Custom user interface for Flexiv Rizon 4 sanding robot. Source: Flexiv Robotics
Flexiv Robotics Inc. claims to enhance multiple industrial processes, including sanding and sortation, by integrating sensing, robotics, and artificial intelligence. They specialize in developing and manufacturing general-purpose, adaptive robots.
Established in 2016, Flexiv produces the Rizon arm with seven degrees of freedom and the Moonlight force-controlled parallel robot. The company, headquartered in Santa Clara, Calif., also has offices in China, Taiwan, and Singapore.
Recently, Flexiv partnered with Red Bluff, Calif.-based systems integrator DOCO Engineering to expand its presence in North America. Additionally, they shared a case study and Earth Day initiatives.
Flexiv Robotics collaborated with EsVata Shutter in Rosemead, Calif., to automate the sanding of window blinds. Their adaptive technology increased the sanding process speed by 80% while improving the quality and consistency of surface finishing.
Paul Hsieh, founder of EsVata, stated, “Our commitment to quality led us to select the Rizon 4 from a sea of competitors. Its exceptional precision, powered by advanced force sensors in each of its seven joints, made it the ideal solution for our sanding needs.”
Flexiv combined their robotic arm and sensing technology with an OnRobot Sander to free up employees for more value-added tasks.
Howard Huang, operations director for North America at Flexiv, answered questions from The Robot Report:
What was required to integrate Flexiv and EsVata’s systems?
Huang: The integration required a customized approach due to EsVata’s lack of a PLC or an existing automated production environment. We implemented a standalone system that boosted EsVata’s production capabilities without a comprehensive revamp of their infrastructure, enabling a smooth integration.
How long did it take to set up?
Huang: The initial setup, including installation, configuration, and calibration of the robotic system, was completed in about three days. Production resumed on Tuesday after the installation over a long weekend.
Rizon has automated shutter sanding at EsVata. Source: Flexiv Robotics
System reduces staff effort, production time
What do the people who previously did this sanding do now? Do they supervise the robots, or what other tasks can they do?
Huang: With the sanding solution incorporated into the production line, some staff members have transitioned into supervisory roles to monitor the automated processes or have been assigned to specialized sanding tasks that require a human touch. This redistribution of labor has improved job satisfaction by reducing physical strain and monotony.
How long did it take for EsVata to realize the time savings on the shutter sanding?
Huang: EsVata recognized the time savings immediately, as the efficiency gains were apparent from the system’s initiation. The automated system was able to sand shutters quicker and to a higher standard, resulting in an 80% time decrease.
What are the next steps in this deployment?
Huang: EsVata is considering installing more adaptive automation solutions in its factory to increase production capacity. This decision will be based on ROI analysis, market conditions, and strategic expansion goals.
An EnVata worker supervises the Rizon sanding robot. Source: Flexiv Robotics
Flexiv Robotics gripper, cleaning station to aid recycling
Flexiv Robotics has enhanced the Grav Enhanced robotic gripper to be cleaned in its Grav Enhanced Automated Cleaning Station, helping the gripper maintain its effectiveness in picking up objects. They showcased a combination of their products for sorting household waste for recycling on Earth Day.
