News: Enhancing human capabilities with cobots

Cobots, or collaborative robots as they are formally known, are designed to operate in close proximity to humans as they perform their tasks. Specifically designed to integrate into shared working spaces, cobots are the hardware version of augmented intelligence. And unlike fully-fledged robots, they are an affordable solution to automate processes and support employees.

Cobots are responsive to human touch and the environment around them, and therefore do not need to work behind large safety screens because they pose little risk of accidents occurring. Humans are able to provide the power to the cobot, and the cobot provides the precision steering and control.

Cobots are

• relatively small in size;
• can be deployed in different places in a worksite; and
• work well with precision fabrication and welding solutions such as the Demmeler system.

What are cobots used for?

Welding cobots are used where small to medium quantities need to be welded and accuracy and precision are paramount.

While one-off prototypes, small batch sizes, and complex components can be welded faster by a manual welder than by a cobot, there is a point when lot size increases, and using a cobot to assist with automation will save businesses both time and money. Cobots also augment and enhance human capabilities with their super-strength, precision, and data capabilities.

 “Cobots work well with precision welding tables like the Demmeler system.”

Why you should consider a cobot in your workshop

There are many reasons why you should consider a cobot for your organisation, but the primary reasons for making the investment are around productivity, profitability, simplifying work processes, and reducing human error.

In many production environments, cobots can significantly increase productivity levels. They work alongside humans, taking on dull, repetitive tasks, reducing human error, and allowing humans to be more productive with other, more valuable tasks.

By using cobots, manufacturers lower their cost of production while increasing profitability. Humans can utilise cobots as a tool to ensure accuracy and consistency in their work, while minimising downtime in a manufacturing plant.

Rather than taking jobs, cobots remove dull, repetitive, and sometimes dangerous jobs from your employees’ hands. This allows them to focus more time on adding more value in higher priority business areas. Cobots can also eliminate human error, ensuring consistency and accuracy. They allow organisations to create more complex goods while identifying potential errors along the way.

How can Leussink help with your new cobot?

The Demmeler welding and fabrication system, manufactured and/or distributed exclusively in Australia by Leussink, is the ideal partner product for a cobot.

The Demmeler 3D workbench and welding table is a versatile jig and fixturing system for all types of welding and fabrication work. Projects such as steel construction, sheet metal processing, robot technology, assembly and measuring equipment, laser welding, laser cutting, prototype construction, body construction, and many others can be set up easily and precisely for your cobot. Cobots can meet all horizontal and vertical requirements of your jobs.

A cobot can be anchored and fixed to a Demmeler table system to ensure accuracy and versatility. The cobot can return to the same position every single time. Working in partnership with robotic experts, Leussink develops cobot-based systems for clients in a range of industries, enabling them to meet many different requirements.

In fact, cobots, global automation and robotics supplier Scott Automation uses Demmeler modular fixturing tables purchased from Leussink to collaborate a cobot and offer it as a package to their customers. Here’s a video of the cobot, mounted on a Demmeler table, being used in the workshop.

The Demmeler WeldSpace system

Leussink can also supply the Demmeler WeldSpace system, a fully equipped welding cell with a built-in welding robot. The intuitive user interface of the Demmeler WeldSpace programming and operating concept (DWSP) for operating the cobots makes it straightforward for employees without programming knowledge to easily learn to control the robot.

The WeldSpace system is quick to start on the path to automated and professional welding production thanks to fast commissioning and simple programming. Saving time for welding and re-working, the system is ideal for individual parts, series or small batch sizes with a large variety of parts. The Demmeler welding cell and welding robot offers flexibility in small spaces.

Through extensive knowledge and decades of experience, Leussink provides cutting edge cobot-based engineering solutions for the Australian market. We work with our clients to capitalise on efficiencies and productivity, without compromising quality and accuracy.

“Leussink provides cutting edge Cobot-based engineering solutions for the Australian market.”

Backed by premium service from Leussink

At Leussink we sell more than just products. We work with our clients to make sure our systems work for them by providing onsite visits and follow-ups.

Through our knowledge and decades of experience, Leussink can create welding and fixturing solutions for the Australian organisations that stand the test of time. We work with our clients to capitalise on efficiencies and productivity, without compromising quality and accuracy.

For more information on our welding and fabrication solutions, send us an enquiry or call us on 02 4260 7777 today.