Flexiv deploys Rizon 4 for sanding window shutters

General-purpose robot provider Flexiv Robotics Inc. recently announced a deployment for window shutter manufacturer EsVata at its California factory.

EsVata chose to integrate Flexiv’s Rizon 4 adaptive robot arm into their production line to automate the time-consuming task of sanding window shutters, which was previously accomplished by skilled manual labor.

Paul Hsieh, EsVata founder, and Gavin Bomhoff, Flexiv on-site application engineer, with Flexiv’s Rizon 4 adaptive robot arm outfitted for sanding at EsVata’s factory. Source: Flexiv Robotics

“Our commitment to quality led us to select the Rizon 4 from a sea of competitors,” said Paul Hsieh, founder of EsVata. “Its exceptional precision, powered by advanced force sensors in each of its seven joints, made it the ideal solution for our sanding needs.”

Flexiv said its adaptive technology has sped up EsVata’s sanding process by 80%, while also increasing the quality and consistency of surface finishing.

Automation frees employees for higher value tasks

Flexiv said installation of its Rizon 4 has reduced EsVata's sanding times and cut material costs through more efficient use of sanding discs with industrial-grade force control.

“Equipped with integrated force-torque sensors that measure with greater speed and precision than any human, the Rizon 4 reacts to surface changes instantaneously,” said Gavin Bomhoff, Flexiv on-site application engineer. “This capability not only enables a superior level of finishing but also eliminates the need for specialized end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) and force sensing during sanding tasks.”

An EsVata staff member operates Flexiv’s Rizon 4 adaptive robot arm with an OnRobot sander attached to the universal mounting flange. Source: Flexiv Robotics

By automating sanding, EsVata’s employees are now freed from monotonous, labor-intensive sanding tasks, which enables them to engage in more valuable roles within the company.

Flexiv said this reallocation of human resources underscores EsVata’s commitment to enhancing employee satisfaction, and highlights its belief in enhancing the impact of human labor through collaborative robotics rather than replacing it.

Customized interface, universal mount enables adaptable operation

To guarantee a smooth transition to the new production process, Flexiv said its engineers worked in close partnership with the EsVata team to ensure a seamless deployment and commissioning process.

Flexiv developed a custom, user-friendly interface for EsVata. The custom UI is shown here being calibrated for operation with an OnRobot sander. Source: Flexiv Robotics

Integral to the project was the OnRobot Sander, which was attached to Rizon's universal mounting flange. Flexiv also developed a custom user-friendly interface for EsVata.

The custom interface and universal mounting flange setup enables EsVata to make on-the-fly modifications to the sanding program or quickly and easily create entirely new sanding tasks.

Want to learn more about robot and automation system integration? This article was featured in the December 2024 Robotics 24/7 Special Focus Issue titled “The process of robot integration.”