Pandemic – Next-up Cobots?
As the world is still in the throes of Covid-19, social distancing, self-quarantined, forced quarantined and governments mandating more rules. Manufacturers are struggling to find the workers to bring many products to market. The pandemic has interrupted and disrupted the global supply chain with shortages on so many things including PPE, disinfecting wipes and even toilet paper. We know manufacturers are trying to figure out how do we keep everyone safe, keep lines running when employees are ill and run a successful business with these ever-compounding challenges. One way to mitigate risk and resolve the amount of infection for humans and could be to simply add in robotic automation. It will systematically alleviate the demands on the business and resolve some of the labour issues.
Manufacturing has dealt with all types of pressures long before this pandemic however with it’s advent it seems we have to find better ways to deal with everyday working conditions. For example automakers are taking extreme measures and closed plants temporarily just to reopen and face the on-slot of more infections. How can we get around these issues?
Ideally contactless, robotic automation operation could really help in achieving all goals – including business survival. With the help of robots, food processors can automate food and help prevent outbreaks. Automotive plants could ensure that teams are distanced enough in production.
One proven idea is the use of Cobots which are a valuable solution for big and small manufacturers by filling the labor gaps. Working safely alongside humans, cobots are tasked with picking, sorting, or replenishing. Now where workers used to be, cobots are picking up the slack so human workers can maintain social distance. As needs change, cobots can be moved, re-programmed, and re-deployed to multiple applications offering great flexibility to manufacturers. This is a huge advantage for manufacturers who need to pivot quickly, change, and expand into new markets quickly. Adding cobots to current productions will not only help to maintain social distancing guidelines but can give workers the confidence that the work environment is safer. Social distancing directives are likely to continue after the pandemic and robots will help keep operations running. The post-coronavirus era may accelerate the adoption of more flexible collaborative robots to improve efficiency and help businesses stay afloat.