Since the invention of the first robot in 1954, collaborative robots and other varieties of robotics have become a common feature in manufacturing, assembly, and even consumer use.
That said, it is critical to know how these machines have developed over the years, where they are now, and what to expect in the future. Emerging trends such as using robots in orthopedic surgery have caused a stir, with many people apprehensive of what these machines can do. The argument here is that robots have become intelligent and more utilitarian.
This suggests that because robots are more effective, they may eventually replace the human workforce. That aside, it is clear that robots are now a part of day-to-day life, and they are here to stay. Whether they will take over the world at some point is a story for another day.
So what do we know about robots? Below is an overview of how robotics has grown over the years.
The Evolution of Robots
Most people are unaware that the concept of robotics and automation has been around since 3000BC. The Egyptians built an automated human figurine to automatically strike bells, and Archytas of Tarentum invented a wooden, flying pigeon in 400 BC. These examples show that the idea of robots was coined a long time ago.
The technology used in the 1st century was more in spirit than in form. Robotics have leaped light years since then.
Fast forward to the 1960s when Unimate - the first robot was created. This George Devol creation was designed specifically for industrial applications, and it took almost 20 years for large companies to integrate this design into mass production.
The next robot was a product of the brilliant mind of Charles Rosen. This robot, Shakey, was created in 1958. It had better flexibility and mobility compared to Unimate.
Modern Robotics
Robotic technology is now a force on its own. The evolution of artificial intelligence coupled with advances in IoT technology is only a stone's throw away from complete robot autonomy. Unlike robots in the 20th century - modern robots are not just for industrial use.
Collaborative robots, for example, have become household items purchased for consumer use. Small and medium enterprises use cobots to stack shelves, perform menial tasks, and even receipt inventory. These new robots are programmed to perform tasks faster and with better precision.
Note that robotics and automation are two sides of the same coin. Industries are now automating entire processes in their plants, and it is only a matter of time before companies can automate whole production lines. The unfortunate bit is robots are taking over low-level jobs. The reason for this is that robots are more effective. They work longer hours and require minimal maintenance costs.
Further afield is the evolution of industrial robots. While this variety is reserved for large corporate factories, newer technologies have made it accessible to SMEs. Competition between robotics manufacturers has also knocked down the initial cost of industrial robots, a feature that has made it easier for small companies to invest in automation technology.
Distinction Between Industrial and Collaborative Robots
To have a clear picture of modern robotics, one needs to distinguish between industrial and collaborative robots. Industrial grade robots are a traditional machine breed popular in automotive assembly plants. These robots have been around for more than 70 years and are a common feature for factories that do high-volume production. The main perk attached to industrial robots is their ability to mass-produce in different applications. Modern industrial robots work in welding, assembly, pick and place, product inspection, and a variety of other tasks.
Collaborative robots, on the other hand, are known for their ability to work safely among humans. Cobots are new in the manufacturing scene with only 20 years of experience. The cobot design maximizes human-robot interactions by allowing both parties to co-exist in a small workspace.
Unlike industrial robots, cobots are compact, lightweight, safe, and do not need a lot of floor space. Collaborative robots are also easier to deploy, cheaper, and easy to program. These advantages make them a substantial investment for SMEs.
Robotics: Emerging Trends
According to the International Federation of Robotics, the number of robot purchases has tripled since 2010. This observation means that factories across the globe are rapidly embracing robotics as the next step to operational efficiency. With this in mind, it is critical to observe emerging trends in machine technology to know when to tap into the market.
What trends should you look out for?
- Robots have become Intelligent. The development of humanoid robots that can show emotion, sense stress, and even comfort the sick. Robots can now understand, master, and perform arduous tasks faster and more efficiently. Advances in communication, Internet of Things technology coupled with vision and sensing technology are making robotics a fully autonomous technology.
- Assembly and manufacturing industries are learning to integrate production systems to a central operating location. If successful, a company can monitor and operate multiple factories remotely. You are looking at smart-factories that function without supervision, remote transit systems that are fully automated, and even autonomous cars that do not require drivers.
- Lastly, the restrictions in movement brought about by the pandemic have made it necessary to automate supply chains. Another fundamental issue in the technological pipeline is keeping products and services moving without supervision. This dream is still a long way from realization, but high-wage countries are considering increasing versatility in supply chains.
Final Thoughts
Robots have become part of day-to-day life in many countries. They are safe, easy to use, better functioning, and effective at every level. As technology grows, robots become more accessible to consumers. That said, it is only a matter of time before robots integrate into modern society.
SOURCE: Universal Robots
Source: Story.KISSPR.com
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