RDS - ROBOTICS
About Us
I am Richard Zhao, the founder of RDS Robotics
It is my great pleasure to have you read this chapter.
My passion for technology began in childhood, and I've come to realize that technology can be a great ally when used properly—it can help reduce human suffering. This belief inspired me to start Gan-RS.
I've observed many people working on conveyor belts, performing assembly tasks manually. It might be surprising that, despite the advanced automatic assembly machines available today, manual assembly is still common. This often occurs because automatic machines require 1-2 hours for adjustment and calibration, while small orders, such as quantities of 1,000, can be completed by hand in the same amount of time.
This approach seems reasonable at first glance, but as with all things, there are two sides to the story. While humans are adaptable and can swiftly switch between tasks, the repetitive awkward movements involved in manual assembly can lead to chronic health issues. In particular, positioning is a specialized job in the conveyor assembly process, and it's concerning that 8 out of 10 workers in these positions suffer from conditions like frozen shoulder due to repetitive motions.
Just as the electric car was invented before the combustion engine, gantry robots were conceptualized as far back as the 1850s, while SCARA robots were introduced in 1978. So, why is RDS Robotics investing four years into developing what might seem like an 'old-fashioned' machine? The answer lies in the evolution of technology and the demand for enhanced functionality, reliability, and adaptability. By reimagining and modernizing the gantry robot design, we aim to meet contemporary industrial needs while leveraging the strengths and insights of its historical design.
"He then used a measuring tape to measure the light bulb and did a lot of calculations too. However, he still could not find the volume of the light bulb. Edison saw this poor guy and said: ‘Upton, why don’t you try this method?’ He filled the light bulb with water until it was full and passed it to Upton saying: ‘You can find the volume of the light bulb using a measuring cylinder to measure the volume of water.’ "
At Gan-RS, we find ourselves in a similar situation when discussing SCARA robots. Firstly, SCARA robots are compact, stylish, and popular. However, despite their popularity, they are industrial tools that must ensure safety for collaborative workers. Ideally, they should be more robust than human workers; otherwise, what value do they provide?
Have SCARA robots achieved these goals? The answer is mixed. Yes, they are tireless machines that can operate day and night. However, they are not particularly safe for those working nearby. Additionally, they often lack the strength needed—the most powerful SCARA robots can handle a maximum payload of only 20 kg, while the average capacity is less than 5 kg. Clearly, they cannot compete with the physical strength of a human worker.
The reason for this limitation is straightforward: the structural design. 1 kg payload at the far end of a SCARA arm can exert up to 100 times the pressure on the root axis bearing when stationary, and this leverage effect becomes even more pronounced during dynamic operation.
It all began with a group of people who believe industrial robot can be versatile and cost-effective but no compromized on reliability. We have design and manufacturing skills, and passion for better robot. Together, we established RDS, a company dedicated to harnessing cutting-edge technology for greater industrial robotic services. To learn more, browse through our site or contact us directly.
Thank you to the RMIT alumni for their support and for connecting us with a broader world.
