Robots typically rely on their repeatability to perform automated operations but there are some tasks where inherent accuracy is just as important. One example of this is robot machining operations, particularly so if one off products are being produced. There are many factors that influence the accuracy of automation such as the position of the joints, end effector loads, dynamic loads, environmental effects, wear and tear on the robot etc. The challenge is that many of these influences vary over time and result in a variation of performance.

In one example we recently reviewed the customer was having to apply a lengthy, iterative process involving machining, measuring, re-programming, re-machining (sometime several times) to achieve the correct result. This increased the recurring cost of the process threefold consuming both unnecessary machine time and labour.