There are a number of roadblocks preventing manufacturers from achieving true Industry 4.0 processes, and at the same time, there are a number of emerging solutions bringing production further into the future.

For those who are new to the world of robotic automation, it’s natural to ask why you should invest in this technology. Most business owners will want to fully understand the goals, the problems solved, the economic reasons, and the benefits of robotic automation before truly considering the investment.

In recent years, the use of collaborative robots (cobots) has offered great efficiencies to the food and beverage industry. These machines reduce the need for humans to perform strenuous, repetitive tasks. Food & Beverage is also using artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance decision-making. The two technologies are being fused to provide an even greater return.

Collaborative robots are improving efficiency in pharmaceutical research, drug production, and quality control. Collaborative robots offer pharmaceutical applications greater reliability, consistency, and precision.

Robotics as a Service (RaaS), which allows manufacturers to leverage the benefits of industrial and collaborative robots in their facility without having to buy them, is becoming popular.