We see the introduction of robots frequently now. Various industries are launching different types of robots to automate their tasks. Whether it’s heavy lifting, entertainment, or simple news reading, the rise of robots is seen in multiple segments. In fact, this year, revenue generation through robotics is expected to hit the US$37.37bn mark. Crazy, right? All such facts point in one direction: Automation is the future. Industrial automation and robotics go hand in hand, and launching or expanding your business on the basis of these advancements is going to make your profits boom.
The best part? Finding the right industrial automation service providers is not an exhausting task. Plus, experienced teams are dedicated to assisting you in adopting cutting-edge automation solutions that tackle manufacturing hurdles. They can walk you through every step of your robotics integration project. Whether it’s adding a single robot or several, automating your turning production with bar feeders, or even using vending systems, seeking services for industrial automation and robotics will greatly benefit you. It’ll aid you in making the right call for the facilities you provide. The big questions now are: What are these advancements truly about? How should you select the right provider? In this blog, we’ll address all such queries. So stay tuned till the end to understand the basics of getting started with robotics and industrial automation.
What is Industrial Automation and Robotics?
Industrial automation with robotics involves using robots to handle industrial tasks and machinery. This replaces manual labor, leading to better efficiency, speed, quality, and overall performance.
This combination of robotic labor and automation systems allow businesses to automatically adapt their production and strategies using real-time insights.
For instance, a machine shop can alter its production approach using both historical and live sales data. Programmable robotics and automated systems help manufacturers remain flexible, boost profits, and predict demand. However, such manufacturers majorly rely on custom enterprise software development to ensure their systems work seamlessly.
Difference Between Industrial Automation and Robotics
In today’s technically forward factories, people often use the terms “robotics” and “automation” interchangeably. However, the two are different. Here is how-
Robotics
In the past, robots were pretty one-trick ponies, needing lots of human guidance. They could handle physical tasks but lacked the smartness to adapt quickly.
Modern robotics are different. They’re like programmable chameleons, capable of tackling various tasks and learning new tricks. These robots rely on sensors to figure out what’s happening around them. These sensors vary depending on what the robot is up to.
For example, autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs) are like high-tech explorers, using GPS, LiDAR, and radar to navigate tricky terrains. On the other hand, product picker robots have simpler computer vision to spot barcodes and labels.
These robots can either do everything themselves or lend a hand to human workers. Usually, the boring and risky tasks get automated first. And that’s why industrial automation and robotics are seen as synonyms. However, helper robots simply team up with humans to make work safer and more efficient. So, to make the right choice, it is advisable you seek technology consulting services.
Automation
Now, automation comes to life through AI development services. But it has different flavors, each aiming to make businesses more productive.
First, there’s industrial automation. This one’s like a leader who ensures all the physical machines and processes in a business do their jobs without any sort of interruption. It often relies on IoT sensors to keep an eye on the surroundings and trigger automated actions when certain conditions are met. Thus, when considering industrial automation for your business, try shortlisting reliable IoT development services to stay a step ahead.
Next comes business process automation (BPA). You can imagine this one as some wizard behind the scenes, using data, software, and IT to automate complex business processes. Not that it’s boasting, but it can do it all to simplify your international deals or navigate tricky legal and regulatory requirements.
Last but not least is Intelligent Process Automation (IPA). This one’s like a genius in your system, using machine learning to process data and handle more complicated tasks. It can automate entire workflows and even figure out the root causes of bottlenecks within your process.
In a nutshell, industrial automation and robotics are distinct. Robots are like versatile problem-solvers armored with sensors. On the other hand, automation is all about streamlining hectic processes. It can improve industrial business processes and intelligent process automation, eliminating all issues to boost productivity and efficiency for a business. But a blend of the two, when used strategically, can offer several benefits. That’s what we will discuss in the next section.
