The Future Of Robots

Robotics have come a long way over the past few decades as developers find new ways to integrate machines into everyday life.

However, this year has seen an increased focus on creating robots that have the capacity to work alongside humans safely and efficiently, something that could change the manufacturing industry dramatically.

Factory Robots

At the moment, the majority of robots are used in manufacturing to complete repetitive tasks without any interference from humans.

Robots have revolutionized the assembly line with many industries replacing humans with machines that can perform the same task faster and more accurately.

However, safety concerns and limited functionality means that robots are only able to perform a small percentage of the work within a factory, often surrounded by gates and walls to protect workers from injury.

A More Agile Robot

But robotics engineers are hoping to change all of that by making machines that are safe to use around humans.

Swiss automation technology firm ABB Ltd (ADR) ABB unveiled its latest offering at a trade fair on Monday— a lightweight robot with dexterity comparable to that of a human.

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The robot, dubbed YuMi, is able to perform delicate tasks like assembling smartphones and computers and would be safe to work alongside humans.

New Uses

With the advent of safer, more agile robots, most are expecting to see a change in the way robots are used.

Sportswear maker adidas AG (ADR) ADDYY has said it is working to develop an automated system that would allow the company to manufacture its offerings in stores.

Such technology would allow clothing retailers to give consumers personalization options and decrease the amount of overstock at the end of a season.