There’s lot of talk – concern even – that robots will take control, steal our jobs and render humans virtually obsolete in the workplace.
Yes, there are emerging technologies that automate many of the physical, intellectual and customer service tasks traditionally done by people – but the reality is that we are safe.
Automation will have a major impact on the way jobs are done but humans will find themselves working alongside robots to accomplish tasks in a different way.
Machines are very good at doing repetitive and programmable tasks quickly and efficiently and despite claims that artificial intelligence (AI) makes robots into humans, robots aren’t actually very good at the very things that make humans, well human. Not yet anyway.
Our ability to solve complex problems, our creative instincts, our ingenuity, our “sixth sense” are all important assets and smart innovators are directing the development of their new technologies so that their machines complement humans, rather than replace them.
One company that has an integrated approach to the design of new products is Inuktun, whose mission is to create technology and products that don’t replace people, but which enable access to areas that are too dangerous or remote for direct human intervention.
Giving wisdom to machines
They want to enable people to perform tasks that they could not otherwise do, in places they could not otherwise go - and the growing popularity of their Multi-Mission Modular (IM3™) inspection systems for hazardous areas, confined spaces, volatile atmospheres, heights and underwater applications throughout the world suggests that they’re achieving their mission.
The Japanese have a saying: “give wisdom to the machines” and Inuktun’s remote robotic crawler and inspection camera systems do this - and more.
Firstly, they minimise human risk.
Secondly, these machines collect data which is used to make critical assessments and decisions on the structural safety of infrastructure. These decisions are made by inspectors and asset owners using the repeatable, meaningful, accurate and actionable data collected by the robots.
Giving wisdom to machine operators
Thirdly – and this is where Inuktun’s technology goes beyond the concept of giving wisdom to the machines – the IM3 technology “gives wisdom to the operators” empowering them to adapt and transform their systems without using an intermediary to suit their unique applications.
Here’s how it works.
The modular nature of Inuktun’s robotic cameras and crawlers means they can be adjusted and modelled to perform an infinite range of customer-focused applications.
The collaboration between humans and machines means that the job can be done better than before, with far greater benefits to the company, the community, the environment and the world at large than would ever be possible by either human or machine operating independently.
If you’re interested to see how Inuktun’s IM3 robotic solutions can complement (but not replace) your remote visual inspection (RVI) and non-destructive testing (NDT) requirements, the industry experts at Nexxis are happy to oblige.
Nexxis is a leading Australian supplier of technical equipment, including the IM3 robotic crawlers and camera systems and their innovative approach to solving complex NDT and RVI challenges has seen them become the preferred resource for a wide range of industries.
Contact Nexxis on 08 9418 4952 or visit nexxis.com.au to view their extensive range of quality NDT and RVI equipment for hire or purchase.
