Yorkshire-based instrumentation, automation and control company Total Automated Solutions (TAS) has launched a new robotics Proof-of-Concept Rental Service, designed to help manufacturers evaluate automation within their own production environments before making a full capital investment.
Based in Tockwith, between York and Wetherby, Total Automated Solutions provides industrial automation, control systems, electrical engineering and systems integration services to customers across the UK. Its new robotics rental model addresses one of the main barriers to robotic adoption: the uncertainty surrounding whether a proposed solution will deliver the required improvements in productivity, quality, safety and operating costs.
Through the service, manufacturers can rent a configured robotic solution for an agreed trial period, typically between two and six months. The system can be installed at the customer’s production facility or tested at the company’s workshop, depending on the application and operational requirements.
Total Automated Solutions engineers assess the process, configure and program the robot, and integrate the necessary grippers, guarding and safety systems. This allows the customer to evaluate the solution using real products, production conditions and performance data.
Potential applications include:
- Repetitive product handling
- Pick-and-place operations
- Machine loading and unloading
- Packing and palletising
- Process support
- Tasks presenting ergonomic or safety risks
- Production bottlenecks and labour-intensive operations
Kevin Chapman, owner and managing director at Total Automated Solutions, who is responsible for robotics rental, said: “Many manufacturers understand the potential benefits of robotics but need greater certainty before committing significant capital. A concept may appear viable on paper, but the real test is how it performs within the production environment. Our Proof-of-Concept Rental Service gives manufacturers the opportunity to test the technology, measure the results and build a robust business case. It turns automation from a theoretical proposal into a practical, evidence-based investment decision.”
The service is particularly relevant to small and medium-sized manufacturers seeking to modernise production while controlling financial and operational risk. It also allows engineering and production teams to understand how robotics could affect throughput, product quality, workforce deployment and existing processes before progressing to a permanent installation.
At the end of the trial, the customer can use the results to decide whether to purchase the robotic system, proceed with a fully engineered production cell or reconsider the proposed application. Where the trial proves successful, Total Automated Solutions can support the transition from proof of concept to permanent implementation.
The launch strengthens Yorkshire’s growing reputation for advanced manufacturing and engineering innovation. By offering practical access to robotic technology, Total Automated Solutions aims to help regional manufacturers improve competitiveness, address skills shortages and invest in production upgrades with greater confidence.
The new service complements the company’s existing capabilities in control-panel and MCC manufacture, PLC and SCADA software, electrical installation, industrial communications and complete systems integration.
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