The Rise of AI Technology and Human-Machine Collaboration

No matter the industry, we are all aware of the rise of AI Technology around us. The concept is being incorporated behind the scenes of the online world and digitalisation, right through to sectors utilizing the takeover with automation machines and physical robotics. As a whole, the growth of global AI usage is increasing rapidly, with a forecasted market annual growth rate of 28.46% throughout 2024-2030 which will see a market volume of $826.70bn by 2030. Thanks to the rise of AI, these technologies have enabled machines to process vast amounts of data, recognize patterns, and make decisions based on complex algorithms. As a result, AI systems can now perform tasks that were once deemed exclusive to humans.

Specifically, the efficiency of Human-Machine Collaboration is becoming more apparent, and various industries are capitalizing on the new technology and embracing the approach for creating more sufficient strategies of working.

Simply, the concept sees the involvement of robotics and automated technology in collaboration with humans. The method of human field experts working alongside purposely designed advanced technology is being used to prioritise time, reduce repetitive tasks and strengthen overall efficiency within all sorts of sectors. Instead of seeing AI as a replacement for human roles, the collaboration recognizes the complementary strengths between humans and advancing technology.

In terms of the warehouse industry, Human Machine Collaboration is valuable with the aim of taking over the repetitive duties of standard labourers and assisting day-to-day human tasks. The Manufacturing industry has been embracing cobots which work alongside humans to catapult productivity and safety on the factory floor. Automated machinery is ultimately bringing speed and accuracy alongside the value of the human mind and improving productivity, reducing errors, and enabling a safer working environment. For lots of industries, this is allowing humans to focus on more skilled and creative aspects of production and providing greater opportunities for unique roles within warehouses.

COBOT ROBOT TAKEOVER

Unlike industrial robots, cobots are flexible in performing various tasks due to their lightness and adaptability. Moreover, cobots generally offer lower costs compared to traditional industrial robots which are also fixed in their production process.

With an increased labour shortage occurring globally, digitalisation is also demanding digital skills. Unlike traditional robots, cobots can aid this demand as they can be programmed and tailored accordingly, by anyone.

Particularly for smaller companies, facilities can benefit from the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of a cobot in comparison to a larger, fixed machine with structured processes. Instead of hiring multiple employees during peak periods of demand, the flexibility of the machinery means businesses can deploy cobots as an when needed.

It is crucial to note that specifically, collaborative mobile robots are desirable because they have arisen to assist and not take over the functions of humans. With the pandemic disrupting supply chains across the globe, it is important that businesses utilize the latest advancements in technology.

To support this, Matt Malloy has recently highlighted the dramatic growth in the cobot manufacturing space and his latest configuration of the increasing amount of cobot companies demonstrates the sharp growth within the market.

 

Why is the warehouse industry making the most of the new tech?

Within a dynamic landscape of modern warehouses, the integration of automation has shifted process methods. However, the role of humans is crucial in maintaining a balance between accuracy and efficiency. Particularly, automation has significantly transformed warehouse operations with technologies such as robotic systems, conveyor belts and autonomous vehicles providing speed, precision, and accuracy within the facilities. Additionally, advances in warehouse technology are reducing labour costs for businesses and providing greater budget for other improvements.

In such an ever-evolving landscape of data-driven digitalisation and AI technologies, human-machine collaboration technology is harnessing the power of decision-making by encouraging the adoption of creative workers with innovative ideas in the workplace.

Additionally, the collaborative machinery has been especially preferred by smaller warehouses as it tends to be simplistic to integrate into existing infrastructure. Depending on specific warehouse needs, the collaborative technology has also been deemed easy to transport and navigate around the space.

Safety and human error can also be hugely costly within all sorts of warehouse facilities, and collaborative robots can help assist tasks whilst minimizing the likelihood of human error.

Already, the global robotics market is expected to reach $13 billion by 2025, and the space is forecasted to see a growth in cobot sales within the next year too.

What The Future Holds

The future of Human-Machine Collaboration is expected to skyrocket within the upcoming years as AI Technology continues to grow. The market for collaborative technologies is set to experience robust growth, and increasing competition within the collaborative robot’s space, and the adoption from automotive and electronics manufacturers are among the most significant drivers of growth.   Despite a takeover in human jobs currently, the future banks on fresh opportunities surrounding research, creativity, and innovation off the back of newly incorporated technologies.

There is no doubt that the collaboration between humans and AI is transforming industries, and as awareness around the cobot approach increases, it is predicted that more businesses will collaborate to work towards a common goal in the future.