How Robotics Is Tackling The COVID-19 Outbreak

With many businesses in the manufacturing and engineering sector heading back to work in recent weeks, there has been some trouble getting back to normal working practices for some. With social distancing measures a requirement within the workplace, it has been challenging for many in the sector to maintain high production standards.

Businesses who had previously invested in robotics and AI technologies prior to the outbreak have found the transition a much smoother process, and in this article, we will explore some of the reasons why. We will also take a closer look at how robotics are already being used within a number of industries around the world to minimise the risk of infections.

Robotics Leading The Way In Deep Cleaning Practices

One of the main ways that robotics is helping to tackle the COVID-19 outbreak is by assisting in deep cleaning methods in premises throughout the world. In some areas, it is simply too dangerous for humans to go in and deep clean all areas of a premises, and this is where robots come in.

Danish manufacturer, UVD Robots, has seen a huge spike in the number of machines being ordered across Europe and in China. The company specialises in ultraviolet-light-disinfection robots, which are capable of replacing cleaners in many settings. There is obviously worldwide demand for robots with cleaning capabilities, as they are far more likely to maintain more rigorous cleaning regimes than their human counterparts; all of which is required in a pandemic such as this.

Outside of manufacturing, American retail giant, Walmart, are using robots to scrub their floors instead of humans during the coronavirus outbreak. There is plenty of evidence to suggest that many other industries and companies around the world will adopt similar measures in the coming months to reduce the chances of cleaners coming into contact with harmful bacteria on a daily basis.

With robots now capable of leading the way when it comes to deep cleaning practices, employees can rest assured that each day after they finish their shift, a robot will have effectively cleaned up their workspace by the next morning. This will give all employees peace of mind that they are working in as safe an environment as possible, whilst also giving employers confidence they are continuing to abide by social distancing and cleaning best practices during the coronavirus pandemic.

Robotics Helping Businesses Prepare For The Future

With social distancing measures set to stay in place for the foreseeable future, with some experts stating they could roll over well into 2021, robotics is set to play a vital role in manufacturers getting back to normal operational levels in the coming months. AI technologies have long been used within the engineering and manufacturing industries, but now is the time to review existing processes and identify opportunities for machines to take on some of the more menial tasks normally carried out by humans in the workplace.

One of the main way’s robotics can help businesses in the short term is by taking on the role of some employees, to aid with social distancing measures in the workplace. If manufacturers are able to ensure that robots successfully carry out repetitive tasks that were once carried out by employees, they can reduce the need for as many employees in the business at any one time. This is a vital step for employers to take, and could help minimise the risk of transmission of coronavirus within the workplace.

It’s also worth noting that manufacturers who already have robotic technologies integrated within their existing business model will have a kickstart when they get back to work. All tasks that were originally carried out by robots can continue to be carried out right away, meaning that no social distancing measures are required to be put into force. Productivity can pick up exactly where it left off for some components, whilst managers focus their attentions on enabling employees to come back to work in a safe environment.

Here at European Springs & Pressings, we have been fortunate enough to continue working safely throughout the entirety of the pandemic thanks to a combination of forward planning and robotic technologies we have invested in over the years. Our team have adapted well to working under new social distancing guidelines, whilst continuing to provide vital components for a variety of healthcare equipment, such as ventilators.

As one of the country’s leading spring manufacturers with over 70 years’ experience in the industry, we realise just how important it is to continually invest in the very latest technologies to continue expanding our output capabilities on a consistent basis. That’s why we have always taken steps to purchase the very latest manufacturing equipment and robotic innovations that are capable of assisting us with manufacturing processes, which has allowed us to be in the position we are in today.