Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing

Journal Name: Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing

Journal Type: Q1

ISSN: 07365845

Subject Area and Category: Computer Science Computer Science Applications Software Engineering Control and Systems Engineering Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering Mathematics Mathematics (miscellaneous)

Publisher: Elsevier Ltd

Research Ranking: 152

Publication Type: Journals

H-Index: 133

Coverage: 1984-1994, 1996-2025

Editors-in-Chief: Lihui Wang

Research Impact Score: 4.4

Impact Factor: 9.1

SCIMAGO SJR: 2.906

APC Cost: $4,540

Homepage: https://www.journals.elsevier.com/robotics-and-computer-integrated-manufacturing

Submission Link: https://www.journals.elsevier.com/robotics-and-computer-integrated-manufacturing

Contact Email: lihui.wang@iip.kth.se.

Address: Inc. 395 Saw Mill River Road Elmsford, NY

Overview

In the rapidly evolving world of manufacturing, robotics and computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM) play pivotal roles in shaping the future of production. These cutting-edge technologies have revolutionized industries by improving efficiency, precision, and productivity, while also reducing human error and operational costs. This article will explore the integration of robotics and CIM, the benefits they offer, and how they are transforming modern manufacturing processes.

What is Robotics in Manufacturing?

Robotics in manufacturing refers to the use of robotic systems to automate tasks traditionally performed by humans. These robots, typically equipped with artificial intelligence (AI), sensors, and sophisticated control systems, are designed to carry out repetitive, dangerous, or complex tasks with high precision and speed. In the context of manufacturing, robots are employed for various applications such as assembly, welding, painting, packaging, and material handling.

The key advantages of using robotics in manufacturing include enhanced productivity, improved product quality, and the ability to operate in hazardous environments where human workers might be at risk. Furthermore, robots can work around the clock, ensuring that production runs smoothly and efficiently with minimal downtime.

What is Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)?

Computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM) is an advanced system that integrates computer-based technologies to manage and control manufacturing processes. CIM combines computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), robotics, and data analytics into a cohesive framework, enabling seamless communication and coordination between different stages of the manufacturing process.

The core goal of CIM is to enhance flexibility, reduce waste, and optimize the overall production flow. By using real-time data, CIM systems can monitor and adjust production schedules, inventory management, and machine operations, ensuring the most efficient use of resources. This integrated approach allows manufacturers to respond quickly to changes in demand or design modifications, making it highly adaptable in today’s fast-paced market environment.

Benefits of Robotics and CIM in Manufacturing

Increased Efficiency: Robotics and CIM significantly enhance manufacturing productivity by automating repetitive tasks, reducing cycle times, and improving throughput.
Higher Precision and Quality: Robotic systems, with their advanced sensors and AI-driven control, ensure high levels of precision, resulting in superior product quality and consistency.
Cost Savings: Automation leads to long-term cost reductions by minimizing the need for manual labor, reducing material waste, and cutting operational expenses associated with human errors.
Improved Safety: Robotics take on dangerous tasks, such as handling hazardous materials or performing high-risk operations, reducing workplace injuries and enhancing overall safety.
Flexibility and Customization: CIM systems provide manufacturers with the flexibility to adjust production lines quickly, accommodating changes in product design or production volume without extensive downtime.
Real-time Data Analysis: Integrated systems enable real-time data analysis, empowering manufacturers to make informed decisions about production processes, resource allocation, and performance optimization.

About

In today's fast-paced industrial landscape, robotics and computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM) have become the backbone of modern production systems. These technologies are transforming manufacturing processes, enhancing productivity, and improving product quality. In this article, we'll explore how robotics and CIM are revolutionizing industries and their growing significance in shaping the future of manufacturing.

What is Robotics in Manufacturing?

Robotics refers to the use of robots—automated machines capable of performing tasks traditionally carried out by humans. In manufacturing, robots are designed to handle repetitive, dangerous, or highly precise tasks, such as assembly, welding, painting, packaging, and quality control. The main goal of implementing robotics in manufacturing is to streamline processes, reduce human error, and improve overall efficiency.

The use of robots in manufacturing has grown exponentially over the past few decades. Today, industries ranging from automotive to electronics rely on robotic systems for their high level of precision and ability to work tirelessly without fatigue. The integration of robotics has also led to a significant reduction in labor costs, enabling companies to achieve more with fewer resources.

What is Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)?

Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) is a comprehensive approach that uses computer systems to automate and control the entire manufacturing process. It integrates various functions, including design, planning, production, and control, into a single, unified system. The goal of CIM is to streamline the entire production process, making it more efficient, flexible, and responsive to changing demands.

CIM systems consist of software and hardware tools that facilitate communication between different stages of production. These systems help manufacturers reduce lead times, lower costs, and enhance the overall quality of products. By linking all aspects of manufacturing—from inventory management to production scheduling—CIM ensures that production runs smoothly and optimally.

The Synergy of Robotics and CIM

When robotics and CIM work together, the result is a highly efficient and automated production system. CIM systems provide the necessary data and instructions for robots to execute tasks with precision and accuracy. Robots, on the other hand, carry out tasks that are physically demanding or require high levels of repetition, while the CIM system oversees the entire process.

This combination leads to numerous benefits, such as:

Increased Efficiency: Robotics handles tasks quickly and consistently, while CIM optimizes workflows and schedules, ensuring that production runs at full capacity with minimal downtime.
Improved Product Quality: Robots provide consistent quality by performing repetitive tasks with high precision, while CIM ensures that the manufacturing process adheres to strict quality standards.
Cost Reduction: Robotics helps minimize labor costs, while CIM reduces material waste and production errors, leading to significant cost savings for manufacturers.
Flexibility and Customization: CIM systems allow for easy adaptation to changing market demands, and robots can quickly switch between different tasks, enabling manufacturers to produce a wide range of products without the need for extensive retooling.

The Future of Robotics and CIM

The future of robotics and CIM is incredibly promising. As technology continues to evolve, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are becoming integral parts of both systems. These technologies enable robots and CIM systems to adapt and make decisions in real time, further enhancing automation and efficiency.

Additionally, advancements in cloud computing and 5G networks will allow manufacturers to access and control their production systems remotely, further increasing flexibility and reducing operational costs.

Scope

In today’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, the integration of robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) plays a pivotal role in transforming manufacturing operations. These advanced technologies are streamlining production, increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing product quality. As businesses aim to stay competitive in a global market, the scope of robotics and CIM continues to expand, offering innovative solutions across multiple sectors.

What is Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing?

Robotics refers to the design, construction, and operation of robots, which are programmable machines capable of carrying out tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously. When combined with Computer-Integrated Manufacturing, which involves the use of computer systems to control various aspects of the manufacturing process, a synergistic relationship emerges. CIM integrates hardware and software systems into production lines, allowing seamless communication between machines, tools, and human operators.

The Scope and Benefits of Robotics in Manufacturing

Increased Efficiency and Productivity Robotics enables manufacturers to automate repetitive tasks that would otherwise require significant human labor. Robots can work continuously without fatigue, enhancing production rates and reducing downtime. This increase in productivity directly impacts profitability and operational output.
Enhanced Precision and Quality Control Robots are programmed to perform tasks with a high level of precision, reducing the likelihood of human error. In industries like automotive and electronics manufacturing, this translates to higher quality products, fewer defects, and greater consistency in production.
Improved Worker Safety Robots are ideal for performing dangerous tasks, such as handling hazardous materials or working in extreme environments. By offloading these responsibilities to robots, manufacturers can minimize workplace injuries and enhance the safety of human workers.
Customization and Flexibility Modern robots, especially collaborative robots (cobots), are designed to work alongside human operators. This collaboration allows for greater flexibility in production lines, enabling manufacturers to adapt quickly to changing market demands or custom orders without a complete overhaul of their systems.

The Scope and Benefits of CIM in Manufacturing

Streamlined Operations CIM integrates various production processes, such as design, inventory management, scheduling, and quality control, into one cohesive system. This streamlining ensures smoother transitions between different stages of production, reducing delays and inefficiencies.
Real-Time Data and Decision Making By utilizing data collected from sensors and machine feedback, CIM allows for real-time monitoring of manufacturing processes. This data-driven approach enables quick decision-making, allowing manufacturers to identify issues and implement corrective actions promptly.
Cost Reduction CIM helps reduce manufacturing costs by optimizing resource usage, minimizing waste, and improving energy efficiency. By integrating everything from machine operations to supply chain management, companies can achieve more with fewer resources, which leads to cost savings in the long run.
Scalability and Future-Proofing The adaptability of CIM systems allows manufacturers to scale their operations as demand grows. As new technologies emerge, CIM can be easily upgraded to incorporate innovations, ensuring that businesses remain competitive and technologically advanced in the long term.