In a discussion with Machine Design, Dale Walsh from Roboworx outlines the applications and environments where robots are used and emphasizes the importance of preventive maintenance for robotic fleets, especially for sectors where environmental factors can affect reliability.
We learn about the recommended maintenance schedule, which is tailored to OEM specifications, and what the most common components that need servicing include.
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Walsh says that common customer concerns regarding robot adoption include support and training, noting that companies often worry about operational reliability and their staff’s ability to use robots effectively. He also touched on robotics as a service (RaaS), highlighting that its uniqueness is due to the absence of a secondary market for robotics. Unlike other technologies, where reselling is common, robots typically don’t have a resale value, making it important to create financing options that accommodate capital constraints.
Looking forward, Walsh sees trends such as improved design for serviceability and greater interoperability among different robot types, aiming for better coordination in shared environments and easier access to critical components for maintenance.
