Bristol-based data company Insphere has launched a solution that captures industrial robot alignment data, providing automation monitoring and control.
The IONA network of sensors and software enables engineers to monitor the performance of automated systems in smart factories.
Insphere said this ensures the systems are performing consistently in accordance with the simulated or programmed intent.
Furthermore, data generated with IONA can be used to make corrections either as a one-off system calibration, or as part of regular adjustments compensating for natural process variation.
The company added that correction to robot programmes will allow for faster commissioning and validation of a digital twin.
An Insphere spokesperson said: “Measurement technologies are typically used at the end of the production line where discovered faults or defective parts mean they are either scrapped or require expensive re-work.
“Inshere’s philosophy has always been to counter this traditional approach and use measurement data to enhance the process so that root causes in the production line can be identified early on and manufacturers can overcome costly downtime and the consequences of poor-quality parts when problems are unresolved.”
IONA also provides improved system accuracy enabling more processes to be automate, benefiting overall process quality.
In addition, the solution results in reduced automation downtime through predictive maintenance using trend data.
The closed-loop control systems also provides quicker line set-up, reducing waste, improving productivity and ultimately enhancing profitability for manufacturers.
