Abstract
Goal: The main objective of this study is to analyze the impact of inserting a collaborative robot in a production line of a factory of the automotive sector.
 Design / Methodology / Approach: Two simulation environments were developed. The first one models the original operation without the collaborative robot. The second one evaluates the impact of inserting the robot. This work is quantitative.
 Results: The paper presents the use of digital manufacturing tools in a simulation of a collaborative operation between a human and a collaborative robot. The simulations with and without the collaborative robot were performed, and they make it possible to emphasize the benefits of the collaborative operation in a real production line.
 Limitations of the investigation: The first simulation scenario was validated from the real data provided by the factory. However, the second scenario is a suggestion, emphasizing the benefits of collaborative operation. Implementation of the second scenario was not conducted.
 Practical implications: Since its completion depended on support from the automotive sector, this work is noticeably practical. The real data used in the first scenario as well as the assumptions made in the second scenario allow one to conclude that it is possible to implement the propositions with the collaborative robot in the chosen line.
 Originality / Value: The use of the collaborative robot in Brazil was forbidden by regulation until recently. Even in other countries decision makers still find have difficulty deciding for this new technology. For this reason, the benefits of using collaborative robots, mainly in Brazilian companies, is still not clear. This work contributes to the collaborative robot discussion and consequently to Industry 4.0 implementation by creating a digital twin of an existing process and inserting a collaborative robot in it. The results should be used by decision makers to decide for inserting this technology in their factories.
Highlights
The industry considered the creation of the steam engine a milestone of its first revolution, since it enabled mechanizing industrial processes
The third industrial revolution is represented by the computerization of systems and, especially, by the automation of production
That the need to exchange information in a quick and reliable way as well as provide autonomy to processes requires more technology than that provided until the third industrial revolution
Summary
The industry considered the creation of the steam engine a milestone of its first revolution, since it enabled mechanizing industrial processes. Machines and robots began to replace humans in processes and enabled a new reality of control and execution of production lines. It should be observed, that the need to exchange information in a quick and reliable way as well as provide autonomy to processes requires more technology than that provided until the third industrial revolution. That the need to exchange information in a quick and reliable way as well as provide autonomy to processes requires more technology than that provided until the third industrial revolution These necessities led to the beginning of a new shift: the fourth industrial revolution (Hopp and Spearman, 2011)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Brazilian Journal of Operations & Production Management
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
