Collaborative Robots COBOTS in the Pharmaceutical Industry

Collaborative robots (COBOTS) arise from a real and immediate need to seek technology solutions in almost all industries worldwide.

Many clients from the Pharmaceutical Industry such as AMGEN, Medtronic, among others are exploring these technological solutions with the use of these collaborative robots COBOTS that can help in different processes in a manufacturing plant. Unlike traditional industrial robots, COBOTS are designed to work with people (they can even interact with them). In addition, they can multitask, are accessible to different environments, are lightweight, easier to operate, and have machine learning potential.

The integration of COBOTS can be used in processes such as IQA, filling, packaging, warehouses, among other systems.

One of the primary concerns in the implementation of COBOTS is the design stage. During the design stage it is important to evaluate many strategies that help develop a robust system that meets all quality requirements.

Between the stages to be evaluated, it is important to know the final use of the application (final requirements), different technology options, associated costs, minimize risks, and maximize their uses.

A very important factor for both the customer and the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) are the costs associated with the implementation. COBOTS integration is very versatile. These integrations can make manufacturing processes with a lower capital investment than existing processes, shorter implementation time, and greater benefit to the customer in reductions in operational expenses.

Once we have costs and technologies, we must carry out a technical analysis developing a robust strategy. For example: perform a “bracketing approach”, this will help reduce implementation time, improve implementation without increasing costs and deliver a product “right the first time”.

Among the benefits promoted by this type of technology are:

• Reduction in operating expenses,
• Minimizes operator fatigue,
• Reduces risk due to absence (less number of operators per line),
• Promotes “business continuity”
• Increases the capacity of the plant.

Ultimate Solutions in its role as an integrator understands the need of customers in search of new solutions in their processes that help them improve competitively.

Collaborative robots (COBOTS) vs. Conventional industrial robots

COBOTS

1. They can perform multiple tasks.
2. Easy to place in different environments.
3. They are easy to program and install.
4. They interact with humans.
5. Light.
6. Easy to operate.
7. Machine learning skills

Conventional industrial robots

1. They do a single task with total precision.
2. They are placed in a single environment.
3. They need specialists to install and program them.
4. NO interaction with the human.
5. Most of them are heavy and rough due to the tasks they perform.
6. Complexes to operate them.
7. Preprogrammed.
8. They have specific functionalities.
9. The start-up cost is higher because it requires specialists.
10. Ease of assembling other parts.