7 Ways To Keep Your Robots in Tip-Top Shape

During the 1960s there was a futuristic cartoon named the Jetsons. It was about a family that lived in the far future. It was a fun show that showed a farfetched representation of the future. 

However, there were some aspects of the show that were very near to our reality. One aspect is the constant presence of robots. 

From the Jetsons’ robot maid Irona, to the robot arms that made meals, one can’t help but see the similar technology being used now. This is a clear indication that robotics technology is progressing a great deal. 

With these innovations, it won’t be surprising if all households start using robots in their homes. So as we head into this future, we should all know how to maintain robots. Here are 7 ways to keep your robot in tip-top shape.

Keep It as Dry as Possible

If there is one thing that could really damage a robot, it is moisture. Not only will it corrode the metal, which will inevitably deteriorate the robot’s chassis, it will also seep into the circuitry and dampen the wiring, and cause the equipment to malfunction in the long run. So make it a practice to check your robot for damp.

Regularly Check for Wear and Tear

Whether your robot is a personal robot for healthcare or a big robot arm for industrial uses, it is still important that you check.it for any kind of wear and tear. Remember that the older your robot, the more chances it has of accumulating damage.

 If you could spot the damage as early as possible, there is a better chance of minimizing the long-term damage. However, if you leave the repairs for later, then you might have to spend more money on the repairs later on. So it is a good idea to do a routine check-up of your robots at least once a month. 

Check for any chips or dents on the outer covering. You should also keep an ear out for any unusual sounds that your robot could make. If you hear any unusual clunking or whirring sounds you should check it right away.  

Inspect cables and power supply

When it comes to keeping your robot in tip-top shape, it is important that you check on the cables and power supply on a regular basis. Of all the parts in a robot, the most vulnerable parts are the cables. One frayed wire would have the robot malfunctioning in no time. So it is important that you check the wires for any type of damage. The damage could be frayed wires because of rat bites, or it could be burned wire due to overheating. 

As for the power supply, you should check that there are no leakages or frayed power cords. If the robot uses batteries, then you should check if the robot’s batteries are leaking or have no charge. If the robot uses electricity, then you should check the power cord if there are any damaged areas on the wire. 

Check vents and Cleaning fans

Most robots utilize vents and cleaning fans. They are meant to provide proper ventilation for the robot and prevent overheating. So it is important that you check the vents and cleaning fans for dust mites, lint, or debris of any kind. 

If there are any dirty areas on the vents and cleaning fans, you should take them apart and clean them as thoroughly as possible. This process is very tedious because you will have to be meticulous, however, remember that the vents and cleaning fans are essential for your robot’s ability to stay cool. So you should clean them on a regular basis.

Backup the Robot’s Memory

No matter how careful you are, there will be times where your computer’s programming software will get scrambled. So it is important that you back up the robot’s memory. This is specifically important for industrial robots because they rely on pre-made robotics programming. Industrial robot operators usually have their robots do a series of movements and positions. Then they input these sequences of movements into the robot’s memory. 

This programming method is very efficient, and once the robot has successfully assimilated the instructions it could perform these instructions right away. However, setting up these sequences is detail-oriented and could take up a lot of time. So if you want to save yourself the trouble of redoing the programming process, it is best that you backup your robot’s memory.

Check the Robot’s Joints for Repeatability

When you check your robot, you should check its joints for repeatability. This function is particularly important for industrial robots because they go through the same motions for hours. This constant movement will undoubtedly put a strain on robots’ joints, and if they are not properly maintained, the robot’s joints will get damaged and strained in the long run. So make it a habit to check the robot’s joints on a regular basis. 

Check Its Sensors for Cracks or Filth

This kind of maintenance is particularly important for personal robots because they use sensors to navigate through obstacles. Consider these sensors as the personal robot’s eyes, and if they are damaged then your robot won’t be able to function well. So make it a habit to check the sensors for cracks or scratches. You should also check the lens for any signs of dust because they could obstruct the robot’s senses.

Conclusion

As robot technology advances through the years, there is a big chance that most households will have robots of their own. So as we head into a time where robots are a norm, we should know how to maintain them properly. With these robot maintenance tips, you’ll know how to keep your robots in tip-top shape.