5 Industries that Can Benefit From Robotic Arms

Automation is rapidly becoming a major part of industrial processes. Industries are focussing on improving the efficiency and job quality of their workers. Depending on industries, some have already been automated and others are yet to witness the full potential of robots and modern technology.

Robotic arms were one of the first robots to be used in automation. These arms are still a major part of many industries as it replicates a human arm and is capable of performing various industrial tasks with ease. This article discusses such robotic arm applications in different industries.

Source: Freepik

Industrial Robotic Arms

A typical industrial robot arm comprises a series of joints, articulations, and manipulators that work together to resemble the movements and functionality of a human arm, at least mechanically. A programmable robot arm is in itself a complete machine; it can function as a single robot or as part of a larger, more complex device.

The use of industrial robot arms can increase production rates and position accuracy, perform tasks and perform heavy lifting and positioning functions that would be impossible for groups of multiple human workers at any rate.

Typical applications for robots include welding, painting, assembly and disassembly, pick and assembly of printed circuit boards, packaging, labeling, palleting, product inspection, and testing, all of which can be carried out with high precision, endurance, and speed.

In automotive factories, lightweight robotic arms can assemble small parts such as motors and pumps at high speeds. Larger industrial robots with longer arms have higher payload capacities and can weld heavy body parts on site.

Source: Freepik

Industries Benefited from Robotic Arms

Robot arms are used for tasks that require precise, fast, and repeatable movements in all kinds of industrial production, processing, and manufacturing roles.

Industrial Robotic arms can be used in places and areas where it is necessary to reduce the risk to humans, have more power and accuracy than humans, and in roles that are considered boring for human workers where continuous operation is required.

Considering the scope of their usage, the following industries can benefit from robotic arms:

Electronics Hardware Manufacturing Industry

Over the years, demand for electronic gadgets has increased. This industry has become a more profitable and favorite spot for investors. With high demand and capital, this industry can make use of robotic solutions for manufacturing hardware boards and chips.

These components function on nanotechnology and their manufacturing requires precise soldering of very minute components on small circuit boards. The human hand can not solder components with such precision at a fast rate.

These operations are carried out by programmable robotic arms with stored circuit schematics in their memory. These arms are capable of replicating the circuit onboard with accurate and precise soldering quickly.

Automotive Industry

This industry uses a large number of industrial robots used on the assembly line, with human workers contributing to the final manufacturing of the car.

In fact, most manufacturing operations are carried out by industrial robotic arms for assembly tasks, which are traditionally done by hand. In the automotive production system, robots improve quality, reduce warranty costs, increase productivity, reduce bottlenecks and protect workers from difficult and dangerous jobs.

Robotic arms are also used for painting manufactured car bodies. These arms can quickly and precisely apply paint coating without leaving any edges or paint drips. This level of accuracy and speed can not be achieved by using physical labor.

Space Industry

There have been numerous examples of the use of robotic arms while exploring and collecting samples from other planets.

Moreover, a series of these robotic arms are also being used to resupply space shuttles and deploy/capture payloads. Space robotic arms require multiple degrees of freedom. With the help of attached cameras and other equipment, they are also used in special operations like planet surface and spacecraft inspection.

Robotic arms have a promising and profitable future in this industry as there are many ways of integrating other technologies within them and using them for more complex tasks.

Healthcare Industry

A report by Credence Research claims that the medical robotics industry is expected to grow from $7.24 billion to $20 billion by 2023. There is a lot of scope for robotic arms in this industry. Various surgical procedures require quick response and high precision. These operations are performed by experts.

The shortage of such surgeons in the world and the fact that they are not available everywhere raises a need for robotic arms in this industry.

These arms are usually pre-programmed and specialize in surgical and assistive roles. They function along with other doctors in performing the operation.

With current technology, robotic arms are capable of doing such tasks with precision and accuracy. But currently, there is less awareness and focus on using them in this industry. Hence, the medical industry can benefit a lot from robotic arms in future

Mining Industry

This industry is slowly moving towards using robots for various tasks. Robotic arms are mounted on autonomous robots and these robots assist in complex tasks like mine inspection, excavation.

Robotic arms can be mounted with special cameras to explore abandoned mines for the presence of minerals or resources. Use of robotic arms can keep humans away from dangerous sites and eliminate risks.

Large and strong robotic arms are commonly used on mining sites for removing big obstacles and boulders.

Conclusion

The modern era is very competitive. While some industries like manufacturing and painting have already established themselves with advanced automation solutions, others lack the implementation of such solutions.

All the industries listed above are progressing towards applying modern concepts for better productivity and efficiency.

After understanding the current usage and future scope of robotic arms in these industries, we can analyze how much they can benefit from them.