Robots in Automotive Manufacturing

The automotive manufacturing industry has long led to the implementation of robots and other automation solutions. Automakers rapidly learned to appreciate the efficiency, flexibility, and dependability of having robots on the assembly line. It’s true that the addition of new technologies has called for a significant investment, but the return on investment makes it worth it.

Have you wondered if adding robots to your facility would have a positive effect? Even if you’re not in the automotive manufacturing industry, there’s a lot you can learn from how car manufacturers use automation to improve metrics and boost their business.

Several areas where automakers are using robots:

Welding: Thanks to the improvement in the capabilities of robots, automotive manufacturing facilities can now more easily manipulate heavy payloads with large robotic arms. And smaller arms have become more precise for the handling of smaller parts. Welding robots are now able to move at high speeds along the same exact path every time.

Vision Systems: The abilities of robots have also been enhanced by the addition of vision systems. Robots can “see” what they are doing and account for any variances in materials and the environment. Vision systems have also offered innovative solutions that make it possible for robots to work around humans involved in assembly, shipping, and maintenance.

Painting and Sealing: In the past, painters could be subjected to harmful fumes from paints, sealants, and coatings. One of the reasons for the labor shortages related to painters is that it can be a dangerous, dirty job. Manufacturers don’t have to worry about exposure when using robotic arms. Robots also use coatings more efficiently and consistently. Robots are also used to remove coatings when needed.

Drone Inspections: Giving robots the capability of flight has led to innovative solutions for inspection purposes. Machine vision lets a drone fly throughout the facility, including high above the assembly line. Drones can find cracks, corrosion, and other problems with piping and other infrastructure. The devices can easily identify necessary work and call maintenance workers to action.

Exoskeletons: The modern exoskeleton has given workers abilities once only written about in comic books. Automotive manufacturing employees can lift objects beyond their normal capabilities in a safe manner. Exoskeletons also allow humans to perform repetitive tasks without the risk of stress and injury. The aging workforce appreciates these new tools.

Find out how Genesis Systems is helping to deploy robots in automotive manufacturing facilities like yours.