In the manufacturing industry, companies are clamoring for products that can automate processes to increase efficiency. The safety and comfort of machines and their operators is also paramount, causing a rising demand for more protective workplace solutions.
That’s why innovative solutions, such as programmable support arms, operator control systems and enclosures, are becoming more essential to meeting business goals, while boosting equipment and worker safety on the manufacturing floor.
Mounted onto a machine, support arm systems can be customized to do many labor-intensive and repetitive jobs. From applying paint to cars to picking warehouse goods, these “robot arms” offer a wide range of motion for hard-to-reach areas and highly intricate tasks.
In addition, operator control systems—and the Human Interface Machine (HMI) systems that interact with them—monitor and manage manufacturing equipment. Since these control systems and HMIs can be exposed to hazardous elements, they also need to be enclosed for protection, yet in a way that doesn’t restrict functionality.
That’s where Teknokol’s HMI enclosures and suspensions arms come in. Headquartered in Bursa, Turkey, Teknokol prides itself in delivering solutions like these for manufacturers seeking more efficient, operator-friendly solutions.
“Our goal is to help customers decrease costs, energy and production times, while meeting the ergonomic and safety needs of equipment and workers,” said Huseyin Uzunoglu, Teknokol’s Chairman of the Board.
Becoming a Renowned Global Brand
Since opening its first facility in 2012, Teknokol has made a significant impact across a range of segments, including industrial machine builders, automation and retrofitting companies, as well as telecom, energy and oil and gas companies.
Although it is a medium-sized, family-owned company, it has grown to be a globally known brand, covering domestic and international markets.
“Today, we are a supplier to many international brands, such as Ford, Samsung, Hyundai and Bosch,” said Uzunoglu, highlighting the company’s success. “We aim to be one of the top five suppliers in the world for support arm systems and control panel solutions, as well as enclosures and other aluminum joints, stands and kiosks.”
Huseyin Uzunoglu credits this progress to Teknokol’s focus on helping customers solve their toughest challenges. “We are a pioneer in delivering reliable, innovative designs and high-quality products at competitive prices. Customers also appreciate our customized approach, pre- and post-sales support and fast delivery times.”
Enclosures to Protect Equipment and Workers
HMI enclosures, designed to protect and house operator control panels and HMIs, help prevent damages that can happen in harsh manufacturing environments where dust, oil or water could harm systems and interfere with production.
Made to withstand the rigors of these types of settings, Teknokol HMI enclosures are made of carbon steel or stainless steel. Modular and customizable, they can house a range of systems, such as Siemens, Omron, B&R, Beckhoff, Advantech and many more.
Depending upon the needs of the environment, customers can choose from two Teknokol enclosure solutions,Eco Panel Systems or TKP2000 Panel Systems.
The Eco Panel Systems are available in various models, with different depths and features. Customers can choose those with no handles, one or two. There are choices that come with keyboard covers, and some with cooling systems.
TKP2000 Panel Systems are also available with one or two arms, plus an armless option.
Arming Enclosures for Added Flexibility
Teknokol’s range of support arm systems provide a connection between manufacturing equipment and the systems that control them. These highly adaptable arms can do many things humans cannot.
“They’re similar to a human arm, since they contain multiple joints for a high degree of flexibility,” said Uzunoglu. “However, our support arm systems are capable of performing tasks more precisely and consistently, and without the fatigue humans feel.”
The company’s HMI Enclosure Suspension Arm Systems are specifically made to work with its HMI enclosures. They are easily adjustable, allowing operators to move the arm in different positions to suit the job at hand in a way that’s comfortable for workers.
“By enabling workers to move enclosures to an angle and position that’s ideal for them, we can help reduce discomfort and upper body strain later on,” explained Uzunoglu.
The company also offers ergonomically designed kiosk and cabinet systems, along with coupling towers that connect control systems to a floor, rather than a support arm. LED signal lights also serve as a visual and audible warning to workers about potential danger or hazards in the work environment.
Focusing on Continuous Improvement
In addition to expanding its distributor network and maintaining long-term customer relationships, Uzunoglu shared his aspirations for the future of Teknokol. “Our mission is to continually improve our products and our company,” he said. “We’ll work to remain a positive force in the industry and in our customers’ minds.”