How Manufacturing Automation Is Evolving
Nathan Sykes

MARCH 07, 2018

Manufacturing automation has been common since the 1970s. Advances in technology, including robotics, big data, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things have improved factory production since then.

Collaborative robots − also called cobots − are sweeping across the industry. Rather than take over for laborers completely, cobots can work alongside humans to improve efficiency and reduce hazards. Autonomous mobile platforms are popular in factories and warehouses, as seen in Amazon’s fulfillment centers.

In addition to being able to work alongside humans, their older, caged cousins, cobots can be more versatile. They are smaller and can handle multiple tasks, such as pick-and-place operations for goods on a production line.

Cobots can help eliminate rote or dangerous work, freeing humans for more satisfying jobs. People can aid with perception and avoid repetitive stress.

In addition, cobots are increasingly backed by machine learning and AI platforms that let them perform more advanced tasks and share lessons learned.

(Adapted from www.roboticsbusinessreview.com)

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