Robots to become more human like

Small parts assembly is leading the charge in human-robot collaboration, where humans and machines are starting to work right next to each other, with no need for cages and other protective equipment or barriers. Automation will become simpler and more user-friendly, as modular plug-and-produce components will enable people without extensive experience in robotics to programme and integrate a robot in the process. ABB believe very strongly in a 'what you see is what you get' programming interface, so it is possible that visual apps as well as programming by teaching will greatly enhance the ease of programming for the next generation.

The tools that allow robots to interact with the world around them are also in development, such as advanced sensing and advanced gripping. In order to allow robots to do all the jobs that they are well suited for, they will need to develop more human-like abilities to find, identify and manipulate objects. When combined with powerful processing capability, tools such as force control and advanced 2D and 3D vision systems will create a kind of robotic independence and allow the robot to make decisions about what to do when it encounters the inevitable hiccups that arise in everyday operation. ABB has already developed a new generation of Integrated Force Control and Integrated Vision to help make these advanced technologies available to more and more end-users.

For manufacturers, robots not only bring productivity, but also huge reductions in energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. Automation lines equipped with vision systems can also operate without the need for ambient factory lighting or air-conditioning (subject to the requirements of the manufactured product itself), allowing for the possibility of 24/7 operation with substantial energy savings. Companies with a well-established manufacturing base can also leverage on systems that can collaborate and determine solutions that minimise the cost to the business. In Asia, companies manufacture items ranging from one-off design to large volume production of the same design.

The growing middle class in Southeast Asia and higher levels of education are producing new generations of youth who receive less job satisfaction with dirty, dangerous and dull tasks that are characteristic of some manufacturing processes. This creates a demand for more engaging and meaningful jobs in the market, which could pose a challenge to manufacturers in the region who will need to revamp their organisation of human resources. In fact, some small medium enterprises have started employing robotic automation as a means to retain talent and even attract their next generation to inherit the business.

Faced with an uncertain economic outlook, lower oil prices and increased market volatility, businesses have to rethink ways to add value to their products and services. Cheaper Asian countries have the competitive advantage of high volume and low cost in their production chain; players that will stand out are those who provide customisation and cater to the individual needs of customers. ABB will be showcasing its robotics solutions at MTA2015.