Chancen und Herausforderungen von Advanced Robotics in der Automatisierung von Montageprozessen

Abstract

The present thesis examines the opportunities and challenges associated with the application of advanced robotics in the automation of assembly processes. The analysis is based on the observation that industrial assembly, as a core element of the value chain, is increasingly subject to pressure. Globalization, the rising diversity of product variants, and the growing demand for individualized products necessitate solutions that are both flexible and efficient. Conventional automation approaches are reaching their limitations, thereby shifting the focus towards intelligent robotic systems and advanced robotics technologies. To address this subject, the theoretical foundations of assembly, artificial intelligence, and traditional robotics were first reviewed. On this basis, the study investigates the extent to which modern technologies such as collaborative robots, AI driven assistance systems, and digital twins can generate added value for assembly processes. The findings indicate that while traditional manual and semi-automated assembly are characterized by established practices, they are increasingly constrained by rising costs, susceptibility to error, and limited flexibility. Collaborative robots, also referred to as cobots, offer a potential solution, as their ease of programming and safe human robot collaboration render them particularly suitable for highly variant assembly tasks. Artificial intelligence constitutes another crucial enabler, facilitating the adaptation of rigid robotic systems to changing conditions, the evaluation of process data, and the autonomous implementation of optimizations. Additional solutions within the domain of advanced robotics include digital twins, augmented and virtual-reality assistance systems, and novel intuitive programming approaches, all of which contribute to more efficient simulation of assembly processes, reduced setup times, and enhanced human machine interaction. The results demonstrate that advanced robotics creates significant opportunities, including greater production flexibility, improved ergonomics and safety, a reduction in assembly errors, and the economic viability of small batch manufacturing. Artificial intelligence is of particular importance, as it enables robotic systems to adapt to dynamic conditions and fosters new forms of human machine collaboration. Nevertheless, the study also identifies major challenges, including high investment costs, the complexity of adaptive systems, safety concerns, and issues of social acceptance. In conclusion, the thesis shows that advanced robotics should not be understood merely as a technological enhancement, but rather as a transformative force in industrial assembly. The technology may be regarded as a key enabler of flexible, efficient, and future oriented manufacturing, and is therefore expected to exert a lasting positive influence on industrial production.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	German (Austria)
Supervisor	Franz Obermair (Supervisor)