The role of robots is not to replace humans, but to provide technology while collaborating.

Mouser Electronics has released the second episode of "Generation Robot," a new series of Mouser's award-winning "Empowering Innovation Together," featuring renowned engineer Grant Imahara.

In this episode, Imahara visits KUKA’s Development and Technology Center in Augsburg, Germany, where engineers design robots that work in everything from production plants to hospital examination rooms. Imahara examines the significance of human-robot collaboration and the benefits humans can reap from such interactions. This series is also sponsored by Mouser’s key suppliers: Analog Devices, Intel®, Microchip Technology, and Molex.

As robots evolve into key production agents and begin working alongside humans in all types of industries, it is highly likely that concerns and misunderstandings surrounding these machines will increase. In response, Imahara addresses various philosophical topics, such as the benefits robots will provide by collaborating with humans rather than replacing them, and whether jobs will eventually disappear. It also explores technical concepts such as the functional differences between collaborative robots and conventional industrial robots, AI (artificial intelligence), and machine learning for future collaborative robots.

Glenn Smith, President and CEO of Mouser Electronics, said, “It seems clear that robots will play an important role in our future. However, it is not clear how humans and robots will cooperate and coexist,” adding, “Through this Generation Robot Series, Mouser and Imahara will analyze the thoughts of engineers to find answers to these questions.”

Imahara added, “This series will serve as an opportunity to move beyond the basic question of ‘Can we build better robots?’ and ask the question, ‘Should we build better robots?’ And if we do so, how will the role of humans change?”

First launched in 2015, the Empowering Innovation Together series is the most visible and well-known program in the electronic components industry, conducting various projects such as the real-world implementation of superhero technology and the benefits of technology for making smarter cities. In 2018, Mouser aimed to meet more innovators around the world and take an in-depth look at how robots impact humanity through the Empowering Innovation Together series.