At A Glance Difference Between Industrial Automation and Robotics
Advantages of Automating with Industrial Robots
In recent years, industrial automation and robots have witnessed a remarkable surge in adoption within multiple sectors. Companies are investing heavily in these technologies, driven by a strong desire to enhance efficiency, ensure safety, and maintain top-notch product quality. This is hardly surprising because the advantages of this transition are many.
However, some still harbor concerns about the impact of robot automation on jobs. But the reality is quite the opposite. Industrial robotic automation cannot be truly beneficial without human diligence. When this happens, the key benefits that rise and shine are as follows:
1. High Productivity
Industrial robots do not need breaks. They can operate tirelessly, with precision and consistency. So, it becomes obvious that relentless work boosts productivity and a swift return on investment. That’s why any business that relies on automation and precision will come across fewer production errors, cost savings, and reduced waste.
2. Consistent Speed and Quality
Industrial automation through robots excels at maintaining a consistent speed and quality in routine tasks, ensuring predictable production output and consistently crafted products. Better speed and quality would allow your employees to focus on more intricate, rewarding roles while reducing risk.
3. Improved Workplace Safety
Robots thrive in high-risk environments, enhancing workplace safety by taking on dangerous tasks. Thus, if you want to minimize occupational hazards for employees in sectors like mining or high-temperature settings, industrial automation, and robots are your way to go!
4. Optimal Floor Space Usage
Robots require less space than human workers, enabling manufacturers to maximize floor space for additional inventory or production lines. Existing wide aisleways intended for human navigation can be efficiently condensed.
Unlocking the Industrial Potential of Robotics and Automation: Key Use Cases
Every business is now looking for digital transformation services. Industrial automation and robotics fall under this category of the most sought-after services. It comes as no surprise after looking at the benefits it offers. In fact, there are industries that are thriving primarily because they are wisely integrating such advancements. Some of them are given below-
Robotic Process Automation in the Oil and Gas Industry
In the oil and gas sector, companies are deploying different types of robots to tackle various tasks. Some of them include:
Pipeline Inspection
Robots equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and autonomous navigation capabilities can inspect pipelines both above and below ground. They can even detect leaks, corrosion, and structural issues. So, when you deploy an entire system that manages these robots well, you can ensure early maintenance. Plus, your business will also be contributing to preventive measures for environmental disasters.
Well Maintenance
Another use case of industrial automation and robotics in the oil and gas industry is strategic maintenance. Robots can now be designed to perform maintenance tasks on oil and gas wells. All one needs is a software system that controls the robots correctly. With such advancement, robots can clean wellheads, change valves, and even carry out repairs. This reduces the need for human workers to perform these dangerous tasks.
Hazardous Environment Exploration
In extreme environments like deep-sea drilling or areas with high temperatures, robots are sent in to gather data and perform tasks. Thus, if you have an excavation-based business, robots can withstand extreme conditions. Such a move will also ensure the safety of your human staff.
Data Analysis
Automation is not just physical. AI-powered algorithms integrated into software analyze vast amounts of data collected from several devices like sensors and drones. Whether you’re in drilling, production, or logistics, this data can help you make informed decisions.
Robotics and Automation in the Food Industry
The food industry operates with loads. That’s the reason why manual labor makes the process slow and sometimes inefficient. Therefore, the industry relies on automation and robots for a few tasks, as given below:
Food Processing
Robotic arms and machines are employed to handle tasks like cutting, slicing, and packaging. They can work 24/7 with accuracy when controlled through agile software. Moreover, they also help maintain consistent quality and reduce waste.
Quality Control
Vision systems and sensors are also used to inspect food products for defects, contamination, and proper packaging. So when industry automation and robotics work in sync, anomalies trigger immediate corrective actions.
Packaging
You must have seen robots pack food products efficiently and accurately. Now, you can add intelligence to them through custom-made software to handle even the most delicate food items. This can help reduce costs and damage.
