What are cobots and industrial robots?
Cobots
Cobots, or collaborative robots, are designed to work right alongside you. They prioritize safety, so you can use them without needing safety cages. Cobots are user-friendly, with simple programming that doesn’t require advanced skills. They’re also highly flexible, making them a good fit for tasks that change frequently or need regular adjustments. If you’re automating packaging, assembly or pick-and-place tasks, cobots can easily integrate into your existing setup and work smoothly with your team.
Industrial robots
Industrial robots give you the speed and precision you need in controlled environments. They’re perfect for tasks that require consistent, high-speed performance, like welding, material handling or running your assembly lines. Because of their power and speed, you’ll need to use safety cages with these robots. They can handle heavy loads and work well in tough conditions, making them ideal if your tasks are repetitive and high-volume. If you need a reliable and precise solution for demanding tasks, an industrial robot is a great choice for your operation.
Key differences between cobots and industrial robots
Cost and ROI
Cobots usually cost between $20,000 and $50,000, which makes them more budget-friendly compared to industrial robots, which can range from $50,000 to $150,000 or more. Cobots have lower running costs since they use less energy and need less maintenance. You could see a return on your investment within 12 to 18 months due to labor savings. Industrial robots, with their higher costs, might take 2 to 4 years to pay off, but they handle more demanding and high-speed tasks.
Flexibility and ease of programming
Cobots are built to be easy for you to program, even if you don’t have advanced technical skills. You can quickly reprogram them to handle different tasks as your needs change. Industrial robots, however, often require more complex programming, which might mean you need specialized help. This can add to your initial setup time and costs.
Safety
Cobots come with built-in safety features, so you can use them without needing safety cages. They have sensors to avoid collisions, making your workspace safer. On the other hand, industrial robots often need safety cages and extra protective measures because of their speed and power, which can increase your overall setup costs.
Performance
Industrial robots are built for speed, precision, and strength. If your tasks involve high-volume production or handling heavy loads, industrial robots will meet your needs better. Cobots, while slower, are more suited to tasks that require flexibility and interaction with your team. They’re a great choice if you need to switch between tasks often.
Applications in small-scale manufacturing
Typical cobot applications
Cobots are great for pick-and-place tasks, packaging, and light assembly work. If you’re handling small parts or packaging products, cobots can fit seamlessly into your process.
Pour lire l'article complet : Cobot versus industrial robot: Small scale manufacturing | Electronics360
