Keynote Address - Revisiting the Robot Employment Paradigm

Does an increased use of robots have to mean a reduction in employment? What is the practical experience of co-working with robots? What up skilling is needed in order to address the future envisaged where use of robotics is ubiquitous? These topics are addressed head-on in the accompanying paper and presentation exploring alternative scenarios that can be achieved by deliberate decisions through design and implementation of products, services, systems and experiences. A case-study is presented where an advanced robot vision and control scheme and conventional machine elements have been integrated in order to implement a robotic system capable of accessing underfloor voids and applying thermal insulation to suspended flooring. This case study challenges some of the common preconceptions in robotics, with each robot deployed resulting in additional employment through co-working, as well as significant carbon savings of 18 tonnes CO2e over a 42 year nominal lifespan for each home treated with thermal insulation.