Four Key Points for Choosing the Right Robot Integrator

By Peter Tarbell

Working with an integrator with expertise and experience, while adopting high-performance robots and advanced peripherals, can help manufacturing companies implement robotic automation more efficiently.

One of the most important factors in maintaining and increasing productivity in today’s manufacturing environment is the presence of advanced technologies such as robotic automation. Businesses that are new to robotics are realizing the value that high-performance robots can bring to their operations, creating a “new wave” of robotic integration. With supply chain disruptions, the aging of the baby boomer generation, and an increased demand for more flexible work processes, these manufacturers are under pressure to produce more with less.

Powerful robotic capabilities are helping manufacturing companies effectively address these issues to improve output and product quality and achieve optimal production efficiency. However, between unknown automation systems and the successful implementation of robotic systems, it can be a daunting process. The good news is that there are many experienced robotic integrators distributed around the world who can successfully guide decision makers. Although there are many nuances in the selection of integrators, the following four key features should not be ignored.

01

With professional knowledge and experience

It may seem obvious, but process experience is essential. For example, those looking to automate a welding process need to work with experts who understand thermal processes, not just robots.

Joe Gemma, former global vice president of sales and marketing at Calvary Robocs, said, “Experience is key. Many manufacturers are flying blind and they rely on integrators to lead the way. Robot integrators that understand this and combine key technologies with leading technology are ideal.”

As a leading provider of turnkey automation solutions design and development, Calvary Robotics realizes that true expertise comes from practice. In order to maintain the necessary skills to help customers complete a variety of tasks in industries such as automotive, energy, food and beverage, health and medical, and consumer goods, Calvary's integrator program obtains certification from third-party programs. Companies with employees who have successfully completed such multifaceted training help provide customers with first-class robotic solutions.

Successful robotics integrators can leverage their internal experts to better facilitate the successful implementation of new applications in their areas of expertise. In this context, it is essential to identify the key processes. Once these elements are established, it is possible to select a strategic partner that can best meet the customer's needs.

Finally, integrators that specialize in a niche and focus on contributing innovative products to that industry segment are better able to provide professional advice to manufacturers. An integrator that claims to be "all-powerful" may not be suitable for specific end-user needs. In addition, these solutions enable customers to expand and easily adapt to changing needs to obtain better return on investment.

02

Use the right technology

The ability to obtain high-performance, high-quality robots from a robot supplier with a smooth supply chain and global supply network is a key factor in selecting an integrator. Increased demand and rapid changes continue to drive high-mix, low-volume production, so obtaining a capable and flexible robotic automation system to cope with disruptions is a key factor in operational success.

Scot Lindemann, CEO of Mission Design & Automation, said: "Technology is certain, but helping customers integrate automation is more than that. On a deep level, it's about making customers happy - using innovative tools to help solve problems and make work easier and safer." To keep up with the ever-evolving technological changes, leading integrators emphasize continuous improvement. They work hard to learn advanced technologies and implement them when necessary.

End users also need to look for integrators with compatible technologies. For example, if a company's majority of employees are new to robot programming, a turnkey robotic system that is designed, manufactured, and installed ready for use may be ideal. Similarly, robots with intuitive graphical user interfaces (GUIs) can facilitate rapid deployment and changeovers. An experienced integrator should have access to and knowledge of a wide range of peripherals to enable the most efficient application.

03

Building long-term partnerships

In addition to process expertise and capable technology, another priority to consider when selecting a system integrator is whether the company has the end user’s best interests in mind. References or testimonials on similar successful integration projects should be readily available. Additionally, as a liaison between the robot supplier and the end user, the system integrator should have a team mindset, seeking to bring all relevant personnel together to leverage shared knowledge and assets to help the user achieve the desired outcome.

“Choosing a robotics system integrator that shares the same vision can drive the achievement of the end goal. In addition to this, being able to listen to customer needs and readily adapt to provide a reliable product is also extremely important when working with end users,” said Lindemann.

Therefore, it is recommended to establish a solid working relationship with the integrator for long-term success. Although the general perception is that technology is easy to apply, the process is still very challenging. This is another reason why end users and integrators need to seek out knowledgeable professionals: they can troubleshoot unforeseen situations when they arise.

04

Develop a strategic plan and vision

Integrators should not only have a deep understanding of how customers want to operate, but should also be able to achieve their goals in a variety of ways - because adjusting robot systems and production lines is usually to expand production. Gemma pointed out that if integrators can take a transformative approach to improve customers' operations through vertical integration (all design, manufacturing, tools and services can be addressed), they can meet the different needs of customers well and use tested technologies and rich experience to help customers.

Integrators should also be strategic about how they interact with robot suppliers. Integrators who maintain open lines of communication with robot suppliers are better able to meet customer requirements, as few applications integrate smoothly on the first try. This is especially helpful when after-sales service, technical support, and spare parts are required. If an integrator does not have a good working relationship with a robot supplier, this may be cause for concern, as the ability to provide comprehensive robot support at every stage of the project lifecycle is critical to the success and long-term performance of the application.

For manufacturing companies that are new to robotic automation, Gemma recommends starting small and gradually advancing automation. Small and medium-sized companies should find systems within the factory that are easier to automate. Then, learn the technology and understand how to build on it.

Robotic integration is a journey that manufacturers should embrace - it is not a project that is completed and then everything is fine. If integrated well, robotics should optimize operations and enable business growth. Find a robotics integrator who understands this and maintains a partnership with them to achieve a strategic vision using high-performance robots and leading peripherals, which will guide the end user on a fruitful path to robotic automation.

Reviewing Editor: Huang Fei