Preparing the published article.
Robot Selection for High-Mix Low-Volume Cells
Flexibility comes from the tooling and the software more than from the robot.
Where the cost sits
| Area | Typical challenge |
|---|---|
| Tool changing | Frequent changeover and re-calibration |
| Programming | New variant programs and parameter sets |
| Fixtures | Adjustable or reconfigurable location features |
| Sensing | Coping with part variation and orientation |
Selection guidance
- Choose a payload margin for the heaviest tool and part combination.
- Prefer quick-change tooling with repeatable location features.
- Budget for the programming effort as a recurring cost.
- Measure changeover time as a design target.
High-mix work is usually decided by changeover time rather than by cycle time.