• Expertise: Integrating robotics and automation systems can be complex and require significant expertise. Diverse systems may adopt disparate communication protocols or need custom interfaces to work cohesively.
• Compatibility: Robotics and automation systems may not be congruous to each other, requiring additional hardware or software to enable fraught less communication and coordination.
• Flexibility: Manufacturing processes constantly evolve and change, requiring robotics and automation systems to be dynamic and adaptable to new situations. This requires advanced programming and control systems that can be reconfigured to suit changing circumstances and exigencies.
• Cost: Integrating robotics and automation systems can be expensive, requiring significant investment in hardware, software, and expertise. This may be a barrier for developing companies or those with limited resources.

Sougandh explains, “Despite these challenges, the benefits of working in sync between robotics and automation are significant. In the future, companies and industries are bound to witness more efficient, safer, and scalable manufacturing processes.”

Up-skilling
With the rising adoption of robotics and automation, the workforce is experiencing a shift in skill demands. According to Ganesh, the future requires cybernetic engineers and data scientists proficient in handling, developing, and optimizing these systems throughout their lifespan for optimal returns on investment. The workforce of the future should possess a blend of technical and soft skills to adapt to the evolving IoT and transition toward IoRT. In manufacturing, proficiency in programming, data analysis, AI, and ML is crucial for understanding and working with robotics and automation systems. Collaboration with institutions like IITs can help develop “shop floor engineers” into data scientists.

As technologies like robotics and automation assume control over repetitive tasks, there is a growing demand for individuals skilled in machine vision, robotics programming, AI, data analytics, and machine learning. Furthermore, expertise in system integration, maintenance, and troubleshooting will be crucial to ensure the seamless operation of these advanced systems. Soft skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and adaptability will also be highly valued as the workforce collaborates with these technologies. Embracing a culture of continuous learning and upskilling is vital for professionals to thrive in this evolving landscape, where the synergy between human capabilities and technological advancements becomes the foundation of success. Openness to learning, adaptability, effective communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking will be highly sought-after skills in workers to effectively integrate robotics and automation into existing workflows and interdisciplinary teamwork.

While these technologies take over repetitive tasks, there is an increasing need for individuals skilled in machine vision, robotics programming, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and machine learning. Lalit adds, “Additionally, expertise in system integration, maintenance, and troubleshooting will be in high demand to ensure the seamless operation of these advanced systems. Soft skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and adaptability will also be highly valued as the workforce collaborates with these technologies. Embracing a culture of continuous learning and upskilling will be crucial for professionals to thrive in this evolving landscape, where the synergy between human capabilities and technological advancements becomes the cornerstone of success.” Rohit agrees, “With the rise of low code – no code platforms and the right training, businesses can empower their employees to become citizen developers.” “Workers who are open to learning, adaptable, and possess soft skills such as effective communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking will be in high demand. These skills are necessary for effectively integrating robotics and automation into existing workflows and working in interdisciplinary teams,” echoes Sameer.

Future of the IoRT
The future of the IoRT holds immense potential for industries like discreet and process manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation, revolutionizing their operations and outcomes. Lalit is optimistic about IoRT’s future. He says, “In manufacturing, IoRT will lead to fully interconnected smart factories, where autonomous robots enabled with vision technologies and machines work seamlessly together, optimizing efficiency, reducing downtime, and enabling real-time monitoring of production processes. IoRT will drive the development of autonomous vehicles in transportation, enabling safer and more efficient transportation systems with reduced congestion and emissions. Overall, IoRT’s impact will result in increased productivity, cost savings, enhanced safety, and improved quality of life across these industries, marking a transformative era of interconnectedness, automation, and innovation.” Cognex is working on significant advancements and innovations that will shape industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and autonomous systems in the coming years. In manufacturing, machine vision will continue to witness breakthroughs in image recognition and analysis, enabling more accurate and efficient quality control processes with the minimum time taken. These developments will revolutionize industries, driving higher productivity, improved outcomes, and unparalleled levels of automation, delivering safer products and far more value to the customers and society as a whole.

Sougandh adds, “Advancements in robotics and automation will lead to more precise techniques. Improved connectivity and communication among devices will make IoRT systems more reliable and efficient. With the increasing connectivity, there will also be a greater focus on robust cybersecurity measures to protect IoRT systems from cyber threats, particularly in industries like healthcare and transportation.” Collaborative robotics will transform manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation industries by enhancing safety, productivity, and efficiency. The seamless integration of human and robotic capabilities will unlock efficiency without compromising quality.

Ganesh feels that IoRT is going to be everywhere. He concludes, “We are already seeing driverless vehicles on road in few parts of the globe, same cases are observed in manufacturing industries; robots manufacturing using robots in an unmanned environment, progressively, the transformation is observed in all segments of manufacturing as well.”

The future factory is an exciting and transformative landscape where AI, robotics, and automation converge to redefine manufacturing practices. However, to fully realize the potential of this revolution, a strong network infrastructure serves as the vital backbone. It enables seamless collaboration, efficient data exchange, and real-time decision-making. Manufacturers must invest in robust network infrastructures, embracing the transformative power of AI and robotics while ensuring network security and reliability. By doing so, they can unlock the full potential of the future factory, driving innovation, efficiency, and competitiveness in the ever-evolving manufacturing industry.

Courtesy: Manufacturing Today