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AUTOMATION & ROBOTICS
reducing the complexity involved in robot programming. ABB’s Wizard easy programming tool for its cobots and small industrial robots, for example, features simple drag and drop command blocks that enable even novice users to quickly create complete operating programs. For instances where more complex
programming is required, training is also readily available that can help equip operators with the skills needed to expertly operate robots. Another key element in equipping people with the skills needed to take full advantage of the possibilities offered by robots is to make them part of the grassroots education process. Although some 80 per cent of education professionals believe robotics and automation will shape the future of employment in the next ten years, only one in four education institutions currently use robots as part of their teaching programs. Robot developers and vendors are trying to rise
to this challenge. Many are supporting educational establishments by helping them develop new courses to train the robot technicians of tomorrow, while some are developing complete education packages featuring robots, lesson plans and recognised technical qualifications. Robotic automation is increasingly becoming the
answer to the skills gap. Offering the ability to handle an expanding range of tasks, from complex and customised manufacturing through to picking and packing, their utility is being widely recognised by businesses looking for new ways to augment the performance of their existing workforces. Many are taking note of their advantages and putting in place the automated foundations of their future manufacturing processes.
ABB
www.abb.com
working experience for staff, the robot handles up to 1,200 containers every hour in a two-shift operation from Monday to Friday. As well as boosting throughput, the robot has helped to improve working conditions for staff who no longer have to apply the labels, which was previously a monotonous and tricky process for people to perform. Another example is Vietnamese fine foods
company Dan D Pak, which uses a GoFa cobot to place bagged nuts in cartons around the clock to meet increasing demand for its products from international customers. One of the main benefits of introducing the cobots has been the ability for the company to move to 24/7 production without risking overworking the company’s staff. The use of the robots also allowed staff to be trained to be multi-skilled and work anywhere in the plant on multiple tasks, including operating the robot itself.
BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS It is perhaps ironic that while robots present a proven solution to labour shortages, their uptake has been hindered by a lack of people within manufacturing companies qualified to program, operate, and support them. For this reason, robot manufacturers, including ABB, have devoted extensive time and effort to
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