Industrial Robot Acceptance: Effects of Workforce Demographics and Establishing a Culture of Acceptance within Manufacturing Industry

Industrial applications have not been extensively researched regarding human-robot interaction. This project investigated industrial robot acceptance in the context of one manufacturing site. Acceptance was examined in relation to the workforce and conditions of acceptance through mixed methodology. Quantitative (surveys) and qualitative (interviews) data was used to measure and analyze the existing state of technology acceptance and site culture. Based on this exploratory study, it was found the manufacturing facility has a weak culture but will be generally accepting of industrial robots if the technology is easy to use and useful. The identified boundary conditions to acceptance include training, job satisfaction and the opportunity to work in teams. It is hypothesized there is hesitation towards acceptance for age groups > 42 years and with less technology experience or exposure.