The interaction between robots and humans in manufacturing is becoming increasingly diverse. However, traditional industrial robots often come with high costs and require significant technical expertise to operate. They are typically limited to specific, repetitive tasks, making them less accessible for smaller businesses or flexible production environments.
In contrast, collaborative robots—also known as cobots—are designed to be user-friendly and adaptable. These lightweight robots can be easily set up, moved between locations, and operated without the need for advanced programming skills. They are ideal for a wide range of applications, including packaging, sorting, loading and unloading, assembly, and quality inspection. The Danish company Universal Robots launched the world’s first collaborative robot in 2008, marking a major shift in automation technology. By integrating SICK's vision technology, these cobots have become even more capable, opening the door to new and complex tasks.
Collaborative robots make automation more accessible by reducing the initial investment and complexity involved. This has enabled companies like Hestra Teknik from Sweden to adopt automation quickly and efficiently. Despite having no prior experience in robotic systems, Hestra was able to establish a fully functional robotic workstation within just four months using Universal Robots’ cobots.
Hestra uses collaborative robots for loading CNC machines, allowing operators to focus on other critical tasks. To ensure precise positioning, they employ SICK’s 2D camera, the Inspector PIM60. This intelligent vision sensor enables the robot to locate and pick up objects from a conveyor belt, then move them to the machine. It can store parameters for up to 32 different parts directly within the sensor, enhancing flexibility and efficiency.
By integrating SICK’s software, Inspector URCap (a plug-in for UR robots), Hestra was able to leverage the full capabilities of the Inspector PIM60. This software allows the robot to use the vision sensor’s features seamlessly, without requiring an external computer. The 2D vision system not only guides the robot but also performs inspections and measurements, determining pass/fail results or tracking trends over time.
This integration simplifies the process, reduces manual labor, and expands the potential of collaborative robots in various industries. With tools like the Inspector PIM60 and URCap, companies can now achieve higher precision, adaptability, and productivity—all while keeping automation affordable and easy to implement.
Heavy-duty connectors are designed to withstand the harshest and most demanding industrial environments, and are tougher, stronger, and more resistant than conventional connectors. Compared with traditional connection method, using heavy-duty connector can save 20-30% installation cost for machining center; Increased production efficiency, and reduce wiring error rate.
Hd Series Connector,25 Pin Heavy Duty Connector,High Pin Count Connector,64 Pin Heavy Duty Connector
Kunshan SVL Electric Co.,Ltd , https://www.svlelectric.com