Realtime Robotics, a leading provider of collision-free autonomous motion planning for industrial robots, recently introduced its cutting-edge Optimization-as-a-Service solution. By leveraging proprietary optimization software and expert insights from robotics and application engineering, this service aims to enhance manufacturers’ productivity and overall operational efficiency.
Initially, Realtime Robotics collaborated with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles in Hanover, Germany, for a proof-of-concept project focused on electric vehicle manufacturing. In their pursuit of quicker and more efficient cycle times in a 2-robot cell welding car doors for the ID. Buzz vehicle line, the company turned to Realtime Robotics’ Optimization-as-a-Service.
Rather than disrupting ongoing production processes, the Optimization-as-a-Service solution thoroughly analyzed the customer’s existing digital twin to identify bottleneck areas and generate recommendations based on specific requirements. Realtime Robotics seamlessly integrated with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles by analyzing simulation files, enabling the automotive manufacturer to incorporate improvements without interrupting production cycles and ultimately reducing cycle time by several seconds.
Realtime Robotics’ Optimization-as-a-Service is capable of rapidly generating and testing a vast number of potential robot paths, determining optimal motion sequences based on target assignment, robot reach, and other parameters. By calculating interlocks automatically, robots can safely operate in closer proximity to one another.
Customers utilizing this service only need to provide Realtime Robotics with the simulation CAD file for bottlenecked cells. Realtime’s team of expert engineers then employs proprietary algorithms and their extensive expertise to optimize the workcell within a matter of weeks. This process results in significant reductions in cycle times through the implementation of improved paths and sequences. Once the results are validated, they can be seamlessly transferred to the production floor.
This groundbreaking approach to automation optimization has the potential to revolutionize manufacturing operations by improving speed and efficiency without interrupting existing processes, as highlighted by Peter Howard, the CEO of Realtime Robotics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Optimization-as-a-Service?
Optimization-as-a-Service is a solution offered by Realtime Robotics that combines proprietary optimization software with robotics and application engineering expertise to enhance the productivity and efficiency of manufacturing processes.
2. How does Realtime Robotics’ Optimization-as-a-Service work?
Realtime Robotics’ Optimization-as-a-Service analyzes a customer’s existing digital twin to identify bottleneck areas and provide recommendations for improvement. The solution generates and tests numerous potential robot paths, determining the best motion sequences based on specific parameters. This service also calculates interlocks automatically, allowing robots to operate in closer proximity.
3. How long does it take to optimize a workcell using Optimization-as-a-Service?
Optimization-as-a-Service typically optimizes a workcell within a matter of weeks. Realtime Robotics’ team of engineers utilizes proprietary algorithms and their expertise to streamline the process and reduce cycle times.
4. Can Optimization-as-a-Service be applied to existing production processes?
Yes, Optimization-as-a-Service can be seamlessly integrated with existing production processes. It does not disrupt ongoing operations, allowing manufacturers to incorporate improvements without interruptions.
5. What are the benefits of using Optimization-as-a-Service?
Optimization-as-a-Service helps manufacturers improve the speed, efficiency, and productivity of their automation operations. It enables better path planning for robots, reduces cycle times, and enhances overall operational performance.