by Lauren Todd

Created on: March 24, 2010

A more accurate question to begin with might be: “How is the auto industry not using robots?”

Every facet of production is now automated at nearly ninety percent of auto factories throughout the world. In fact, human labor is basically now a matter of supervising automated machines. Automakers were the first to use robotics and they are still employing robots and automation more than any other facet of industry. Almost all robots used in manufacturing automobiles consist of a single arm that operates by computer, robots can be used this way move objects, place things and weld things together. Robots have extensions used for specific tasks, such as a robot that installs windshields will have a vacuum-powered suction grip to handle smooth glass and a welding robotic arm has an extension that it uses for welding metal.

Robots used in the manufacturing industry have reported to have reduced work related accidents, including repetitive stress injuries and are more precise and consistent than human beings. The overall quality of engineering is raised. Robots do not ask for pay raises, need to take leave, do not need to strive to get along with other facets of automation within the plant. They can work around the clock largely without human oversight. As the industry continues to become more automated, it is reported that their will be less and less need for human labor in the industry. The role of human beings will most likely be to repair, program and maintain the robots themselves.

American automakers were taunted before the age of automation in the industry for producing a poor product. Robots are cheaper for the companies and are much more precise when it comes to welding and engineering than human beings and the quality is higher.Material handling automated arms and front loaders have all replaced human labor. These automated machines can handle as much as 500 pound trucks, in the process of production. It is clear that machines are a part of everyday operations in the auto industry and they are here to stay. It is not inconceivable that soon one day, machines will run the entire operation, from assembly to post production operations, including painting and finish work, with human beings overseeing the operation from a remote location.

The latest aid to auto industry plants is GM’s cutting edge robot the R2 unit. It has multiple vision sensors and pressure sensors in its fingers, enabling it to do dangerous and repetitive tasks with precision. The first of its kind that can use both hands to manipulate materials. The technology just gets more and more advanced.

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