Did you know that robots have been around since 3000 B.C? A product of Egyptian history, robotics technology traces its beginnings to a wooden pigeon that could fly. Technology has come a long way since then, with the first element of modern machining invented in the 1950s. Technology expanded rapidly after this. These robots developed industrial applications as early as 1958.
Robots have become synonymous with manufacturing and assembly lines in the modern age. This technology has mushroomed into machine learning and the evolution of digital automation. Production has significantly improved in the last decade, with new technologies such as collaborative robots causing waves in the manufacturing industry.
The prevailing concern is whether robots will replace an aging workforce. In principle, robots help improve precision and output. They reduce the margin of error and make it possible for manufacturers to increase operational capacity. Modern robots are faster, more accurate, and more reliable. They perform several low-level jobs without tiring.
Robotics has many applications. They can be used in large factories for pick-and-place functions, and they can be used by orthopedic surgeons to perform intricate surgery. According to the EES Corporation, robot integration has increased by up to 12% in the past two years. To understand just how vast digital automation is in 2022-here are some critical facts.
Table of Contents
What You Need to Know: Key Statistics
Almost 90% of global industries plan to include robotics in their manufacturing process by 2025. According to projections from the International Federation of Robotics, this figure translates to about 1287 robots for every 1000 workers. The fundamental function of robot integration is to streamline manufacturing and maintain product quality. Industries that have adopted digital automation have shown a 79% increase in output.
In 2021, over three million industrial robots were shipped across the globe. These robots have applications in assembling and manufacturing. Some of these units were used in assisted living facilities to help schedule and simplify operations. In medical practice, precision robots have applications in intricate surgery. These robots have become a constant feature in many companies and are now getting applications in consumer circles. Retail shops and small businesses are using robots to help shelving and packaging.
This industry is expanding rapidly. Currently, over 150,000 skilled individuals are employed directly in various disciplines. The most notable applications in 2022 include photonics, electrical, and semiconductor units. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, robotics is a multi-billion dollar industry and one of the largest employers in the world.
Robots have military applications as well. Projections for military robots are at $16.5 billion in the next three years. Modern robots have penetrated many markets. Agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing are some of the industries where robots give companies a competitive edge.
The industrial expansion in the robotics industry has mushroomed in the last few years. This sector has shown annual growth of up to 70%. Robotic implementation in various industries has also shown steady growth. The automotive industry has grown steadily at a rate of 40%. Food and consumer goods have increased by 56%. This is only the tip of the iceberg. As manufacturers streamline production in this industry, the estimation is that robots will become more compact, cost-effective, and have multiple applications.
Robots in Manufacturing
Industrial manufacturing has become more efficient due to digital automation. Robots are now able to perform repetitive tasks 24 hours a day. Companies facilitate an environment where robots mass-produce products faster and with better precision. While full automation has not been realized, robots have made large-scale manufacturing cheaper and more reliable.
The current focus is on advancing Artificial Intelligence to a level where robots can work with autonomy and effectively run entire production lines. Imagine an age where robots can integrate with different factories and produce quality goods without express instruction? This process requires an intricate network of digital geometry programming and sensor data technology.
Perks of Robots in Manufacturing
Robots operate 24 hours a day. They do not need time off nor suffer exhaustion. This equipment gives companies a degree of efficiency that is difficult for humans to replicate. Not that robots will replace the human workforce. Robots are still far from developing the intelligence required for full automation.
Unlike traditional robots, modern varieties can be programmed to perform several tasks on the same factory floor. They have a higher payload and are less vulnerable to damage. These robots also have applications in quality assurance. They can monitor other factory equipment and evaluate efficiency.
The robotics industry has come a long way. New collaborative robots perform complex tasks and are flexible and easy to program. They fit in most industrial practices and operate faster. The automotive industry has benefited tremendously from this technology, with output increase by up to 80%. This has led to large companies in Germany and the U.S. maintaining a significant competitive edge.
While the initial cost of investing in robotics is high, this technology is cost-effective. Collaborative robots have a purchase cost of between $50000 and $100000. This cost is steep for many small and medium business owners-however, the return on investment is high. Robots that work faster are durable and rarely break down. This ROI translates to higher operational capacity, more output, and better efficiency. Although they are capital-intensive, they give you better service and increase production.
Robots are safe, environmentally friendly and allow domestic companies to compete with industry giants. Improvement in manufacturing protocols facilitates an improvement in product quality and maximizes efficiency. Robots are also ideal for mass production as well as low-level manufacturing. They create an environment where humans and machines can work together to improve the industry.
Lastly, robots help take away menial, redundant tasks from skillful workers. They create an environment where the human labor force can concentrate on critical jobs and use their skills. Robots can access hazardous areas that are a health risk to humans. Toxic waste dumps, radioactive environments, or hostile war zones are areas where robots substitute humans.
Bottom Line
Manufacturers are encouraged to integrate robotics into their production lines. This technology improves and streamlines production.
