PECM Issue 46 2020 | Page 97

BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN HUMAN AND ROBOT AR operator guidance systems, like the Arkite Human Interface Mate (HIM), use AR to transform workstations into a digital and interactive environment. Operator guidance systems reduce human errors by projecting step-by-step instructions onto a surface that guide operators as they work. These systems use safety features, like light picking and visual projection, to notify the user if a step is not completed correctly. It maintains safety and consistency by not allowing the operator to move on unless the task is completed to the correct quality standard. These guidance systems work on a rightfirst-time model and reduce the waste commonly caused by human error by up to 75 per cent, delivering a faster return on investment and further bridging the gap between humans and robots. The global COVID-19 pandemic has forced many operators to develop new skills as they take on a more varied role in a smaller workforce. AR also delivers training benefits. Embedded smart sensors add validation by taking time stamps and qualitatively measuring performance to ensure that certain tasks have been completed correctly. Embedded smart sensors reduce the need for a large amount of management support and training, without forfeiting high quality standards and control over the assembly line. These systems also digitalise the resulting data and integrate it with existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, cutting down on paperwork. Humans will never have the precision of robots during manufacturing, but the human qualities are why people are so useful. Plant managers can give their operators tools, like AR guidance systems, to make them perform with some of the benefits of a robot, getting the best of both worlds. To find out more, visit www. thesempregroup.com today to read more about how you can benefit from integrating AR systems into your production line. Or, to speak to an expert, call +44 (0)1452 632712. For further information, please visit www.thesempregroup.com Issue 46 PECM 97