Inventory Management
It’s not new to know how automated systems help track inventory levels. Some of them, supported by cutting-edge technologies, can even let you know expiration dates. Overall, if you use robots with automated systems, you can secure proper stock rotation and minimize waste.
Robotics and Automation in the Construction Industry
Construction is all about heavy lifting, precision engineering, and creating structures that stand the test of time. In the modern era, industry automation and robotics have become crucial allies of this intensive sector. Some of the key dependencies these technologies can slash are as follows:
Bricklaying Robots
These are specifically designed robots equipped with a robotic arm. They can precisely lay bricks, blocks, or other construction materials. If you’re into the construction or real estate business, these robots can help you complete work quickly and accurately and also reduce labor costs and construction time.
3D Printing
Have you ever imagined finishing complex projects easily? Large-scale 3D printers can do just that for you! They are used to construct building components or even entire structures. So as part of industry automation and robotics, 3D printing is one efficient way that can reduce construction time and complexity significantly.
Heavy Equipment Operation
Autonomous heavy equipment, such as bulldozers and excavators, can be programmed to perform specific tasks with precision. Indeed, they need sophisticated robotic tools controlled through cutting-edge software. They can help you minimize the risk of accidents and improve efficiency.
Safety Monitoring
Drones equipped with cameras and sensors are now used for site inspections, safety assessments, and project progress tracking. You can integrate the technology by seeking a customized software system that’s smart enough to understand and fulfill your business needs.
Who Are Industrial Automation Service Providers?
It’s time to answer the big question! Now that you know that industry automation and robotics can do wonders for almost every industry, you must be thinking about selecting the right service provider. Don’t worry. We’ve got your back! In the last segments, we will help you select the best in the industry!
Role of Industrial Automation Service Providers
Firstly, let’s understand who are these service providers and what they exactly do. Basically, they act as guides on the automation journey, offering tailored solutions to meet specific business needs. They assess your current processes, recommend suitable automation tools, and oversee implementation. Moreover, some who can deliver custom enterprise solutions can also ensure a seamless transition. Moreover, they provide ongoing support, troubleshooting issues, and keeping systems up-to-date to maximize productivity.
Criteria for Selecting the Right Industrial Automation Service Provider
Choosing the right service provider is crucial. Look for experience, industry knowledge, and a track record of successful automation projects. Most importantly, consider their ability to customize solutions to align with your business goals. Excellent customer support and a commitment to long-term collaboration are also key factors. Remember, with the right service provider, your path to industrial automation success becomes clearer and more achievable. In the last and final section, we unveil the name of the best in the industry.
Why Matellio is Your Ideal Automation Service Provider
When it comes to choosing the perfect partner for your industrial automation journey, Matellio ticks all the boxes. Here’s how we fulfill the criteria and stand out as the best service provider:
Extensive Experience
Matellio has earned remarkable experience in delivering top-notch automation solutions. Our seasoned experts have honed their skills through numerous successful projects.
Industry Insights
We’re not just automation experts; we’re industry experts as well. Our experts understand the requirements of various sectors. This knowledge allows us to develop tailor-made solutions that perfectly align with your unique needs.
Proven Track Record
Our portfolio shines with a multitude of automation projects that have delivered exceptional results. So, when it comes to proving ourselves, our solid track record speaks for itself.
Customization Prowess
Matellio doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We take the time to understand your project goals and customize our offerings to suit your specific needs.
Customer-Centric Approach
We take pride in our customer-centric ethos. Our dedicated support team is always at your service. This support helps you win a smooth and hassle-free automation journey.
Long-Term Partnership
Our professionals always welcome long-term collaboration. It’s because we aspire to grow with you and upscale your business. That’s how our constant efforts have helped several of our clients to thrive even during the most competitive and challenging times.
Thus, when you choose Matellio as your automation service provider, you’re not just selecting a partner; you’re selecting a pathway to automation success. Join hands with us, and let’s embark on a journey towards unmatched growth and efficiency. Put an end to all your worries regarding industrial automation by filling out this form!