5 Most Common Misconceptions about Industrial Robots
Industrial robots have received less-than-stellar press due to misconceptions about their purpose and place in the workforce. NRTC Automation disproves these misconceptions to show how industrial robots benefit humans in more than one way.
Myths and misconceptions about industrial robots have given them a bad reputation outside of automated factories.
A common belief about robots is that they take jobs and leave humans without work. NRTC Automation has set out to disprove these beliefs by offering a different perspective on how robots actually improve our lives (and create more jobs!).
Learn more about the five most common misconceptions about industrial robots below.
5 Most Common Misconceptions about Industrial Robots
1. Robots are taking over the world.
Yes, we had to start with this one.
Robots are not taking over the world. A common misconception about industrial robots is that they will be smarter than humans and take the reins to world domination.
Despite massive leaps in artificial intelligence, it’s important to understand that computing data at high speeds and creating algorithms is entirely different from the human brain’s ability to make connections, find hidden meanings, and adapt to new situations.
Humans have the unique advantage of solving problems with creativity as opposed to simple predictions based on past data. Because of this, robots will have a hard time getting the one-up on us.
2. Robots are taking all our jobs.
This is another common misconception that has stewed suspicion and outright hostility toward industrial robots. It also goes hand-in-hand with the first point.
Robots are not creative or empathetic. While they may be able to carry on a conversation with complex programming, the underlying warmth and understanding are missing. They also cannot act as leaders or manage people, nor can they effectively teach in classrooms.
Many jobs require distinctly human traits. While some jobs may be handed over to robots, it’s usually for the best. These jobs are typically dangerous for humans, and allowing robots to take these jobs creates new jobs such as robot technicians.
Additionally, it is anticipated that 2.4 million jobs in manufacturing will be left unfilled between 2018 and 2028 because of the skill gap. Since there are no qualified people to take those jobs, robots fill the gap.
Rather than loathing robots for taking these jobs, consider how they take up the jobs that are dirty, dangerous, and monotonous so that humans can have safer, more creative, and more fulfilling jobs.
3. Industrial robots are expensive.
Small- to mid-sized manufacturers may fret that automation is beyond their budget. However, the return on investment (ROI) is well worth the cost. The financial benefits of adding industrial robots to your production line include:
Improved efficiency
Increased production capacity
Safer working conditions that help prevent costly injuries
Improved product quality
Plus, you can automate your business with quality-assured refurbished equipment at a fraction of the cost of new equipment. With the assistance of financing, automation is no longer a pipedream but a financially-sound reality.
NRTC Automation can build custom work cells for your company’s production needs with refurbished equipment. We also offer financing so you can automate on a budget. Visit our Automation Services page to learn more.
4. Robots mostly build cars.
It’s true that the automotive industry has been using industrial robots in their assembly lines for more than 50 years. However, increasing the accessibility and flexibility of robotic applications have made robots useful in many industries today.
For example, robots are disinfecting public areas in response to COVID-19, performing operations alongside surgeons in hospitals, and act as spies to observe animals and insects in the natural world.
This is especially true in manufacturing. Industrial robots can weld, handle materials, process meats and other foods, paint, assemble, sand, and much more. There is a place for robots in any manufacturing facility. With the right end-of-arm tooling and programming, the possibilities go beyond car assembly.
5. Robots are time-consuming.
While robots may appear complicated, industrial robot manufacturers like KUKA, ABB, and FANUC are working to make their products easier to program and operate. A teach pendant or offline PC program allows operators to program robots with ease.
If you are hesitant to program your robots on your own, you can simply outsource that task to robotic technicians. NRTC Automation offers robotic programming assistance through our Robotic Engineering Services for fast and easy integration.
Don’t be afraid of automation.
Misconceptions about industrial robots create strong feelings about their place in factories. As we’ve shown above, these misconceptions are based on myth.
The facts show that industrial robots are here to stay, and humans have much to gain if we continue to innovate and expand our use of robots.
Don’t let these common misconceptions keep you from automating your facility. Automate with a robotic work cell and improve your production line today.
AUTOMATE WITH NRTC AUTOMATION
NRTC Automation is dedicated to providing high-value industrial automation and manufacturing equipment solutions to all its customers.
From decommissioning and tear out to industrial robotic training services to custom flexible work cells, NRTC is the key to integrate your workplace. With personalized training and custom-built designs, NRTC Automation is the destination for all your industrial automation and manufacturing equipment services.
Schedule a free consultation with NRTC Automation today to learn more about how we can help you grow your business.
