Robotics and Education Join Forces to Tackle Manufacturing Hurdles in 2024

It’s , and let’s face it, the manufacturing world is a tad…stressed. Finding skilled workers feels harder than ever, like trying to find a decent Wi-Fi signal at a rock concert. But fear not, fellow humans! A new hope emerges from the world of automation, where robots are stepping up to lend a much-needed hand (or gripper, as the case may be).

These aren’t your grandma’s clunky factory robots from sci-fi flicks. We’re talking sleek, sophisticated machines designed to handle those mind-numbing, repetitive tasks that make even the most patient human want to scream into the void. This frees up valuable human brainpower for more complex and creative work, the kind that requires that special human touch. Think problem-solving, innovation, and maybe even a little artistic flair.

This shift towards automation couldn’t come at a better time. The demand for American-made goods is experiencing a resurgence, driven by those lingering post-COVID-19 supply chain hiccups and a growing desire to keep things local. But with a shrinking pool of skilled workers, manufacturers are turning to robots to bridge the gap and keep those production lines humming.

A Pennsylvania Company Steps Up to the Plate

Enter Precision Cobotics, a company based in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country (yes, where the shoofly pie roams free). This innovative bunch spun off from their sister company, Precision Form Inc., with a mission to, as their tagline proudly proclaims, “create the things that make stuff.”

“We saw a real need for automation solutions in the manufacturing industry,” says John Bridgen, the company’s president. “Companies were struggling to find workers, and those who were available often lacked the necessary skills. We knew there had to be a better way.”

Teaming Up for Tomorrow’s Workforce

Precision Cobotics isn’t just building robots; they’re building the future workforce. They’ve partnered with nearby Millersville University (MU) to launch the Robotics WorX program, an initiative designed to train the next generation of automation gurus.

Funded in part by Lancaster STEM and the Lancaster County Workforce Development Board, Robotics WorX is all about bridging the gap between the classroom and the factory floor. The program focuses on two key goals:

• Giving MU students hands-on experience with automation and robotics, tackling real-world manufacturing challenges head-on. Think of it as a robotic boot camp, but with less yelling and more problem-solving.
• Getting high schoolers hyped about manufacturing careers. Because honestly, who wouldn’t want to work with cutting-edge robots all day?

Hands-on Learning in the Robotics Solutions Lab

To give students a taste of the real deal, Precision Cobotics set up shop right on MU’s campus, creating the Precision Cobotics Solutions Lab. This state-of-the-art facility serves as a playground for innovation, where six lucky student interns get to play with robots all day (and get college credit for it – talk about a win-win!).

“Our focus in the Solutions Lab is twofold,” explains John Haughery, an assistant professor at MU. “First, we develop proof-of-concept solutions using robots. We want to show companies what’s possible and how automation can transform their operations. Second, we demonstrate the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of these solutions.”

Bridging the Skills Gap, One Robot at a Time

One of the biggest challenges facing manufacturing today is the shrinking pool of skilled workers. As experienced employees retire, there aren’t enough young people to fill their shoes (or steel-toed boots, as the case may be). Robotics WorX aims to change that, one student at a time.

“Automation isn’t just about replacing jobs; it’s about creating new opportunities,” says Haughery. “By training students on the latest robotic technologies, we’re giving them the skills they need to thrive in the manufacturing jobs of tomorrow.”

And it’s not just college kids who are getting in on the action. Robotics WorX has hosted over 400 high school students for tours, job shadowing experiences, and even some hands-on lab time. The goal? To show these teens that manufacturing isn’t some dusty, old-fashioned industry – it’s a dynamic, high-tech field that’s ripe with opportunity (and maybe even a few robots).

Cobots: The Friendly Face of Automation

Now, let’s talk about the stars of the show: the cobots. Short for “collaborative robots,” these mechanical marvels are designed to work side-by-side with humans, like the ultimate high-tech wingman (or wingwoman). Unlike their caged-off, industrial counterparts, cobots are built for safety. They come equipped with sensors that can detect nearby humans, preventing any accidental robot hugs (unless you’re into that sort of thing).

At Precision Cobotics, MU students get their hands dirty (figuratively, of course, because robots are surprisingly clean) adapting Universal Robots, a leading cobot brand, to perform specific tasks. Imagine a robotic arm that can transfer parts between machines with pinpoint accuracy, freeing up human workers from those repetitive, potentially injury-prone movements. Or picture a cobot carefully packaging finished products, ensuring consistent quality and giving human hands a much-needed break.

“Cobots are all about empowering human workers,” says Bridgen. “They handle the repetitive, physically demanding tasks, allowing humans to focus on more complex and rewarding work. It’s a beautiful partnership.”