Why You shouldn't Overlook Usage-Based Robot Maintenance

Published on 27.10.2023

Reading time: ca. 3 minutes

How can I ensure that my mobile robot (AGV&AMR) operates reliably on a continuous basis for maximum productivity? Finding a solution to this question is quite simple: regular maintenance is the key. However if you want to do it right, determining the right time for the next maintenance and what exactly should be checked next is not so easy to answer. Traditional maintenance schedules might not always align with the actual usage patterns, leading to inefficiencies and downtime. That's where usage-based maintenance strategies come into play, offering a more proactive and tailored approach to robot upkeep. In this article, we explore the benefits of a usage-based maintenance strategy.
 

Defining usage-based maintenance

 
Usage-based maintenance is a preventive maintenance strategy approach that relies on monitoring the actual usage or operational data of a machine, equipment, or system to determine the timing and nature of maintenance activities. Instead of performing maintenance tasks at fixed intervals, regardless of the equipment's condition, usage-based maintenance takes into account real-time data, such as the number of operating hours, cycles, or specific usage metrics.
 

Robot Maintenance based on actual usage

 
By analyzing robots usage data, maintenance activities can be scheduled precisely when needed, optimizing the maintenance process and reducing unnecessary downtime and costs. Usage-based maintenance employs a metric system, e.g. based on the number of missions completed. By setting a predefined threshold, say, after every 100 missions, maintenance activities are triggered. This approach acknowledges that the wear and tear of robots are directly related to their operational workload.
 

Benefits of Usage-Based Maintenance

 

  • Cost Efficiency: Resources are utilized judiciously, targeting maintenance precisely where and when it's needed the most, reducing unnecessary expenses.

  • Minimized Downtime: Proactive maintenance minimizes unexpected breakdowns, ensuring continuous operations and productivity.

  • Extended Lifespan: By addressing issues promptly, robots endure less wear and tear, leading to a longer operational life.

  • Data-Driven Decisions: Utilizing metrics provides valuable data insights, enabling continuous improvement of preventive maintenance strategies.
     

To wrap things up

 
In conclusion, embracing a usage-based maintenance approach for mobile robots is a strategic move toward operational excellence. By defining usage-based maintenance strategies for their mobile robots (AGV&AMR) businesses can ensure their robots function seamlessly, meeting the demands of modern industrial environments.
 

Choose Usage-Based Maintenance with WAKU Care

 

maintenance strategies

With WAKU Care, you can monitor performance metrics, usage patterns, and historical data. The system can identify subtle signs that indicate potential hardware issues. Instead of waiting for components to fail, WAKU Care prompts timely replacements, effectively minimizing unplanned downtime. This proactive approach optimizes the robot's performance, extends its operational life, and significantly reduces maintenance costs. Whether it's date-based, usage-based, or due to anomalies – you decide the maintenance approach for each robot.
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