Beyond Robots: Exploring Automation Across Manufacturing and Beyond

When you hear the word “automation” you might immediately think of robots performing repetitive assembly line tasks. In reality, automation extends far beyond the realm of robotics, with automated technologies and methodologies increasingly adopted across an array of industries.

From manufacturing to healthcare, finance to agriculture, automation revolutionises workflows, enhances efficiency, and unlocks new possibilities. In this blog we’ll explore the multifaceted nature of automation, looking at the varied technological applications.

Manufacturing: Beyond Robotic Arms

Although robots have long been synonymous with automation in manufacturing, the scope of automation extends far beyond robotic arms. Businesses are increasingly realising the value of technologies such as data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) in the optimisation of production processes, improvement of quality control, and stimulation of innovation.

As an example, the January/February 2024 edition of Machinery Update highlighted the launch of a “game-changing” AI product developed by Rockwell Automation (page 13). The new Asset Risk Predictor uses AI sensor data, machine recipe, and operational environments for the prediction of asset health. It allows users to identify and address any instances of equipment failure for the reduction of maintenance costs and downtime.

Manufacturing has been further transformed through the development of additive manufacturing, or 3D printing. Such technologies allow for rapid prototyping, on-demand production, and more intricate design options. For instance, Havatec recently used HP’s Jet Fusion 3D Printing system to build their Wave machine for the reliable, rapid, and consistent sorting of flowers. This has allowed for the production of 1,900 stems per hour, with the support of just three employees.

It is also becoming increasingly common to find collaborative robots (cobots) working alongside human operators, with positive impacts on factory floor productivity, safety, and flexibility. For instance, ABB has launched the SWIFTI CRB 1300 industrial collaborative robot. Offering increased speed, accuracy, and weight capacity, this cobot can support across a range of applications including machine tending, palletising, and screwdriving.

Supply Chain and Logistics

Automation is also making a revolutionary difference to supply chain and logistics management through the streamlining of processes, optimisation of inventory management, and improved use of resources. Technologies such as blockchain, robotic process automation (RPA), and predictive analytics are making for enhanced visibility, transparency, and efficiency throughout the supply chain. The integration of automated technologies is also enabling real-time goods tracking, predictive maintenance of vehicles/equipment, and automation of warehousing and distribution processes.

This is a key issue, with Automate UK’s recently published Industry Insights Survey revealing that 73% of end users considered supply chain issues to have had the biggest impact on operations from 2023 to 2024. Manufacturers have reported particular issues in the sourcing of vital components, with the costs of parts and freight continuing to rise. However, AI and other predictive technologies are allowing for the improvement of supply chain decisions, with inventory and logistics management being optimised for higher levels of customer satisfaction.

Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals

From the performance of basic admin tasks such as appointment setting to clinical applications such as robotic surgery, automated technologies are being used for a widening range of purposes across the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. AI-driven diagnostic tools are being used for the analysis of medical images and patient data, allowing healthcare professionals to make diagnoses and treatment decisions with greater confidence.

Current applications of automated technologies within the pharmaceutical sector include:

• Drug discovery
• Streamlining of manufacturing processes
• Ensuring regulatory compliance through the automation of documentation and reporting

The November/December 2023 edition of Machinery Update highlighted various examples of automated technology adoption across these sectors. It focused on innovations being made by Automate UK members, such as the joint development of turnkey machinery for the rapid insertion of stick packs into cartons by Mespack and Farmatec (page 46). It also highlighted Olympus Technology’s development of a custom automated solution, which would speed up production and allow staff members more freedom to apply their high-level knowledge and skills (page 48).

Finance and Banking

Moving on to the worlds of finance and banking, we see automation encompassing such areas as customer service, fraud detection, risk management, and regulatory compliance. The programming of chatbots and digital assistants allows for the on-point and immediate delivery of responses to online customer enquiries. Automated data analyses and organisation enables greater control over accounts and more confidence in financial decisions. Advanced AI algorithms can also be integrated for the improved identification of patterns, mitigation of risks, and enhancement of fraud prevention and compliance.

Banks are realising these benefits in the adoption of automated technologies:

• Delivery of more personalised customer experiences for better engagement and loyalty
• More rapid processing of banking and commercial activities (such as loan approvals and fund transfers)
• Generation of customer insights that can be used for growth
• Minimisation of employment costs through the development of internet banking

Envisioning The Future

To round up, automation is fast emerging as a universal force that goes far beyond the realms of robotics in the reshaping of industries and revolutionising of workflows. With applications being found across a widening range of sectors, automation is increasingly recognised as a key driver of efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness.

Embracing automation in its various forms, organisations can optimise processes, discover data-driven insights, and deliver better value to their stakeholders. In recognising the depth and breadth of automation, businesses can unlock new growth opportunities and achieve successful transformation. Automate UK will continue to offer a range of support for the realisation of these positive aims.