefits provided by this type of automation and see it in action. Additionally, UV Sheltron will share how their ultraviolet (UV) disinfection technology can be paired with AMRs to enhance the safety of your facility. Both a morning session, from 9-11:30am, and afternoon session, from 1-3:30pm, are available and registration for the event is free. Learn more and reserve your spot here.
GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR INVESTMENTS WITH HELP FROM THE CENTER
Whether your company is well into its Industry 4.0 journey or just getting started, The Center’s experts can help ensure you achieve the maximum return on all investments. To assist Michigan’s manufacturers with understanding and adopting Industry 4.0 technologies, The Center has partnered with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and Automation Alley to drive awareness of the many uses and benefits of these innovations. From conducting an initial Technology Opportunity Assessment to identifying and applying relevant technologies, The Center guides manufacturers through technological implementations in a way that makes sense for their businesses.
Learn more about how The Center can support your company’s Industry 4.0 journey by contacting inquiry@the-center.org or visit the-center.org.
The Center is committed to creating and maintaining the safest facility possible for all guests and staff. Learn more about our health and safety practices here.
MEET OUR EXPERT
Michael McGray, Information Systems Manager
Michael McGray has served as the Information Systems Manager at The Center since 2011. For more than 20 years, Michael has focused on finding the best applications of Information Technology to help solve critical business problems. Throughout his career, Michael’s hard work and passion for what he does have allowed him many opportunities to align his core expertise with various business sectors, including finance, marketing, sales and business administration. Now, Michael is ready to work with small and medium-sized manufacturers as they take the next technological leap into Industry 4.0.
Since 1991, the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center has assisted Michigan’s small and medium-sized businesses to successfully compete and grow. Through personalized services designed to meet the needs of clients, we develop more effective business leaders, drive product and process innovation, promote company-wide operational excellence and foster creative strategies for business growth and greater profitability. Find us at www.the-center.org.
Categories: Advanced Manufacturing,
Industry 4.0,
Technology