The shortlist starts with the process—not a favourite brand.
Write down where the product starts, what must happen to it, and where it must finish. Record mass, size, variants, orientation, surfaces, tolerances and grip features. Then map each movement, decision, process dwell and interaction with machinery.
This information reveals whether the application needs flexible orientation, rapid planar movement, overhead conveyor tracking or dedicated palletising reach. Only then is it useful to compare individual robot models.
Define the complete payload
Add product, gripper, mounting plate, valves, sensors, cables and other moving hardware.
Check every working point
Model pick, place, approach, clearance, service and maintenance positions—not just maximum reach.
Build an honest cycle
Include grips, releases, sensing, machine dwell, product arrival, acceleration and recovery margin.
Design the wider cell
Tooling, presentation, fixtures, controls, vision, guarding and operator access can dominate performance.
Robot-selection checklist
Use this list to prepare a first technical discussion with an integrator.
| Task | Sequence, pick/place points, orientation, process action, decisions and completion state |
|---|---|
| Product | Dimensions, mass, centre of gravity, variants, tolerances, surface and fragility |
| Performance | Target output, shifts, duty, allowable stops, buffer and upstream/downstream constraints |
| Geometry | Available footprint, height, obstructions, machine openings, tool approach and service access |
| Environment | Dust, moisture, temperature, hygiene, fumes, cleanability and other site conditions |
| Project | Utilities, plant standards, interfaces, acceptance, documentation, training and support |