As technology advances, the world of robotics and automation continues to evolve, transforming industries and reshaping the way we work. From manufacturing to logistics and customer service, automation is revolutionizing various sectors, creating new opportunities and challenges.
Manufacturing: Bridging the Past and Future
In the manufacturing industry, experienced workers are retiring, and knowledge of traditional robots is decreasing. To address this issue, companies, and educational institutions are developing workforce development programs to encourage new skills in automation and robotics. One example is Pete Van Camp, who upgraded a Fanuc industrial robot for his graduate capstone project. His work serves as a bridge between past and present manufacturing engineering, contributing guidelines for future faculty and student engineers to use the equipment in other coursework and projects.
Logistics: Innovating Warehouse Solutions
Ukrainian startup Deus Robotics recently raised $1.5 million in seed funding to expand its line of robotic warehouse solutions and attract new customers in the US and Europe. The company specializes in automating warehouse and logistics operations, with versatile robots capable of sorting and moving shelves. With the global logistics robotics market expected to grow 40 times by 2042, Deus Robotics is well-positioned to capitalize on this booming industry.
Retail: Walmart’s Automation Expansion
Walmart plans to expand sales and grow operating income by automating more tasks, with approximately 65% of stores and 55% of fulfillment center volume to be serviced by automation by the end of 2026. While automation investments can reduce costs and improve efficiency, the tradeoff often involves cutting jobs. However, Walmart’s automation strategy aims to react more quickly to consumer demand, enhance delivery service, and increase pay while reducing physical labor.
Banking: AI Transforming White-Collar Jobs
Artificial intelligence (AI) is set to impact every job, with white-collar positions likely to see the most significant changes in the near term. Large banks are already using AI to improve back-end operations, cybersecurity, and power chatbots for faster customer response. By offering more personalized financial products and advice, increasing the speed of fraud detection, and providing bill reminders, banks are leveraging AI to enhance their services.
Customer Service: The Rise of Service Robots
Service robot technology has surged in recent years, with robots like Hilton’s “Connie” and Softbank’s “Pepper” handling guest experiences in hotels, restaurants, and shops worldwide. As self-service automated kiosks become more prevalent, robots are set to become the future of customer service. To deliver value to customers and support employees, service robots must be carefully integrated, striking a balance between automation and human interaction. Robots with human attributes, particularly those perceived as female, have been found to be more satisfying to customers, aligning with stereotypical expectations for interpersonally-oriented traits.
