|

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid when Implementing Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) in Your Facility

August 22, 2023

As technology advances, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) have emerged as valuable tools for improving efficiency and productivity in various industries.

From warehouses to manufacturing facilities, these intelligent machines are revolutionizing the way manufacturers handle tasks and streamline operations.

However, deploying AMRs successfully requires careful planning and consideration. In this blog post, let’s explore some common mistakes that people make when implementing autonomous mobile robots in their facilities and provide insights on how to avoid them.

1. Insufficient planning

One of the most significant mistakes made during the implementation of AMRs is inadequate planning. Rushing into the deployment without thoroughly assessing your facility’s needs and requirements can lead to inefficiencies and suboptimal results.

Begin by identifying specific areas or tasks that could benefit from automation. Engage with stakeholders, including employees and management, to understand their pain points and expectations. A well-defined plan that aligns with your facility’s goals will help set the stage for a successful AMR implementation.

2. Lack of compatibility

Another common mistake is overlooking compatibility between existing infrastructure and AMR technology. AMRs are very flexible and can operate in a wide variety of applications, but like most things, there are limits; so it is crucial to assess whether your facility is ready to accommodate AMRs seamlessly.

Consider factors such as floor conditions, lighting, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Evaluate the compatibility of your facility’s layout and infrastructure with the navigation and communication systems required by the AMRs. Conducting a thorough evaluation and addressing any potential limitations in advance will prevent unnecessary setbacks during implementation.

3. Inadequate staff training

While AMRs are designed to work autonomously, it is essential to provide proper training to your staff members. Failure to train employees adequately can hinder the successful integration of AMRs into existing workflows.

Employees should understand how to interact with the robots, handle exceptions, and perform basic troubleshooting. Encouraging open communication and providing ongoing training and support will empower your workforce to embrace AMR technology effectively.

4. Overlooking safety considerations

Safety should always be a top priority when deploying AMRs. Ignoring safety considerations is a significant mistake that can lead to accidents and injuries.

AMRs are built with onboard sensing and safety rated control systems designed to prevent collisions, however every application is different; so it is critical that the AMR is configured properly to ensure safe operation for the application it is tasked with.

For example, there is less of a safety risk with an AMR moving foam pads compared to the same AMR moving 500kg of metal parts stacked high on a pallet due of the physics involved.  Both applications are viable and can be done safely, however the AMR must be configured properly to ensure safe operation of each.

Additionally, it’s important to conduct a thorough risk assessment and involve your health and safety team to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate safety measures. Regular safety audits and ongoing monitoring will help maintain a safe working environment for everyone.

5. Neglecting maintenance and support

AMRs, like any other complex technology, require regular maintenance and support to ensure optimal performance. Neglecting this aspect can result in increased downtime and reduced efficiency.

It is crucial to develop a robust maintenance plan that includes routine inspections, software updates, and preventive maintenance. Additionally, it is helpful to establish a strong partnership with the AMR provider or manufacturer to receive timely support and access to spare parts. Proactive maintenance and reliable support will keep your AMRs running smoothly, minimizing disruptions to your operations.

Implementing AMRs in your facility can be a transformative step toward improving efficiency and productivity. By avoiding the common mistakes we’ve reviewed here, you can ensure a successful integration of AMRs into your facility.

Remember, careful consideration of these factors, combined with ongoing monitoring and improvement, will pave the way for a seamless and productive collaboration between humans and robots in your facility.

Source

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • Andreas Sobotta to Assume Role of Vice President North and South America for Pilz Automation

    Andreas Sobotta to Assume Role of Vice President North and South America for Pilz Automation

    Pilz Automation Safety Canada L.P. announces that their long-term CEO and GM, Andreas Sobotta, will assume the role of Vice President North and South America, effective immediately. He will still work from the Canadian office in Mississauga and visit all other subsidiaries in North and South America. Pilz will take their time to find a… Read More…

