Historically, manufacturing automation has meant relatively simple robots, performing basic repetitive tasks on the production line. These robots were based around limited, rules-based algorithms which made them effective and reliable, but only in very specific applications.
Recent years have seen some significant leaps forward in automation technology. The introduction of more advanced sensors has made manufacturing robots more sensitive and given them access to a continuous stream of accurate, detailed data.
As a result, robots have begun to take on more complex tasks – including those that involve working safely alongside humans as “cobots”. This could be revolutionary: a recent BCG study suggests that more complex automation could reduce costs by up to 25%.