Pandemic Putting Robots to Work
Pandemic Escalating Use of Robots Source: CDC.Gov. Robots Don't Get Sick The coronavirus pandemic is accelerating the global use of robots. The virus is so highly contagious that it is changing consumer preferences for human interaction, for instance with a retail clerk. Dealing with a robot worker, that doesn't cough or sneeze, is a lot safer. Experts say the pandemic is rapidly expanding work opportunities for robots. McKinsey Forecast A forecast by the global consultants McKinsey predicts that 1/3 of US workers will be replaced by robots by 2030. The pandemic is now accelerating that trend. Global Trends Many companies are now expanding their use of robots to foster social distancing and to cut the number of staff who have to physically come to work. For instance, Walmart is using robots to clean and sanitize their floors. In Wuhan, China a smart field hospital for COVID-19