OMRON halves cost to cobot palletise helping solve workforce challenges

Thanks to OMRON’s renowned iAutomation proprietary technology, the cobot system boasts a 50% cost saving, rapid delivery within weeks and plug-and-play system architecture to help businesses of all budgets and sizes immediately de-risk their line against today’s unprecedented labour challenges.

The introduction of the RB1200 could not be timelier. Companies are navigating social distancing guidelines amid high vacancy rates compounded by Brexit and the long-term skills shortage, putting pressure on existing staff and affecting productivity – October 2020-April 2021 saw the lowest level of employment in the manufacturing sector since 19961. Adding to manufacturers’ anxiety is the risk of production being halted entirely due to an on-site Covid outbreak or high numbers of staff self-isolating; events which are outside of their control.

The RB1200 was developed in partnership with OMRON’s automation partner Reeco. Together, the two companies have designed a cobot palletiser that makes manufacturers resilient to the detrimental effects of both labour shortages and the possibility of immediate workforce interruptions. Using OMRON’s 3i concept of intelligent, integrated and interactive engineering methods has dramatically shortened system design and delivery time resulting, says OMRON, in a 50% cost reduction compared to same spec cobot palletisers.

A modular, plug-and-play solution, the RB1200 has a maximum payload of 10kg and a cycle time of 12 picks per minute. It requires no system integration and boasts a 60% smaller footprint than conventional robot palletisers. Its inherent flexibility also means it can easily switch between lines and handle rapid changes in demand, maximising users’ investment.

In addition to its automated palletising solution, OMRON will showcase the Quattro. With a pick rate of 300 per minute and the only Delta robot to be USDA-certified, the Quattro’s fourth arm allows it to reach up to 30% further than traditional designs, facilitating a larger operational area. The powerful combination of speed, manipulation, reach and a 15kg payload make it ideal for any general packaging application. Stand B34

For more information, visit: www.industrial.omron.co.uk/en/home