Manufacturing robots are highly misunderstood by many who have not taken the time to study how they work and their efficiency.
In this article we will explore whether manufacturing robots are a help or a hindrance in the manufacturing industry.
Technology Is Advancing Fast
Technology has, for a long time, been a backbone to the growth and development of many industries.
Since the introduction of Artificial Intelligence, more so in robotics, efficiency in manufacturing has doubled.
Production costs have also reduced greatly.
However, the same advancement in technology has brought up the fear of people losing their jobs.
Now in the food production line jobs as well.
But should we be worried?
The Use Of Manufacturing Robots In The Food Production Industry
Robots and drones use have increased in this decade as compared to previous years.
Some of the A.I. uses in food production include the application of machines in packaging, transportation and product labelling.
Industrial Vision Systems (IVS®) are one of the world’s most trusted sources for machine vision cameras, systems and vision inspection lines & cells.
We develop and manufacture leading-edge systems and machines that enable high-precision machine vision inspection, verification and analysis across a variety of industries including automotive, medical device, pharmaceutical, electronics, packaging, food and drink.
It’s important to highlight that IVS create vision systems that provide “added value” to the manufacturing industry…
- They enable faster, more efficient, machine vision
- IVS help companies protect their reputation with consumers
- Vision Systems minimise production downtime
- They minimise quality concerns, and increase production quality
- IVS systems reduce development risk
Before the existence of a highly technologised environment, most of these jobs were done by human beings.
However, where many manufacturing robots have replaced parts of human skill, there are still several tasks that cannot be replaced.
The Advantages Of Artificial Intelligence In The Food Production Industry
A.I. has increased the level of production in the food industry.
One of the most significant advantages is the use of machines to package products.
Ultimately, handling the entire packaging and delivery process.
This reduces the time spent in this area hence, making it possible for the production and delivery of more products.
Secondly, when the testing process is to be done while using specific rules, the same technology comes in handy.
Processes such as checking barcodes, weights, design and branding can all be done with robotics.
As long as the A.I. is programmed correctly,t his allows no room for complacency and human error.
This makes the reliability on products from such industries to grow, which increases consumer trust, which leads to better sales.
Machines are also not necessarily affected by environmental changes like humans can be.
Unless in the event of a breakdown, they can work continuously since they are not subjected to fatigue.
The Human Touch Versus Manufacturing Robots
As much as machines come in handy where human strength and tolerance is limited, there are many areas where humans cannot be replaced.
Firstly, there are levels of inspection that need a human perspective, such as dealing with customer returns.
For example, you cannot use a programmed robot to understand the complaint of a customer based on product satisfaction.
Secondly, as much as a business thrives on making profits, it retains relevance by maintaining a relationship with its customers.
This is a good argument as to why machines cannot replace service jobs entirely.
Finally, machines can pack and unpack goods, but they still need human beings to control them.
So, Should We Embrace A.I. In The Manufacturing Industry?
There is statistical information that shows high levels of job cuts in different industries as a result of Artificial Intelligence.
However, as much as jobs are being done away with, there are other tasks being introduced.
The advancement of technology will continue to change our lives, but it’s clear that humans can never be entirely replaced.
We know manufacturing robots cannot replace human touch.
But, A.I can be used to enhance production in the food sector as we’ve explored.
Rather than be scared of changes, we should embrace technology, as it’s helping us to create more efficient and safer working environments.
