Automated assembly systems rely heavily on robotic devices designed to transfer components from a source location to a predetermined destination. These systems typically employ a combination of vacuum, gripper, or other specialized tooling to manipulate parts of varying sizes, weights, and materials. For example, surface-mount technology (SMT) production utilizes these devices to place electronic components onto printed circuit boards.
The ability to automate repetitive placement tasks offers significant advantages, including increased throughput, improved precision, and reduced labor costs. Historically, manual placement processes were time-consuming and prone to human error. The evolution of these automated systems has revolutionized industries from electronics manufacturing to food packaging, enabling faster production cycles, higher quality output, and greater flexibility in product design.