WHAT STEPS SHOULD BE TAKEN TO IMPLEMENT AUTOMATION?
elliTek's Systems Group has more than 25 years of experience in industrial automation. They have seen the good, the bad, and the great. In the section below, they're sharing what they've learned, so your automation project will be one of the great ones!
Brandon has been in the industrial automation space for more years than he'd want to admit. In elliTek's podcast "Industrial Automation - It Doesn't Have To... Be Vague," Brandon shares some commonly overlooked aspects that can be forgotten, overlooked, or even disregarded.
Here are some tips from our engineers for implementing an automated robotic system in your plant.
DETERMINE YOUR NEEDS
By defining your expectations from the start, both you and elliTek's Systems Group will be on the same page when we're developing an automated robotic integration design. elliTek will help you find the right robot for your application.
PROVIDE CURRENT DRAWINGS, PHOTOGRAPHS, AND VIDEOS
Our team can better understand your robotic and automation expectations by furnishing these visual aids. They allow us to better understand your process and anticipate any limitations that we might face. Detailed drawings, schematics, pictures, and samples of your part let our EOAT experts determine an action plan.
USE EFFICIENT TECHNOLOGY
elliTek's Sytems Group includes our sales, engineers, and technicians who are well-versed in developing real-world, field-proven automation plans. They are knowledgeable in automated robot models, controllers, software, and data management. Our team is determined that each of our customers will have the best return on their investment.
CONFIRM YOUR PROCESS IS THE MOST EFFICIENT TO AUTOMATE
Some applications aren't the most effective to fully automate. elliTek's engineers can identify the type of automation that is best suited for your process and the percentage range of automation that is the most cost-effective for your facility. Our Systems Group provides options, allowing you to choose the solution that fits your budget and meets your expectations for performance.
VISIT ELLITEK'S FACILITY
When you visit elliTek's offices, machine shop, and training center, it gives you insight into how our team approaches projects. You'll get a more accurate view of your application requirements.
ASK FOR A PROJECT COST ESTIMATE
To get your project off the ground, elliTek's Sales Engineers are prepared to provide budgetary estimates. Our team can perform a feasibility study to determine the value before you make an investment.
ESTABLISH THE SKILL SET NEEDED TO SUPPORT YOUR ROBOT
Before implementing your automated robotic system, our Systems Group suggests that you take into consideration the technical expertise of your associates. At elliTek, we encourage your company to participate in training at our facility before shipment. A few members of your team will work with our Automation Experts so they can learn how to operate and program your robot. We encourage each associate to operate the teach pendant and to run the robot. Your associates should understand every aspect of the robotic system you're purchasing. This increases productivity and reduces the learning curve.
INCLUDE EACH DEPARTMENT IN THE PROCESS
Every department that will be affected by your new robotic system needs to be involved early in the process. Giving them a chance to participate early on helps generate different perspectives and bring up important questions. This also helps define the cost of your automation project.
COMMUNICATE
It is vital to remain in communication throughout the integration process. elliTek is committed to following-up with our customers. We also encourage you to reach out with any questions during the process.
RECEIVE TRAINING AND COMPLETE A BUY-OFF BEFORE YOUR SHIPMENT
Our goal is for every project to exceed expectations. Participating in training before shipment of your robotic system is one way to ensure your company is getting a top-notch product. Another way is to complete a buy-off in which you visually inspect the robotic system before it ships to ensure it meets your expectations.
Rest assured that elliTek's Systems Group will consult with you throughout your automation project.
Are you starting an automation project and looking for guidance? Check out the advice that elliTek's engineers have drafted for when you are ready to buy a robot.