Robots are starting to play a larger role in the workforce, but they’re not necessarily going to replace people in certain jobs. Robots will often work alongside humans instead, automating previously tedious tasks and increasing productivity.
Telesis Technologies, Inc. is at the forefront of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) for laser marking automation. Learn more about how our lasers integrate with collaborative robots, also known as cobots.
What Is a Cobot?
A cobot is a robot that works alongside humans in a factory or other workspace. It’s different from an autonomous robot, which works independently and performs the same task repeatedly.
Cobots are on the small side and are aware of what’s around them. They can perform several tasks while near humans. You can program a cobot so that it keeps human employees safe, and you can train it to learn new tasks.
Why Work With a Laser Marking Cobot?
There are several benefits to laser marking and collaborative robot integration:
- Increased productivity: Cobots don’t get tired, meaning they can work around the clock and after human employees have returned home. You’ll likely see a boost in productivity when you integrate a cobot with your laser marking equipment.
- Safety: Cobots feature sensors and systems that alert them to the presence of others in a factory or on an assembly line. The sensors are designed to keep human workers safe. If a cobot senses that a person is too close, it won’t continue to move toward them.
- Precision: Collaborative robots move quickly but precisely, ensuring the engravings or marks are placed in the right location.
- Adaptable controls: You can adjust a cobot as needed, making programming changes on the fly.
- Flexibility: Since you can change a cobot’s programming when necessary, you can use it for multiple tasks.
- Reduced costs: Cobots often cost less than hiring someone to work a shift, especially since the cost is upfront and not ongoing. The lower your production costs, the greater your company’s potential profit.
- Minimize contamination: Cobots are ideal for certain environments where cleanliness is critical. For example, you may consider using a cobot in a medical clean room, as the machine can be fully sterilized before entering the space or touching any objects.
- Improved worker comfort: Cobots can perform high-volume marking tasks consistently and repeatedly, increasing ergonomics and taking the burden off your human employees.
Integrating a Cobot With Laser Marking Systems
Traditional industrial robots typically require programming by professional engineers. Cobots can be programmed directly by their users. Most have drag-and-drop interfaces that make it easy to tell the robot what to do and when and how to perform a task.
Programming the robot yourself simplifies the process of integrating it into your workflow. It also lets your team become more familiar with the cobot and comfortable working alongside it.
Laser Marking Cobot Integration With Telesis Technologies, Inc.
Automation is the future, and our durable products are an ideal match for collaborative robots. Contact us to learn more about integrating cobots with our laser marking systems.
