Are the Robots Coming for Your Job?
Following on from last week’s blog introducing Sewbotics®, we wanted to address the elephant in the room: the public's fear of robotic automation. We’ve all seen the films, and let’s be honest - the media doesn’t do robots any favours. They are often (if not always) portrayed as an inevitable threat to humanity, but that's a perception we're working hard to change!
Our Sewbotics® automated sewing cells aren’t designed to replace humans with robotic automation in manufacturing, but to work with them. When we talk about “cobots” (collaborative robots), we mean exactly that - robot arms working alongside people. Think of them not as a threat, but as the ideal colleague: always willing to take on dull, repetitive tasks and never the one to finish the last of the milk.
First Up, Let’s Run Through Some of the Benefits of Robots in the Workplace:
- Robots don’t get tired, take smoking breaks, or need holidays.
- They can carry out repetitive tasks without fatigue or risk of injury.
- Robots eliminate human error by performing precisely as programmed.
- They can operate 24/7, dramatically increasing productivity.
- Robots maintain consistent quality with every operation.
- They don’t require ongoing training once set up.
- Robots aren’t affected by distractions, moods, or workplace conflicts.
- They can work in hazardous environments without risk.
- Robots can enhance human productivity by handling repetitive or physically demanding tasks.
- Over time, automation reduces labour costs and downtime.
- Robots offer precise data tracking and integration with digital systems for performance monitoring.
- They don’t need supervision—once integrated, they self-manage routine tasks.
- Robots overcome skills shortages in areas where trained workers are hard to find
- After the initial setup costs, robots don’t need to be paid a wage, bonuses, or pension contributions!
Now, Let’s Look at the Reasons Why, Despite Being Awesome, Robots Won't Replace Humans:
- Robots are less dexterous than humans and struggle with handling delicate or flexible materials like fabric.
- Robots lack creativity and problem-solving instincts—humans can adapt, innovate, and improve processes on the fly.
- Applications of robotics are currently limited to specific, repetitive tasks; complex work still requires human skill.
- Humans can multitask and switch between varied tasks far more effectively than robots.
- People can interpret visual, tactile, and contextual cues that machines may miss.
- Human workers bring empathy and interpersonal skills—crucial for collaboration, management, and customer service.
- Training and development allow humans to expand their roles, while robots remain restricted to programmed functions.
- Skilled craftsmanship, particularly in industries like textiles, still relies heavily on human touch and experience.
- Robots require initial investment, setup, and ongoing maintenance.
- Humans can make judgment calls in real time; robots require predefined parameters.
- A human workforce supports local employment and community development.
- In uncertain or changing environments, people adapt better and faster than automated systems.
Conclusion: Humans + Robots = A Stronger Workforce
As you can see, there are compelling reasons to embrace collaborative robots rather than seeing them as a threat. Automation - with or without robots - is one of the most effective ways to boost productivity, improve working conditions, and futureproof businesses.
Interested in exploring how robotics could benefit your company, or learn more about cobots in textile production? Get in touch! We specialise in creating bespoke collaborative robot machine cells tailored to your unique production needs. Our team would love to discuss how we can help you get the ball rolling and drive your business forward.
