Robotics
Article

Challenges and Opportunities in Advanced Robotics

by
Automation Alley
November 25, 2024
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Summary

Automation Alley CEO Tom Kelly, as well as LTU Professors Dr. Roya Salehzadeh and Dr. James Mynderse, collaborated on this foreword kicking off our latest Integr8 playbook on advanced robotics in industry. Learn about three critical components in robotics and automation for the future.

Five years ago, few would have believed we were on the brink of self-programming robots capable of learning assembly without human intervention. Yet today, the rapid advancements in AI place us at that precipice.

Google’s DeepMind exemplifies the potential of AI-driven robotics, with applications that could revolutionize our industry as this technology matures. While still in its infancy, these systems are mastering basic tasks—like fitting square pegs into square holes—entirely on their own, without human guidance in refining their decision-making. They are learning independently. 

But today’s simple tasks raise an intriguing question: What will tomorrow hold? Will we witness robots that can design custom tooling simply by observing a part? Will they adapt in real time to shifting production lines? Only time and innovation will tell. 

What’s clear is that we are in a pivotal era that will shape the future of automation and advanced robotics, fueled by the rapid integration of AI into our daily operations. 

To navigate this landscape, we sought insights from our expert members on several critical issues and trends in robotics and automation: 

Human-Machine Collaboration: How ready is our work culture to embrace collaboration with cobots? What synergies can emerge to address potential challenges? 

Addressing Workforce Shortages: With 65% of manufacturers citing workforce shortages as their primary concern, can automation serve as a stopgap solution? Might it even lead to job creation in the long run? 

Emerging Technologies: What new technologies are shaping the future of robotics and automation? How can we best support their development? 

We are proud to present expert dialogue on these pressing questions, drawing insights from leaders in government, industry, and academia. Together, these sectors can drive meaningful change and illuminate the path forward amidst the challenges posed by emerging technologies. We are living in an exhilarating time for robotics and automation. Let us unite as industry partners to navigate these transformative changes together.

Read the Integr8 Playbook, "Rise of the Machines: Robotics and Automation Reshaping Industries," here.

Automation Alley
Automation Alley

Automation Alley is a nonprofit technology business association and Digital Transformation Insight Center focused on driving the growth and success of businesses in Michigan and beyond through innovation and automation. With a global outlook and a regional focus, we foster a vibrant community of innovators, entrepreneurs, and business leaders through opportunities for collaboration and learning. Our programs and services help businesses develop the skills and expertise needed to effectively jumpstart or accelerate digital transformation. By bringing together industry, academia, and government, we aim to create a dynamic ecosystem that drives innovation and growth across Michigan.

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