Last Updated on April 10, 2023 by Ossian Muscad
Automation is revolutionizing the automotive industry, with robots playing an increasing role in automobile manufacturing. As technology advances, more and more people are asking how automation will affect the workforce. Will it result in job losses? Or can human workers be retrained to work alongside machines? In this article, we’ll explore the role of robots in car manufacturing and look at how automation is changing the automotive industry workforce.
What is Robotics in the Automotive Industry?
Robotics is the science and technology of robot design, manufacture, operation, and application. In automotive manufacturing, robotics refers to machines that can perform certain tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously to assemble components faster and more precisely than any person can. Robotics have been increasingly used in the automotive industry for decades, and as technology improves, their use is becoming more widespread.
As robots become more commonplace in car manufacturing, it has become a key factor in overall production efficiency. Automation can reduce the cost and time needed to build cars, allowing companies to produce more products with fewer resources. This can have a positive impact on the industry overall, as it increases production capacity and makes cars more affordable.
The Benefits of Robotics in Automotive Manufacturing
Robots have become an integral part of the automotive industry, with their use increasing rapidly over the past few decades. They are used to perform various tasks, from welding and painting to assembly and material handling. Robots offer numerous benefits to automotive manufacturers, including increased productivity, improved quality control, cost savings, and safer working conditions.
Increased Productivity
Robots can work quickly and accurately faster than humans, allowing for higher productivity levels. This is especially beneficial when it comes to repetitive tasks that require precision and speed. Additionally, robots can operate 24/7 without breaks or rest, allowing continuous production without interruption.
Improved Quality Control
Robots can produce consistent results with high accuracy and repeatability due to their precise programming. This helps ensure that products meet quality standards every time they are made. Additionally, robots can be programmed to detect defects in parts or materials before they enter the production process, helping reduce waste and costs associated with rework or scrap materials.
Cost Savings
The use of robots can help reduce labor costs as fewer employees are needed to operate them compared to manual processes. Additionally, robots require less maintenance than a traditional machinery and can last longer due to their durability. This helps reduce overhead costs associated with repairs or replacements over time.
Safer Working Conditions
Robots can help create a safer working environment by taking on dangerous tasks such as welding or lifting heavy objects that could otherwise cause injury to human workers. Additionally, robots can be programmed to work in hazardous environments where humans cannot go due to safety concerns, such as extreme temperatures or toxic fumes.
Robots have revolutionized the car manufacturing industry by providing numerous benefits, such as increased productivity, improved quality control, cost savings, and safer working conditions. As technology continues to advance in this field, we will likely see even more applications for robots in car manufacturing in the future.
Impact of Robotics on Automotive Employment
The automotive industry has seen a significant increase in robotics and automation over the past few years. This has had a major impact on employment in the sector, both positively and negatively.
Positive Impacts
- Introducing robotics and automation into the automotive industry has created new job opportunities for skilled technicians who can work with these technologies.
- According to Indeed, 170 Automotive Robot Technician jobs are currently available across the US.
- Additionally, ZipRecruiter reports that there are 4093 AUTOMOTIVE ROBOTICS jobs ($19-$61/hr) from companies with openings that are hiring now.
- Furthermore, LinkedIn states 99 Automotive Robotics Engineering jobs in the United States.
- These new positions require specialized skill sets, which can be acquired through training and education programs.
Negative Impacts
- At the same time, robotics and automation have also reduced the need for certain manual labor positions within the automotive industry.
- This has led to job losses for many previously employed workers in these roles.
- However, it is essential to note that this shift towards robotics and automation is not unique to the automotive industry; it is happening across all sectors as technology advances.
How To Prepare the Workforce for Automation in the Automotive Industry
As the automotive industry continues to integrate automation and robots into car manufacturing processes, it is essential to prepare the workforce for the changes that are taking place. This can be done in several ways, including investing in training programs, redefining company roles, and considering the social impact of automation.
Investing in Training Programs
One of the most important ways to prepare the workforce for automation is to invest in training programs that teach employees the skills to work alongside robots and automation systems. These training programs can be tailored to specific job functions or roles and conducted online or in person. By investing in employee training, companies can ensure their workforce is equipped to work alongside the latest technologies and remain competitive.
Redefining Company Roles
As new technologies are introduced into the automotive industry, traditional job roles and new ones will evolve. Companies need to redefine job roles to align with the new changes and create opportunities for their workforce to grow professionally in these new areas. They can create new positions like automation specialists, robot operators, and maintenance technicians. They can also allow employees to gain different skills and career paths to future-proof their jobs.
Considering the Social Impact of Automation
It is also essential for companies to consider the social impact of automation on their workforce. While automation can improve productivity and reduce costs, it can also lead to job losses and displace workers. Companies can mitigate the impact of automation by providing retraining programs, offering severance packages, and even allowing for flexible retirement schemes. Additionally, the industry should take responsible actions in hiring practices, avoiding replacing every function/job with robots.
Prepare for Robotics Automation in the Automotive Industry Using a Low-code Platform
If you are looking to prepare for robotics automation in the automotive industry, a low-code platform can help your organization speed up the development and deployment of applications. Low-code platforms allow developers to quickly and easily build applications with minimal coding, allowing them to focus on the application’s business logic instead. This can significantly reduce the time and cost of developing applications, allowing you to build more complex solutions faster.
Create Checklists and Other Relevant Documentation Using DATAMYTE
If you want to prepare further for robotics automation in the automotive industry, consider creating checklists and other relevant documentation using DATAMYTE—one of the leading quality management platforms in the market today.
The DataMyte Digital Clipboard is a low-code workflow automation software with a checklist and smart form builder. This tool lets you create comprehensive checklists and forms tailored to meet the needs of your automotive production processes.
To create a checklist or form template using DATAMYTE, follow these steps:
- Log in to the DATAMYTE software and navigate to the ‘Checklist’ module.
- Click “Create Checklist.”
- Add a title to your checklist; select the category where it belongs.
- Start adding items to the checklist by clicking “Add Item.”
- Define the description of each item, what type of answer it requires, and other relevant specifications (e.g., reference documents, acceptance criteria, limits).
- Assign a team member responsible for conducting the inspection using the checklist.
- Add signature fields for any required approvals (e.g., supervisors, quality assurance personnel).
- Save the checklist—you can now access it anyway, and it will be available on any device.
DATAMYTE also lets you conduct layered process audits, a high-frequency evaluation of critical process steps, focusing on areas with the highest failure risk or non-compliance. Conducting LPA with DATAMYTE lets you effectively identify and correct potential defects before they become major quality issues.
With DATAMYTE, you have an all-in-one solution for creating and implementing checklists, forms, and layered process audits—all of which are essential preparations for robotics automation in the automotive industry. Book a demo now to learn what other features DATAMYTE has to offer.
Conclusion
Robotics automation is transforming the automotive industry and creating new career opportunities for workers. Companies must take responsible steps to mitigate the social impact of automation on their workforce and provide training programs that help workers adapt to new roles or pursue career opportunities in other industries.
A low-code platform is one of the best ways to quickly develop applications for robotics automation, and DATAMYTE is the perfect solution for creating relevant checklists and forms. Get started today!
