Advances in AI Provide an Opportunity for the USA to Compete Globally

Within 12 months, Agility Robotics plans to build its ‘Digit’ model bipedal autonomous robot. These human-like robots are designed to work alongside human warehouse and logistics employees. The plan is for these robots, which are adult human-size, to work on the assembly lines of Fortune 100 companies.

US Manufacturing Renaissance is Based on Robotics and Automation

The Agility Robotics factory can produce 10,000 Digits a year at its 70,000 sq. ft. RoboFab factory in Salem, Oregon. The advances in 3D printing and artificial intelligence are helping to build the pathway for a US manufacturing renaissance based on robotics and automation.

Two decades ago, the decision to build Digit at scale in the USA might not have been fathomable. Today, however, America is once again seen as a viable option for manufacturing. This is because many economic, technological, and political factors that once gave the edge to the far-flung factories manufacturing goods for American companies are no longer as competitive.

Start-ups are Developing “Enabling Technologies”

This trend is being reinforced by start-ups developing “enabling technologies” to help factories run cost-effectively and efficiently. In effect, supply chains are being recast after the pandemic upheaval as manufacturers realize that their business models may need to change.