Robots quietly take their place alongside humans on the production line to raise productivity-and do the 'dirty work'

Abstract

Two important features of robots-versatility and the ability to learn are discussed. The suitability of robots in a wide range of industrial processes is illustrated with several examples, emphasising the unique role of robots in improving productivity in machine-tool loading and unloading. Future trends of robots and the impact of robotics on industrialised nations are discussed.