www. particlesolutionz .co.nz www.foodtechnology.co.nz 11 programming to run specific automated applications. The programming, set-up, repair and constructing dedicated work shields can account for between 70-75 per cent of total infrastructure outlay. The newer versions of lightweight robots sidestep many of these issues through the use of intelligent interfaces that dramatically reduce set-up times. Lightweight robots are extremely user-friendly and do not require skilled programmers to setup. The new class of robots come with a tablet-sized touchscreen user interface, where the user guides the robot arm by indicating movements on the screen, or by simply grabbing the robot arm and showing it the desired waypoints. The approach is both intuitive and precise, as well as making it extremely viable for short manufacturing runs or production alternations. In turn, this allows businesses to be more responsive in meeting ever-changing customer demands. According to an International Federation of Robotics (IFR) study, the number of robots sold globally will have doubled to about 400,000 units by 2018. Many of those sales will come from New Zealand’s regional competitors in China, Japan, South Korea and South America. South Korea is the front-runner of this group, deploying 478 industrial robots for every 10,000 employees in the country. In China, this figure currently stands at 36 units per 10,000 employees. Looking at the real numbers, there are 4.8 robots for every 10,000 employees…hardly an example of automation wiping out mass numbers of jobs. Helping New Zealand manufacturers to stay innovative and ahead of the curve, Universal Robots has been working closely with universities, governments and private enterprise to develop new more productive ways of utilising automation tools such as light-weight robots. The applications are now being applied to the real world, with manufacturers seeing bottom line benefits. One of the key areas of research is in the continued growth of cobotics. Unfortunately, for many smaller manufacturers there are a number of significant hurdles preventing them from looking to move up the value chain - including the availability of labour, cost of additional infrastructure and the ability to cater to changing retailer and customer demands. The new generation of lightweight cobots will play a significant role in helping to overcome the labour shortages while at the same time driving down costs and increasing output. Manufacturers in Europe, South America and now in Asia have been quick to adopt the cobot process. According to the International Institute of Robotics, more than 100,000 lightweight robots have been sold in Asia during the past year. However, it’s markets such as New Zealand where these devices might find their next success. Manufacturers using cobots say the many key benefits gained by using cobots are headed up by the fact that they are able to gain a full return on their capital outlay made purchasing the robots within 200 days. There is no doubt that New Zealand has a huge advantage over most competitor countries in the Asia Pacific region in the growing, production and export of food, but that competitive edge is being eroded as other emerging economies in the region apply higher levels of husbandry and processing which will increase their productivity and output. New Zealand has a window of opportunity to stay ahead of the pack, but that means the application of leading edge technologies and further automation within our food industry. Cobots will be a major part of that story. Shermine Gotfredsen is General Manager, APAC, Universal Robots According to the International Institute of Robotics, more than 100,000 lightweight robots have been sold in Asia during the past year. L I M I T E D NZ's only GAF Filterbag Stockholding Call 0800 423 477 today! Leaders in Liquid Filtration Supplier to NZ industries for 20 years Specialist in Liquid Filtration FT075
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