The arrival of your mobile robot (AGV&AMR) is imminent. Therefore, you should make important preparations to initiate the start of the integration in the best possible way. The proof of concept (PoC) is significant for the success of the automation project, as the mobile robot is tested on-site. In the article, you will learn what you need to consider in the first days.
 
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Seek support for integration

 
Carrying out robot integration independently can be a major challenge for newcomers to robotics. That's why professional assistance is advisable here, as the following tasks are completed during the setup process:

• Mount the battery and other parts that have been disconnected to protect the device from transport.
• Mapping of the robot's movement area
• Establishing the connection to the network
• Creation of the first mission or task
   

Ask the robot manufacturer for help with integration or hire an external robot integrator for implementation. Usually, the robot manufacturer will proactively offer you support. WAKU Robotics can assist you in communicating with the robot manufacturer and with the whole PoC.
 

Manage responsibilities

 
It would be fatal if the robot integration is disrupted because no contact person in your company is available during the integration. This could significantly slow down the PoC as the integrator cannot proceed with his work. Therefore, appoint a person in your warehouse who is sufficiently empowered to make decisions and who knows your warehouse operations well.
 

Involve all relevant stakeholders

 
The arrival of the new "robot colleague" is an exciting event for all stakeholders. Many questions arise regarding how the robot works. Observing the principle of transparent communication, you can explain to your core team how the process to be automated will be designed and what tasks the robot will perform in the future. You can ask the integrator to demonstrate how the robot works. However, it is also advisable for the employees to interact with the robot independently. Any questions that arise during operation can then be clarified immediately. By involving your core team, you create awareness and understanding of the robot.
 

Organize a kick-off meeting

 
Where many people are involved, it is advisable to organize a meeting in which everyone involved in the automation project is brought up to the same level of knowledge. Then you can assign roles and associated tasks. If there is no integration with any existing WMS or another control system, you should assign the robot's task management to one person. Usually, the shift or team leader is responsible for this. Also, in the meeting, make sure everyone understands what KPIs need to be analyzed to measure the success of the robot project. With WAKU Care, you keep track of everything. Find all relevant KPIs, get error messages, and discover potentials.
 

Inform about the duration of the integration process

 
The integration process can indeed take some time. The complexity of the system, as well as the task, determines the duration of the integration. It is also important to communicate that robot integration is not a one-time procedure. An iterative review and adaptation process characterizes the PoC. This means that the robot setup has to be improved when changes (e.g. in the team, the device, or the process) or problems occur during the PoC in order to achieve the defined KPIs.
 

Start your proof of concept with mobile robots now

 
More information about PoC with mobile robots can be found in the Robot Operations Framework. Download the manual for free and start your Robot Automation Journey. You can also use the checklists, posters, and other material to be optimally prepared for all the important steps of your Robot Automation Journey.

Feel free to contact us with any questions or suggestions. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!