Humanoid robots can fill the gap between different automations in an industrial plant

The industrial world is highly automated, but millions of people still work there, performing multiple complementary functions with robots.

In industrial areas, automated “islands” are produced to carry out different operations, but then the byproducts must be taken to other locations to continue operations.

This is generally done by people, since they are quickly adaptable to the various situations that arise, and they are capable of doing so without hardly receiving instructions.

And this seems to be a field in which the so-called humanoid robots (mobile manipulation robots (MMRs)) intend to enter, since they walk like humans, and AI helps them more and more every day to see their environment and act accordingly.

Automation “islands” refer to specific areas within an industrial environment where automated tasks are performed. These islands are designed to optimize certain operations, such as component assembly, welding, or product packaging.

However, once automated tasks are completed on one island, byproducts or components often need to be moved to other locations to continue the manufacturing process.

This movement between islands is usually carried out by human workers, who are highly adaptable and can handle various unforeseen situations without the need for detailed instructions.

Humanoid robots, or MMRs, represent a significant evolution in robotics, designed to address these limitations. These robots are equipped with advanced mobility and manipulation capabilities, allowing them to perform a wide range of tasks in industrial environments. Thanks to artificial intelligence (AI), humanoid robots can “see” and understand their environment, make decisions in real time and adapt to unforeseen changes

.

The most relevant characteristics of Humanoid Robots are:

. Humanoid Mobility: MMRs can walk and move similarly to humans, allowing them to navigate environments designed for people without requiring significant modifications to infrastructure.

. Advanced Manipulation: Equipped with articulated hands and arms, these robots can manipulate objects with precision, perform assembly tasks, and transport products between workstations.

. Perception and Sensors: They use advanced sensors and computer vision technology to perceive their surroundings and avoid obstacles, ensuring safe and efficient movement.

. Artificial Intelligence: AI allows robots to learn from their environment, improve their performance through experience, and make autonomous decisions based on real-time data.

On assembly lines, logistics areas, and more, humanoid robots can work alongside humans and other robots to perform tasks that require manual dexterity and fine adjustments. They can handle repetitive and precise tasks, allowing human workers to focus on monitoring and optimizing the assembly process.

You can see a video example at: https://youtu.be/epB3EUtOxA8

In this video the robot is slower than a person, but it works for almost 6 hours with a success rate of almost 95%. Something that will improve in a very short time.

The fact of walking and moving like a normal person gives this type of robots a “plus” of adaptability to carry out the jobs that people do today, so it is very clear that they will become increasingly integrated into everyday life of the companies.

And we will see that in not long.