RPA (Robotic Process Automation)
RPA in R&D
Key Takeaways
- RPA automates data aggregation and repetitive simulations to free researcher time.
- 24/7 robots enable overnight experiments, continuous data collection and faster cycles.
- Automated literature/patent crawling keeps teams current and reduces manual search effort.
- Nocode RK Series lets researchers build secure automations for proprietary tools.
The Research and Development (R&D) department is a vital function that drives a company's competitiveness and shapes its future. However, the reality is that talented researchers and engineers spend a significant amount of time on auxiliary tasks unrelated to their core research, such as transcribing experimental data, conducting literature searches, and preparing reports.
By automating these routine tasks with "RPA (Robotic Process Automation)", you can create an environment where researchers can dedicate themselves to creative activities—analysis, ideation, and the generation of new ideas.
This article outlines the challenges faced by R&D departments, explains the benefits of RPA adoption, and presents concrete use cases. Discover how KEYENCE's RPA, the "RK Series," can accelerate your company's innovation.
Challenges in R&D Departments
In the R&D field, where innovation is paramount, the following challenges are common:
Processing Massive Amounts of Experimental Data
Raw data output from various measuring instruments in CSV or text format is manually transcribed and aggregated into tools like Excel. This is not only time-consuming but also carries a high risk of transcription errors.
Manual Information Gathering
Searching for new research themes and tracking technological trends involves manually browsing multiple academic databases and patent information sites, which is highly inefficient.
Repetitive, Routine Simulations
Researchers spend valuable time repeatedly running simulations with slightly different parameters and recording the results each time.
Burden of Report and Application Preparation
A great deal of effort is spent on transferring data and adjusting formats when creating research reports and application documents for public institutions.
Benefits of RPA Implementation
Implementing RPA can dramatically improve R&D productivity.
- Increased Research Time and Productivity: By delegating auxiliary tasks like data processing and information gathering to RPA, researchers can free up several hours a day to focus on their primary research activities.
- Improved Data Reliability: Automated data transfer by RPA eliminates human error withaccuracy. The integrity of the data ensures the reliability of the analysis and the research itself.
- 24/7 Experiments and Research: By running RPA overnight and on weekends, long-running simulations and periodic information gathering from the web can be automated, accelerating the R&D cycle.
- Promotion of Innovation: Freeing researchers from mundane tasks allows them to spend more time on creative activities like analysis, discussion, and ideation, fostering an environment ripe for new discoveries and innovation.
RPA Use Cases in R&D
RPA can be applied to various processes within the R&D workflow.
| Task | Automation with RPA |
|---|---|
| Automated Aggregation of Experimental Data | RPA automatically reads multiple CSV files output from measuring instruments, extracts the necessary data, and aggregates it into a master Excel sheet, including generating graphs. |
| Automated Collection of Literature and Patent Information | Based on preset keywords, RPA periodically crawls multiple academic databases and patent office websites. It compiles a list of new information and notifies the relevant person via email. |
| Automated Execution of Simulations | Using a parameter list prepared in Excel, RPA inputs values into simulation software, runs the simulation, and automatically records the results, repeating this process as needed. |
| Support for Research Report Creation | RPA automatically pastes aggregated experimental data and graphs into the designated sections of a company's report template (Word or PowerPoint). |
| Competitor Technology Trend Analysis | RPA periodically crawls competitor websites and press releases to gather information on new technologies and products, creating a summary to share with stakeholders. |
Why Choose KEYENCE's RK Series RPA?
KEYENCE's "RK Series" is the perfect fit for the highly specialized R&D environment.
1. Compatible with Any Research Software
Even with proprietary analysis software or legacy measurement systems that are difficult for standard RPA to automate, KEYENCE's advanced image recognition technology ensures stable and reliable operation.
2. Puts Researchers in Control of Automation
No programming is required. When researchers identify a task they want to automate, they can immediately try it out by simply recording their usual PC operations.
3. Strong Support for Complex Automation
From consulting on which tasks would be most effective to automate, to assisting with the creation of complex data processing scenarios, KEYENCE's dedicated specialists will partner with you to enhance R&D productivity.
For detailed materials or a consultation on R&D applications, please feel free to contact us.
