The adaptive robotics team aims to advance robot capabilities as a component of a wider industry 4.0 shift. With this in mind, we are developing a pilot flexible intralogistics line that forms part of a paradigm shift from linear assembly lines to “automated cells“ served by mobile robots. In IMR our pilot demonstration comprises 4 work-stations (either automated or manually operator) that complete an assembly task.
An alternative view is to use modular assembly lines, where cells of automation or human technicians carry out specific operations. Thus, instead of parts flowing from one station to another in a predefined linear fashion, the material is transported between stations by mobile robots whose tasks are defined by a higher level planner which by measuring production flow, sensors and quality can optimize the process.
Short version of above video.
Irish Manufacturing Research and KUKA Collaboration collaborate together to support Irish Industry.