5 Latest Advances in Robotics and Automation Technology

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Increase the Use of Chatbots in Business

In the past, people were wary of dealing with automated customer service because they weren't satisfied with the results. But chatbots have improved dramatically because of advancements in AI and machine learning. They are now more adept at processing big data, understanding people's issues, and making decisions or suggestions. As a result, automated customer service has been integrated by many companies because they offer the following:

• Round-the-clock support
• Cost savings with no salaries and lower overhead costs
• Less waiting time for customers
• The scalability of the chatbot system helps real agents gather vital information
• Customers have access to critical information no matter where they are

Today, many consumers prefer to have access to a full-customer service option. Chatbots rely on artificial intelligence and other automation technologies to answer queries and solve problems. For complex issues that need attention, the bots can escalate them to their human counterparts. Chatbots belong to the list of automation trends because they are continuously evolving and expected to improve with time.

The Rise of Collaborative Robots, aka Cobots

For the longest time, people have associated robots with automation. For example, redundant and repetitive activities in car manufacturing facilities have been taken over by robots. These changes have resulted in better productivity and fewer mistakes. And although some robots have led to the loss of jobs in factories, collaborative robots or cobots are slated to provide better opportunities by allowing humans and robots to work together.

In the past, conventional industrial robots and individuals were not allowed to work together primarily because of safety considerations. However, cobots are specifically engineered to work with human beings since they have advanced software and sensors that guarantee safe behavior. Some of the tasks of cobots are fully automated, while others need direction from a natural person.

Cobots are slated to augment human limitations and amplify the reach of people. With these features, cobots and humans are forecasted to reduce downtime, reduce risk, and provide more value to any company. Moreover, improvements in HPC or high-performance computing and 5G technologies are predicted to enhance human-robot collaborations.

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Say Hello to AGVs or Automated Guided Vehicles

After the rise of electric cars plying the highways, AGVs or automated guided vehicles are on the horizon. With sensors like obstacle detection bumpers and software navigation systems, the movement of these self-guided automobiles can be directed and predicted. For example, automated guided carts can now transport heavy materials in warehouses and manufacturing plants just as automated forklifts can quickly move things without humans.

These types of automated robots can help businesses by cutting operational costs. And since they are more efficient, it takes less time to do the work, so productivity is also enhanced. With the rise of AGVs, operators can control speed remotely via software. When fully implemented, it has the potential to reduce workplace accidents and improve safety conditions.

More Reliance on Predictive Maintenance

Technology that helps companies identify problems before they escalate is more prevalent in this day and age. Predictive maintenance allows businesses to avoid complex problems with costly downtimes. This tech is akin to having an artificial eye that never stops looking for workplace issues. It works by:

• Examining past and present data to assess problems before they escalate
• This is applied to devices connected to the internet for accessible evaluations
• It checks for odd patterns like overheating, vibrations, friction, etc.

This technology benefits businesses because predictive maintenance means servicing machines that need it. Instead of performing guesswork with routine maintenance, engineers can rely on accurate data. Robotic and automation tech's most essential benefits are fewer breakdowns, better productivity, and improved bottom line.

The Use of Digital Twins

Finally, digital twins is a tech slated to enhance company operations. This doesn't refer to the trendy use of AI imaging to create filtered selfies. Instead, digital twin technology pertains to creating digital copies of business operations with data updated in real-time. This helps companies test products while predicting potential market performance. Digital twins could also improve supply chains by assisting managers in finding issues with their operations.

Intelligent robotics and automation technologies are getting better and better each day. They help human beings and organizations innovate and improve their processes. People need to keep track of these latest developments. When humans understand how these technologies work, they can apply them in real life to achieve their goals.