Why is repeatability an essential characteristic for robots?

Repeatability is crucial for robots because it ensures consistent performance over multiple cycles. This characteristic allows robots to perform the same task with the same precision every time, which is fundamental in applications such as manufacturing, assembly, and quality control. When a robot can repeat its movements accurately, it minimizes variations in output, leading to higher quality products and reduced error rates. This reliability is particularly important in environments where products need to meet strict specifications and tolerances.

For instance, in an assembly line, if a robot is tasked with placing components in a specific location, repeatability ensures that each component is placed in the exact same way every time the task is executed. Consistency in performance builds trust in robotic systems, making them indispensable in automated processes.