2009-08-19 - Workshops on the safe operation and design of robotics equipment were held in Melbourne recently as part of ABB’s National Robotics Competition
ABB successfully held training workshops on the safe operation and design of machinery recently, with particular emphasis on robotics. Roger Lim, an expert in the field of robotic safety systems, conducted the sessions as part of ABB’s National Robotics Innovation Competition, now in its third year.
The workshop was embraced by students from RMIT, University of Melbourne and Swinbourne University with a variety of disciplines including mechatronic, manufacturing, electrical and mechanical engineering represented.
A quick fire delivery from Roger Lim outlined the current Australian Standards on machinery safeguarding and how they are interpreted. Real life scenarios delivered by Roger Lim and ABB’s Robotics Manager, Paul Gekas provided students with a better understanding of how solutions can be developed for safety to ensure a safe operating environment. ABB’s and the broader industry’s commitment to safety was echoed throughout the session with students awareness heightened by examples of safety not being properly considered.
The workshop was part of a series of training sessions for students participating in ABB’s National Robotics Innovation Competition. The previous sessions held involved discussions on project management and developing robotic systems - students have also received training and instruction on ABB’s robot studio software.
The National Robotics Innovation Competition now in its third year is run by ABB Australia to foster collaboration between students, universities and industry. The objective of the competition is for university students, in conjunction with industry partners, to develop a project proposal for an innovative and cost effective way to manufacture an existing component or improve a manufacturing process through the use of Robot-based automation.
Previous submissions have included proposals for the car industry, consumer goods and metals industries. ABB is continually seeking companies who would like their concepts investigated. Entry is at no cost and is designed to benefit all involved.
For more information on the competition, to participate in future sessions, or if you have an application that could use the innovative ideas of tomorrows engineers, email robots@au.abb.com or visit www.abbaustralia.com.au