This is the question most of the small business owners ask themself.
The quick answer is: it depends on what process you want to automate.
The even quicker answer is: no.
As technology advances, the realm of automation is no longer limited to large-scale industries with substantial resources. The rise of collaborative robots, or cobots, has revolutionised the landscape, making automation accessible for your small business.
Industrial robots vs cobots
Traditional industrial robots are known for their size, complexity, and the need for specialised programming skills. They are often made of heavy-duty materials and require extensive safety measures, including large floor spaces with safety fencing.
In comparison, Cobots (colaborative robots) are lightweight, flexible and designed to work alongside the humans. We work with several cobot suppliers, including universal robots
One key distinction lies in the ease of setup and programming. Our engineer will do an initial audit and then advise on the best cobot for your production. Industrial robots typically demand expertise in one of the numerous programming languages they support. In contrast, cobots are designed for quick deployment straight out of the box. With a user-friendly interface, aimed at non-programmers, cobots are accessible to individuals with no prior experience in robotics.
The lightweight nature of cobots facilitates flexible deployment. Unlike their industrial counterparts, cobots can be easily moved from machine to machine, adapting to various processes within a factory. This mobility is especially advantageous in limited spaces where traditional robots may struggle to operate.
what about safety?
Safety is a paramount concern, particularly when robots work alongside humans. Cobots address this by incorporating safety features such as force and torque sensors in their joints. In the event of a collision, the robot enters a controlled safeguard stop, ensuring the well-being of human collaborators.
When deciding: is my business too small for a cobot, key advantage of cobots is their quick payback period. Thanks to simplified programming and rapid setup, businesses can start reaping the benefits of automation sooner. The software provides an intuitive 3D interface for programming, allowing users to control the robot’s movements and tasks effortlessly.
Range of applications
The range of applications for cobots is diverse, from loading and unloading machines to assembly, welding, and inspection. Small businesses can identify processes that are repetitive, time-consuming, or pose safety risks for human workers and implement cobots to enhance efficiency and productivity.
A real-world example demonstrates the financial benefits of incorporating cobots into small businesses. By automating tasks previously carried out by human operators, businesses can realise significant savings in labour costs. The return on investment goes beyond the immediate year, contributing to long-term profitability.
If your question: is my business too small for a cobot still not answered, here’s another advantage. Cobots also bring advantages in terms of energy efficiency and reduced waste. With their ability to work continuously and with high repeatability, cobots contribute to improved product quality and reduced scrap. Additionally, their lower energy consumption compared to human operators aligns with sustainability goals.
Cobots are perfect for small businesses
In conclusion, the era of cobots has ushered in a new era of automation accessibility for businesses of all sizes. Small businesses, in particular, can benefit from the flexibility, ease of use, and quick payback associated with cobots. Call or email us today with your question about cobot. As technology continues to evolve, embracing automation through cobots may well be the key to unlocking efficiency and competitiveness for small enterprises.