  • SEW-Eurodrive: MAXOLUTION System Solutions

    SEW-Eurodrive: MAXOLUTION System Solutions

    Whether in production or logistics operations, MAXOLUTION is synonymous with innovation in factory automation – across all industries and worldwide – helping you achieve your vision of an adaptable and resilient lean smart factory. Under the MAXOLUTION brand, SEW-EURODRIVE creates customized solutions for cutting-edge materials handling technology – from the shop floor through to IT.… Read More…


Sponsored Content
The Easy Way to the Industrial IoT

The way to the Industrial IoT does not have to be complicated. Whether access to valuable data is required or new, data-driven services are to be generated, Weidmuller enables its customers to go from data to value the easy way. Weidmuller’s comprehensive and cutting-edge IIoT portfolio applies to greenfield and brownfield applications. Weidmuller offers components and solutions from data acquisition, data pre-processing, data communication and data analysis.

Visit Weidmuller’s Industrial IoT Portfolio.


ADVANCED Motion Controls Takes Servo Drives to New Heights (and Depths) with FlexPro Extended Environment Product Line

Advanced Motion Controls is proud to announce the addition of six new CANopen servo drives with Extended Environment capabilities to their FlexPro line. These new drives join AMC’s existing EtherCAT Extended Environment FlexPro drives, making the FlexPro line the go-to solution for motion control applications in harsh environments.

Many motion control applications take place in conditions that are less than ideal, such as extreme temperatures, high and low pressures, shocks and vibrations, and contamination. Electronics, including servo drives, can malfunction or sustain permanent damage in these conditions.

Read More


Service Wire Co. Announces New Titles for Key Executives

Bruce Kesler and Mark Gatewood have been given new titles and responsibilities for Service Wire Co.

Bruce Kesler has assumed the role of Senior Director – Business Development. Bruce will be responsible for Service Wire’s largest strategic accounts and our growing Strategic Accounts Team.

Mark Gatewood has been promoted to the role of Vice President – Sales & Marketing. In this role, Gatewood will lead the efforts of Service Wire Company’s entire sales and marketing organization in all market verticals.

Read More


Tri-Mach Announces the Purchase of an Additional 45,000 sq ft. Facility

Tri-Mach Elmira Facility

Recently, Tri-Mach Inc. was thrilled to announce the addition of a new 45,000 sq ft. facility. Located at 285 Union St., Elmira, ON, this facility expands Tri-Mach’s capabilities, allowing them to better serve the growing needs of their customers.

Positioning for growth, this additional facility will allow Tri-Mach to continue taking on large-scale projects, enhance product performance testing, and provide equipment storage for their customers. The building will also be the new home to their Skilled Trades Centre of Excellence.

Read More


JMP Parent Company, CONVERGIX Acquires AGR Automation, Expanding Global Reach

Convergix Automation Solutions has completed the acquisition of AGR Automation (“AGR”), a UK-based provider of custom, high-performance automation design and systems integration primarily to the life sciences industry.

Following Convergix’s acquisitions of JMP Solutions in August 2021 and Classic Design in February 2022, AGR marks the third investment in Crestview’s strategy to build Convergix into a diversified automation solutions provider targeting the global $500+ billion market, with a particular focus on the $70 billion global systems integration and connectivity segments. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Read More


Latest Articles

  • Making the Sustainable Transformation of the Process Industry a Success

    Making the Sustainable Transformation of the Process Industry a Success

    By Krystie Johnston and Dr. Manfred Jagiella – Sustainability facilitates opportunity when approached with a mindset to preserve resources and promote circularity. We share one Earth, and it is our global responsibility to care for it for the next generation. Endress+Hauser is one global company that understands this responsibility – and practices it as well.… Read More…

  • Why NOARK’s 12VDC Shunt Trip Coils for MCCBs Make Power Systems Reliable and Safer

    Why NOARK’s 12VDC Shunt Trip Coils for MCCBs Make Power Systems Reliable and Safer

    Circuit breakers are an essential component of any modern electrical system. Designed to protect your home or business from potential overloads or short circuits, these devices are your first line of defense against electrical fires. There are, however, situations where remote tripping of the circuit breaker may be required. It could be for operational reasons,… Read More…