Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Certified Systems Integrators Mitigate Commissioning Risks in Robotic Production Cells
Commissioning a robotic production cell involves complex testing across various components, including robot controls and safety functions. Despite successful shop demonstrations, issues can arise during actual plant operations due to discrepancies in parameters, wiring, and network conditions. A qualified systems integrator plays a crucial role in minimizing these risks by treating the entire system as a cohesive unit with clear acceptance criteria. The importance of certified systems integrators lies in their ability to establish a comprehensive commissioning plan that begins during the design phase. This plan includes an approved controls narrative, I/O list, and network map, ensuring that all interfaces are clearly defined. By transforming vague requirements into measurable outcomes, integrators can effectively address potential issues before production begins, thus enhancing operational reliability. Looking ahead, it is essential for teams to conduct thorough factory testing to identify and resolve logic and interface problems. The IEC 62381:2024 standard emphasizes the need for agreed-upon test procedures among owners, buyers, and vendors. As commissioning challenges often stem from the interaction between various components, a holistic approach to testing will be vital for successful robotic cell operations in real-world environments.
Automation Automation News Industry Robotics Robotics and Automation Robotics and Automation News
Advancing Manufacturing Startups with Evidence-Based Commissioning Beyond Checklists
An automated production line may pass factory-acceptance testing and individual equipment checks yet still be unprepared for actual production. This unpreparedness often stems from unproven behaviors within the integrated system rather than incomplete hardware or software. The International Society of Automation’s ISA-105 framework emphasizes the need for a broader assessment of startup readiness, which encompasses the collective functionality of controllers, robots, safety systems, and personnel. The distinction between factory-acceptance testing and startup readiness is crucial for automation teams. Traditional checklists focus on project deliverables, which do not necessarily indicate that production outcomes are achievable. A more effective approach involves defining specific production capabilities that the plant must demonstrate, such as executing production orders and maintaining output under installed conditions. This shift in focus from mere completion of controls to proven operational readiness is essential for successful manufacturing. To ensure readiness, teams should map the runtime chain for each critical capability, identifying all necessary prerequisites and decision points. For instance, a production order may be valid in the manufacturing execution system, but execution could fail due to outdated codes or unavailable systems. This comprehensive mapping is vital for confirming that all components work together effectively before production begins. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Factory / Design
UK’s nuclear waste decommissioning could be handled by teleoperated robots
Innovative robotic technologies are being trialed in the UK to improve the safe management of...
AI and RoboticsRobotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
Join the RobotToday community on LinkedIn
Daily robotics news, in-depth analysis, conference highlights, and discussions with professionals worldwide.
