When should a complete robot system validation be performed after a major repair?

A complete robot system validation should be performed immediately after any major repair that could affect the robot's safety, performance, or accuracy. A major repair includes any maintenance or component replacement that involves disassembling or modifying the robot's mechanical structure, electrical system, or control software. This could include replacing a servo motor, repairing a gearbox, replacing a safety-related component, or updating the robot controller's firmware. The purpose of the validation is to verify that the repair has been performed correctly and that the robot is functioning as intended and meeting all safety requirements. The validation process should include a comprehensive set of tests and inspections, including checks of the robot's range of motion, accuracy, repeatability, and stopping performance. It should also include a thorough inspection of all safety-related components, such as emergency stop buttons, light curtains, and safety interlocks. For example, if a servo motor is replaced, the validation process should include testing the motor's torque and speed, as well as verifying the robot's ability to accurately position its end-effector. Performing a complete robot system validation after a major repair ensures that the robot is safe to operate and will perform its intended tasks reliably. Any discrepancies or failures should be addressed before returning the robot to production. Thorough validation is crucial to prevent further damage or injury. The complexity of the validation should be proportional to the complexity and criticality of the repair.