Robotics in Production

Introduction to Robotics in Production

• Robotics in production refers to the use of automated programmable machinery, often artificial intelligence-based, in manufacturing processes.
• They are generally used for tasks which are dangerous, unpleasant, demanding or repetitive, allowing human labour to be utilised in more complex or skilled areas.

Application of Robotics in Production

• Assembly line work: Robots are commonly found in the assembly lines of many industries, including car manufacturing and electronics. They perform repetitive tasks with greater accuracy and efficiency than humans.
• Dangerous tasks: Robots are used in situations which are harmful to humans such as handling hazardous materials, painting, welding or working in extreme temperatures.
• Testing and Quality Control: Robotics can be used for quality control, executing consistent checks and maintaining records of the inspection process.
• Precision work: Cambridge-based CMR Surgical developed a robot called Versius that can perform minimally invasive surgery with high precision. This demonstrates potential uses in industries requiring extreme accuracy.

Advantages of Robotics in Production

• Increased productivity and efficiency: Robots can work 24/7 without the need for breaks, which can significantly improve production time.
• Improved quality: Robots offer greater precision and consistency than human workers, reducing errors and improving product quality.
• Cost reduction: Though expensive to buy and install, over time robots can lead to substantial cost savings due to reduced labour costs and increased productivity.
• Enhancing safety: Using robots for hazardous tasks reduces the risk of injury to human workers.

Challenges of Robotics in Production

• High initial investment: The cost of purchasing and installing industrial robots can be high, making it prohibitive for smaller businesses.
• Job displacement: The use of robots can lead to human job losses, particularly in low-skilled positions, leading to social and economic issues.
• Technical issues and maintenance: Robots require regular maintenance and can break down, which requires specialist skills to fix.

Examples of Robotics in Production

• Tesla makes extensive use of robots in their automotive assembly lines. The company’s factory in Fremont, California, is one of the most automated in the world.
• Amazon uses robotic systems in their warehouses to pick, pack and ship goods.
• The food industry is increasingly using robots for tasks ranging from picking and sorting to making pizzas. Companies like Moley Robotics have even developed a fully-automated kitchen robot.
• Pharmaceutical companies such as Roche Diagnostics and Eli Lilly have integrated sophisticated robotic systems into their laboratories for drug discovery and more.