The pace of technology development continues to accelerate with significant progress over the last decade: virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) provide visualisation capabilities to test solutions as well as train operators prior to implementation, collaborative robots have enabled the application of automation alongside workers rather than in place of people, and digital twins are starting to provide much more intimate control of manufacturing processes and enable true agility.
We are now witnessing the true impact of artificial intelligence (AI) which will drive a fundamental shift in the future manufacturing environment. In particular, the convergence of AI with robotics will provide the opportunity to automate manufacturing to a much greater level than has been previously feasible.
AI is already in use within automation systems, providing greater machine ability to adapt to changing environments or products as well as equipping the machines with the ability to make decisions. Combined with enhanced vision and tactile sensing capabilities, AI provides robots with the ability to accommodate much greater variability in products, which in turn opens up many more applications which have not been previously feasible.
Embodied AI is also being used to make the systems much more simple to program, operate and maintain. This reduces barriers to entry making collaborative robots (cobots) available to all businesses regardless of size and capabilities. This enhanced intelligence also provides the capability to optimise robot programmes increasing performance.
As the shift towards technology adoption continues, we must not forget the workforce. Technology, such as VR/AR, can be used to deliver continuous upskilling programmes, while the development of simpler human machine interfaces makes technology easier for all workers to use.
These advances in technology should not be considered a threat to human labour. They provide an opportunity to increase productivity, to automate the dirty, demanding and dangerous tasks we should no longer be asking people to perform. Instead of being tied to a production line, workers’ skills can be used for tasks that add higher value, require problem solving, and encourage creativity. Much more interesting and rewarding roles can be offered.
In fact, the industry is already suffering from labour shortages and at the same time we have an aging workforce. Younger generations have been brought up with technology and want to use it in their jobs. Manufacturing needs to adapt to this demographic shift by implementing innovative processes and providing the roles that future workforces want to undertake.
Ultimately, though, UK manufacturing needs to proactively seek support to adopt these technologies. It is not possible to stand still. Independent assistance is available via programmes such as Made Smarter and organisations like the High Value Manufacturing Catapult (HVMC).
Here at MTC, we work with businesses of all sizes to identify the best automation opportunities so that operations can be streamlined, quality can be improved, and waste can be reduced. It is also worth visiting exhibitions such as EMO, PPMA and MACH to get an understanding of what machines and technologies are available, and the benefits that they can provide.
This combination of technologies, machines and people, applying each to tasks that makes the best of their capabilities, enables a very exciting future for manufacturing.
The precision and speed of intelligent robots combined with the agility which digital twins can enable will deliver higher quality, lower costs and greater levels of customisation. It will also enable smaller scale, local and competitive operations providing a bright future for manufacturing in the UK.
Professor Mike Wilson, Chief Automation Officer at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC).
