Smarter robots set to change automotive assembly lines

‘Thinking’ robots are to be installed at a major car manufacturer in Canada by power and automation systems firm ABB and artificial intelligence software developer Vancouver-based Braintech. 20 robots, the first to be equipped with ‘eyes’ and ‘brains’, have been ordered, and the claim is that they will transform automotive assembly, working faster and more accurately than human workers in complex manual operations. The units work by spotting precise positioning, orientation and movement of auto parts in 3D using one camera each, and adjusting movements and actions accordingly. The development could lead the way to considerable change in automotive assembly. As David Marshall, ABB Industries’ marketing manager, says: “In automotive manufacturing, precision is key to running a smooth and cost effective production line, and all manufacturers are looking at ways to reduce human error… Braintech software can compare a picture image with a ‘perfect scenario in about 500msec.”