Advanced Manufacturing technologies (AMTs) are broad technological bundles which support the design and fabrication of products, a higher level of connectivity, and the optimised planning of resources. Overall, they improve products or processes that drive innovation in manufacturing. It covers two types of technologies: process technologies to produce other advanced technologies or manufactured products, and process technologies based on Robotics, automation technology or computer-integrated manufacturing that support the manufacturing processes. For the former, such process technology typically relates to production apparatus, equipment, and procedures for the manufacture of specific materials, components, or final products. For the latter, process technology includes measuring, control and testing devices for machines, machine tools and various areas of automated or IT-based manufacturing technology.
Robotics is a domain of technology that produces programmable machines. It is a technology that encompasses the design, building, implementation and operation of robots. Robotics is often organised into three categories:
- Application specific. This includes Robotics designed to conduct a specific task or series of tasks for commercial purposes. These robots may be stationary or mobile but are limited in function as defined by the intended application.
- Multipurpose. Multipurpose robots are capable of performing a variety of functions and movements determined by a user that programs the robot for tasks, movement, range and other functions and that may change the effector based on the required task. These robots function autonomously within the parameters of their programming to conduct tasks for commercial applications and may be fixed, ‘moveable’ or mobile.
- Cognitive. Cognitive robots are capable of decision making and reason, which allows them to function within a complex environment. These robots can learn and make decisions to support optimal function and performance and are designed for commercial applications. When measuring production and uptake of Robotics, industrial applications were taken into account.