News: What is Industry 4.0?
If you work in the manufacturing sector you will be familiar with the concept of Industry 4.0. In short, it refers to the fourth phase of the industrial revolution.
The first Industrial Revolution was the steam age, then came mass production and electricity for the second, and the third was the introduction of computers.
The fourth, commonly known as Industry 4.0, focuses heavily on interconnectivity, automation, machine learning, and real-time data. Also known as Industrie 4.0 in Europe, it originated in 2011 at Hannover Messe (trade fair), where German manufacturer Bosch described the widespread integration of information and communication technology in industrial production by adopting the term.
Industry 4.0 encompasses IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) and smart manufacturing. It links physical production and operations with smart digital technology, machine learning, and big data. This creates a more holistic and better-connected system for manufacturing and supply chain management companies.
At the recent Australian Manufacturing Week (AMW) held in Sydney, Industry 4.0 was used by many exhibitors to describe their products and services on show. Interestingly, some at AMW were also talking about ‘Industry 5.0’.
The proponents of Industry 5.0 see it as the next level of industrialisation characterised by the return of manpower. However, most including the European Union don’t see it as the next industrial revolution, but as a complementary facet.
What is a cobot?
Cobots, or collaborative robots as they are formally known, are designed to operate close to humans as they perform their tasks. 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 negligible risk of accidents occurring. Humans can provide the power and direction to the cobot, and the cobot provides the precision steering and control.
Leussink’s partnership with OLP Robotics
On show at Australian Manufacturing Week was OLP Robotics’ welding arm mounted on a Demmeler 3D table system.
The Demmeler 3D workbench and welding table is a versatile jig and fixturing system for all types of welding and fabrication work. 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 OLP Robotics and other robotic experts, Leussink develops cobot-based systems for clients in a range of industries, enabling them to meet many different requirements.
On show at the University of Wollongong
The University of Wollongong (UOW) has an industry hub at its Shoalhaven campus in Nowra which features Industry 4.0 technology. The new Industry 4.0 hub includes a working demonstration unit of the Demmeler 3D table system with a cobot (collaborative robot).
In the UOW Industry 4.0 Hub, the cobot is set up on a Demmeler table system to undertake welding tasks. The Demmeler system plays a dual role. It holds the cobot firmly and accurately in place, and it also holds the workpiece securely and precisely while the welding is taking place.
“One of the key advantages which we can demonstrate is how quickly it can be set up and programmed for just a few welds, before moving on to the next. Operators do not have to be experts in computer programming or welding to be able to operate the Demmeler cobot system,” said UOW Research Engineer Evan Brown.
Backed by premium service from Leussink
At Leussink, the relationship doesn’t end when we sell you a welding system. For us, it’s just the beginning. We work closely with all our clients to ensure that your system is working efficiently for your business. And we’ll support you through the life of your table, from ongoing training or guidance, through to providing a world class range of accessories.
Through our knowledge and decades of experience, Leussink can create welding and fixturing solutions for Australian organisations that stand the test of time. We help our clients to capitalise on improving their efficiencies and productivity, without compromising on quality and accuracy.
For more information on our welding and fabrication solutions, send us an enquiry or call us on 02 4260 7777 today.