Industrial Robotics – From Autonomous Robots to UAVs

The word “robot” was first introduced to the English language in the 1920s and was connected to sci-fi connotations. For many, “robot” still brings to mind futuristic applications, but despite the origin robots are very much real. Today, the word is used to refer to machines capable of carrying out complex tasks automatically. Industrial robots play a vital role throughout many different market sectors, where robots are used to perform a large variety of tasks with speed and precision. In this article we take a look at some industrial robotics applications.

Industrial Robotics

Industry and robotics go hand in hand: robots were initially developed with industrial applications in mind. Industrial robotics remains one of the primary facilitators of the advancement of industry – the articulated robot arm is practically synonymous with the modern-day production line.

Industrial robotics has revolutionized many industries by providing systems capable of carrying out a range of tasks with advanced speed and precision. These include welding, 3D product inspection, warehouse handling, and electronics manufacturing among countless other applications.

AGV Robots

Autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs), a mainstay of robotics, can aid in a range of industrial applications, often used for transporting raw materials or order fulfillment processes. Utilizing a variety of navigation systems, from simple magnetic tape to complex LiDAR-based sensing arrays and IoT interconnectivity, AGVs can be programmed to carry out routine, repetitive tasks that are labor intensive and time-consuming.

AGVs are increasingly replacing forklift vehicles for transporting pallets in warehouses, alongside heavy equipment carriers for large assembly transports. This can represent a significant cost-saving over the long-term, and reduce errors while increasing occupational safety.

Key components inside these devices, such as encoders, motors and servo drives, ensure these vehicles are operating accurately and efficiently. Choosing the correct motion control component is highly important in the design of autonomous guided vehicles.

Satcom & UAV

Industrial robotics has also provided us with systems capable of maneuvering in aerial vehicles and space applications. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) use precise sensing and motion control systems to fly through the air, where their uses range from agriculture to surveillance applications. This requires extremely low-weight, energy-efficient components for dynamic motion control with extreme precision.

Satellites similarly make use of industrial robotic systems to achieve precise and rapid positioning movements. With power being a precious commodity in orbit, satellites rely on highly optimized and energy efficient systems to change positioning.

Interested in Industrial Robotics Solutions?

Celera Motion delivers precision components and mechatronic sub-system assemblies for advanced industrial robotics systems. To find out more about our encoders, motors, servo drives and mechatronic sub-systems, contact a member of the team today.