Ford Using Collaborative Robots To Build Cars, Make Coffee

Ford’s genius co-bots can build cars, make coffee, and even give massages

By Andrew Hard July 14, 2016

In 1913, Ford Motor Company changed the car-making game by installing moving assembly belts in its production facilities. The move made building automobiles quicker, cheaper, and more efficient than before, while also setting the tone for modern manufacturing in general. Since then, the industry has made leaps and bounds by automating much of the process, but Ford isn’t done innovating yet.

At an assembly plant in Cologne, Germany, the American brand is running a trial program where humans and robots work side by side. Called co-bots, these small machines help workers install shock absorbers onto Fiesta subcompact vehicles, but according to Ford, the co-bots can even be programmed to make coffee or give massages. Any takers?

Installing shocks can be a very arduous process, as it requires significant effort and precision to fit the dampers into cramped, dark spaces. The co-bots are exceptionally strong and dexterous though, which not only helps with back rubs, it takes a literal load off the employees’ backs as well.

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Ford co-bots — Image used with permission by copyright holder

ford using collaborative robots to build cars make coffee co bots — Image used with permission by copyright holder

“Working overhead with heavy air-powered tools is a tough job that requires strength, stamina, and accuracy.” said Ngali Bongongo, a production worker at Ford’s Cologne plant. “The robot is a real help.”

Any time robots and humans interact, safety is a huge concern, but Ford has worked hard to put any post-apocalyptic or mechanical uprising connections to bed. The co-bots are equipped with a bevy of high-tech sensors that halt operations immediately if anything blocks their path, and the company behind the machines, KUKA Roboter GmbH, has years of experience in the industry.

“We are proud to show the capabilities of our new generation of sensitive robots that are supporting and collaborating with Ford workers by carrying out ergonomically difficult and technically challenging tasks,” said Klaus Link, a Key Account Manager at KUKA. “As part of our close partnership with Ford and based on the feedback from employees, we are looking forward to further challenges.”

Just what challenges could Link be referring to? Perhaps automotive design work or the preparation of more complex coffee drinks? Only time will tell.

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