Issue 3 | 05.02.2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the terms "automation" and "robotics" are often employed interchangeably, leading to confusion among enthusiasts and professionals alike. This article breaks down the differences between automation and robotics to provide the foundation for further deep dives into these complex topics: 

Automation:

Automation is a process that uses software, machines, or other technology to carry out tasks in place of human workers. The range of automation’s impact in the industrial environment is quite broad: In some cases, automation is used to completely replace manual processes, in others to just minimize human involvement in a system. In both cases, however, the target is to create a more efficient and streamlined operation. Generally, there are two different types of automation: Software Automation and Industrial Automation. 

Software Automation involves processes mainly or exclusively using software. Examples include Robotic Process Automation (RPA) or Intelligent Process Automation (IPA). 

RPA mimics human actions in a software interface. It is used to automate simple manual tasks like data entry and migration, invoice processing or customer onboarding. 

IPA takes it a step further by integrating business process management, analytics, and sometimes artificial intelligence. Practical examples would be the automated execution of fraud control, predictive analytics, healthcare claims processing or invoice approval workflows. 

Industrial Automation on the other hand, moves beyond the realm of software and into the physical world. It encompasses processes automated by physical robots and specialized control systems. The inclusion of robots in industrial automation adds a hands-on, physical element that is not given in software-based automation. 

Robotics:

Robotics can be described as a field, that combines engineering and computer science to design and build robots capable of performing specific tasks. Generally, robots can be categorized into two main types: semi-autonomous and autonomous robots. Semi-autonomous robots collaborate with humans, requiring interaction and assistance for specific tasks. On the other hand, autonomous robots possess the intelligence to perform tasks entirely on their own.

Conclusion:

In summary, industrial automation is a comprehensive term covering the use of various technologies to automate tasks in industries. Within this broader context, robotics serves as a specific subset, focusing on machines capable of physical movement and interaction. So, when we say "Robotics is a sub-category of industrial automation," we're highlighting that robotics is a specialized branch that deals specifically with robots capable of both automation and physical actions, all within the broader landscape of industrial automation