What's Happening?
General Dynamics Electric Boat is employing collaborative robots, or 'cobots', to streamline the construction of Navy submarines. These programmable devices assist in cutting and welding steel, significantly reducing labor hours and enhancing safety. The implementation of cobots has led to a reduction in the outfitting process time for Columbia-class submarines from 180 days to 65 days.
Why It's Important?
The use of cobots represents a significant advancement in manufacturing technology, potentially transforming the shipbuilding industry. By reducing costs and improving efficiency, Electric Boat can better meet the Navy's demand for submarines, addressing delays and budget overruns. This innovation may influence future naval procurement strategies and workforce training programs.
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What's Next?
Electric Boat plans to continue integrating cobots into its production processes, potentially expanding their use to other stages of submarine construction. The company is also focused on hiring additional workers to support increased production demands.
Beyond the Headlines
The integration of cobots raises questions about the future of automation in manufacturing and its impact on the workforce. While cobots enhance efficiency, they also necessitate new skills and training for workers, potentially reshaping job roles in the industry.
