ABB Robotics has launched an energy efficiency service to provide manufacturers with a package of consultation, analysis, and tools to increase the energy efficiency of their robots.
The service offers up to 30% energy savings, addressing the high energy costs that hinder the competitiveness of 58% of surveyed global manufacturers, according to a recent Energy Efficiency Movement report.
Gauging the energy efficiency of industrial robots has traditionally been a complex endeavour, which involves the measuring of multiple electrical components. ABB said that it has also been difficult to gauge the impact of factors such as inefficient setup, component sizing, overloading and application changes that can cause changes in a robot’s original performance.
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The company’s energy efficiency service will address these challenges by utilising ABB’s robotic experience with a suite of energy measurement tools.
ABB’s suite features three main tools including standby energy optimisation, programme optimisation, and energy monitoring and benchmarking.
The standby energy optimisation tool is an external measurement tool that customers can use to assess the real energy consumption of their robot and controller. Data gathered by the tool is used to generate a report with advice on ways to save energy and recommendations for further steps for fine-tuning performance.
The programme optimisation tool analyses a robot’s operating program to highlight areas where improvements can be made to save energy. Using back-up data from the robot, the tool identifies measures such as adjusting the robot’s programmed speed or motion paths that can improve performance and reduce energy.
And finally, the energy monitoring and benchmarking tool enables continuous monitoring of robot energy consumption and comparison. Data on energy consumption is made available, together with recommendations for improving performance and comparisons with robots in similar applications.
Michael Hose, managing director of ABB Robotics customer service business line, said: “Reducing energy consumption is a priority for manufacturers, with over 93% surveyed stating they will invest in energy efficiency improvements in the next three years to reduce costs and demonstrate progress towards more sustainable operations.
“Our new service will identify ways to achieve these objectives by optimising robot energy efficiency, including fine-tuning performance and using the latest robot technologies.”
Innovations and achievements in AI and robotics in warehousing will be highlighted and celebrated at the second annual Robotics & Automation Awards on 06 November 2024 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London.
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