Automakers are increasingly turning to robots that assist, rather than replace, human workers. This shift is driven by the need to improve efficiency and precision, while also addressing labour shortages. Robots, known as “cobots” for their collaborative nature, work alongside humans in car factories, performing tasks that are repetitive, strenuous, or require a high degree of accuracy. They are smaller, more flexible, and safer than traditional industrial robots, making them better suited to working in close proximity to humans.
Mercedes-Benz and Ford are among the automakers that have adopted cobots in their production lines. Cobots can be programmed to perform a variety of tasks, from installing car parts to testing dashboard functions. They can also be easily reprogrammed to perform new tasks, giving manufacturers greater flexibility in their production processes.
Despite fears of job losses due to automation, cobots are not seen as a threat to human workers. Instead, they are viewed as a tool that can help workers perform their jobs more efficiently and safely. By taking over repetitive and physically demanding tasks, cobots can free up human workers to focus on tasks that require more skill and judgement.
The use of cobots is expected to grow in the coming years, as manufacturers seek to improve productivity and cope with labour shortages. However, the human touch will remain an essential part of car manufacturing, with workers and robots working together to produce high-quality vehicles.
Go to source article: https://www.csmonitor.com/Technology/2018/0427/Automakers-embrace-robots-that-assist-not-replace-human-workers