AI collaborates with robotics to redefine operational dynamics in manufacturing
Published on : Friday 22-03-2024
Subrata Karmakar, President, Robotics & Discrete Automation, ABB India.
What key mega trends are shaping the future of robotics, and how do they contribute to creating a smart and sustainable future?
In the current era marked by transformative changes, robotic automation is undergoing significant advancements, experiencing rapid adoption across diverse customer segments. Against the backdrop of prominent global mega trends such as labour shortages, supply chain uncertainties, and the businesses are actively modifying their processes. There is a growing emphasis on individualised consumer demands and a heightened focus on sustainable operations. Automation, viewed as a strategic response to labor challenges and global uncertainties. This resurgence is fueling a re-industrialisation wave empowered by robotics. ABB has played a pivotal role in this journey, contributing to the evolution and innovation that have spanned nearly five decades, as businesses increasingly recognise the role of automation in enhancing safety, productivity, and overall operational resilience.
How is the rise of robotics and automation impacting the density of robots in various industries, and what sectors are experiencing significant growth as a result?
In 2021, India experienced a significant surge in the sale of industrial robots, reaching a record high of 4,945 units installed, indicating a remarkable 54% increase from the previous year's figure of 3,215 units in 2020. This growth propelled India to the tenth position globally in terms of annual installations, as reported by the International Federation of Robotics (IFR). The adoption of robotics and automation has played a crucial role in enhancing workplace safety, efficiency, and productivity. According to the International Trade Administration, there is a notable correlation between robot density and productivity, with a 0.8 percent increase in productivity for every 1% rise in robot density. Industries that were at the early stages of incorporating robots experienced the most substantial productivity gains, contributing to overall industry growth.
The automotive sector emerged as the primary customer for the robotics industry in India in 2021, holding a substantial 31% share. Installations in this sector more than doubled, reaching 1,547 units, reflecting a remarkable 108% increase. Within the general industry, the metal sector led with 308 units (a decrease of 9%), followed by the rubber and plastics industry with 246 units (a 27% increase), and the electrical/electronics industry with 215 units (a notable 98% increase).
In what ways do collaborative robots enhance the future workplace, and how can they work alongside the human workforce to optimise productivity and efficiency?
The incorporation of collaborative robots is expected to bring about substantial transformations in the future workplace. Particularly with digital features like easy programming, that enables them to be readily controlled and handled by those who have no prior expertise or experience with robots. This not only reduces installation expenses but also minimises the overall space requirements, proving particularly beneficial in constrained environments.
The most pronounced growth in this domain is currently observed within general industry and small to medium-sized enterprises. This surge is propelled by the availability of smaller, more cost-effective, and user-friendly robots exemplified by ABB's Cobot family. These robots play a crucial role in automating repetitive, dull, or hazardous tasks, thereby avoiding the necessity for human involvement in such dangerous activities, allowing them to focus on more fulfilling and mindful work.
How is artificial intelligence being practically applied in data analytics to enhance manufacturing processes, and what role does AI play in conjunction with robotics in the manufacturing industry?
AI plays a practical role in advancing manufacturing processes by improving efficiency, reliability, productivity, and, notably, flexibility. In this context, autonomous mobile robots function independently, navigating materials, components, and finished products among intelligent, interconnected workstations. This innovation transforms traditional linear production lines into fully flexible networks. The overarching goal is to establish data-driven companies wherein autonomous systems, leveraging AI, autonomously adjust their behavior in response to production requirements based on the data they gather. This integration of AI in data analytics enhances manufacturing processes, and AI collaborates with robotics to redefine operational dynamics in the manufacturing industry.
How are changing consumer behaviours and the boom in e-commerce influencing manufacturing industries, and what adjustments are needed to meet the evolving demands?
The changing landscape of consumer behaviour, marked by the rise of e-commerce and a growing demand for diverse product options, shorter product life cycles, and personalised items, is prompting our clients to enhance their adaptability. Our advanced robotics solutions go beyond traditional manufacturing, supporting increased productivity and flexibility across rapidly expanding sectors like healthcare, logistics, food and beverage, construction, and retail, including the dynamic e-commerce space. These adaptations underscore the significant impact of evolving consumer preferences and the booming e-commerce industry on manufacturing sectors, particularly within the context of robotics and automation.
As consumer behaviours shift and e-commerce flourishes, manufacturing industries need to adjust to meet the changing demands. This involves enhancing adaptability through advanced robotics solutions that extend support to diverse sectors. The focus should be on increasing productivity and flexibility, aligning with the evolving landscape shaped by consumer preferences and the growth of e-commerce. This not only addresses the sustainability pressures faced by businesses but also reflects a strategic imperative for success in the dynamic manufacturing environment.
Why are upskilling programs crucial for individuals to operate and maintain robots in an automated future, and what skills are particularly essential for success in this evolving landscape?
The changing landscape of work is marked by the increasing integration of automated technologies, necessitating a new generation of tech-savvy employees who can adeptly navigate and collaborate with these technologies. Both current and future workers face the challenge of ensuring that their skillsets complement automated technologies, enabling them to leverage these tools for increased productivity. ABB, leveraging its extensive experience and portfolio of robotic solutions, is actively involved in supporting educational institutions in providing training for robotic and automation skills to prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow. Engaging in various projects worldwide, ABB aims to educate students in schools, colleges, and universities about the transformative impact of robotics across diverse industries, from engineering and manufacturing to architecture and product design. The latest initiative, the ABB Robotics education package, is designed by industry experts to empower students from diverse backgrounds to excel in the fields of robotics and automation.
