Robotic applications are stepping into the future, with users demanding more responsive, integrated solutions. These can be deployed to support smart, data-driven operations that take productivity and efficiency to the next level. To successfully realize this vision, competitive robotized setups should offer advanced data-sharing functions, such as time-sensitive networking (TSN), which is an update to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers standard intended to address the needs of control systems with Ethernet technology.
The implementation of robotic solutions continues to experience rapid growth, with the number of installations more than doubling since 2015. The American market has adopted nearly 35,000 new industrial robotic units in 2021 alone, according to the International Federation of Robots.
Because robots are commonly installed as independent, stand-alone automated systems, their connectivity has been traditionally limited to controllers and vision systems. In a few instances they have been linked to other components within a designated work cell. However, the modern manufacturing industry has given rise to demands for more ambitious, highly interconnected frameworks in line with Industry 4.0 principles.
To be effective, these advanced automated setups require a high level of integration and data sharing, involving all of the automation components and sensors within a robotic cell. Going further, different machines, units, control systems and users should be able to interact with each other. The ability to share data across cells, shop floors and within the entire enterprise is pivotal in supporting digital manufacturing applications and offering a competitive advantage by enhancing decision making, flexibility, reliability and responsiveness.
To support digital transformation projects, it is crucial to establish connected and seamless communications across all relevant elements that enable manufacturers to extract insights and drive better decision making and facilitate the coordination of activities to enhance operational efficiency. The implementation of a robust network infrastructure that supports TSN standards can unlock these benefits as it ensures reliable, deterministic transmission of various types of data traffic.
A network with TSN functions has the ability to handle time-critical messages related to automated components within the robotic cell, while simultaneously managing less transient TCP/IP packets, including video streams from cameras to support advanced vision systems, among other things. As a result, it is possible to integrate robots with other elements within the same machine as well as support inter-unit communications across the manufacturing line.
In addition to improving rapid decision making to create more flexible, reliable and responsive processes, the use of TSN to create convergent networks can improve diagnostics, troubleshooting and even predictive maintenance. In effect, it is possible to analyze a wider range of data to get a more comprehensive set of insights on what is happening on the shop floor in real-time.
Manufacturing leaders, machine builders and end users interested in developing advanced, data-driven robotized systems should leverage industrial robots equipped with robust TSN compatible controllers. Installing these components allows manufacturers to take advantage of state-of-the-art industrial automation solutions that can drive productivity and competitiveness.
Connect With Us
