In an era marked by a widening gap in skills and talent within the collision industry, one increasingly viable solution that is emerging on the horizon is the integration of automation and robotics, a realm that is advancing at breakneck speed.

Today, these machines are capable of executing a spectrum of tasks, from mundane domestic chores to intricate manufacturing operations, including the manipulation of components, performing medical procedures, back messages, cleaning bathrooms, and even the precise application of butter on toast. Possible today even having full-blown conversations with AI robots as companions for the elderly and people needing assistance. The astonishing pace of this automation revolution is largely attributed to the remarkable progress in machine learning, further accelerated by the synergistic influence of artificial intelligence (AI). These robots can be trained within a matter of hours to perform specific tasks, and, remarkably, through the application of AI, they continuously refine their efficiency in task execution, enhance their capabilities, and even devise ingenious solutions that may elude human conception, thereby simplifying complex tasks

The adoption of robotics is becoming increasingly evident as society acknowledges their integration into the workplace and our lives. With robots becoming faster, smarter, and more affordable, and the wages for skilled technicians on the rise, the economic rationale for adopting such solutions is compelling.

Vehicle Manufacturers (OEMs), including GM, Ford, Tesla, Audi, and Mercedes, have been harnessing robotics, realizing benefits such as increased productivity, cost savings, improved safety measures, and a reduction in quality-related issues. It is projected that nearly 75% of the roles within the collision repair business can be augmented by automation or robotics in the next 3 to 6 years, with some tasks already in development to be semi or fully automated.

Tesla has gone one step further and built their own Tesla-bot as it pushes to double its manufacturing capacity. The Tesla-bot is advancing at such a pace that, in the very near future, it will be capable of performing and learning many basic and repetitive work tasks.\” Watch the Tesla-bot in action and see how they plan to introduce these machines in their labor and skill-based workforce.

The various roles that automation may undertake within the collision repair sector over the next few years include:

Claim Logging: (Now Available) Automation could handle initial claim intake, collecting relevant information from the customer via phone call or a mobile app. AI-powered chatbots could assist customers in providing accurate and thorough information.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Stations: (1 to 3 years) Automated pick-up and drop-off stations can streamline customer interactions. Customers can drop off their vehicles at designated stations and complete arrival procedures through interactive kiosks or digital receptionists. Automated systems can handle paperwork, inspections, and vehicle handovers, reducing wait times and enhancing customer convenience.

Vehicle Pickup and Delivery: (3 to 5 years) In the future, autonomous vehicles or robotic drivers may have the capability to pick up the customer\’s car from their home and deliver it once repairs are completed, offering a convenient and contactless experience.

Robotic Receptionist: (1 to 3 years) Robots equipped with natural language processing and facial recognition capabilities could greet and assist customers at the reception desk. They could provide basic information, guide customers through initial paperwork or digital forms, and answer frequently asked questions, freeing up human staff to focus on more.

Customer Communication: (1 to 3 years) Throughout the process, AI-driven mobile apps and automated notifications could keep policy owners informed about the status of their vehicles. Updates on estimated completion times and milestones in the repair process could be provided in real-time, eliminating the need for customers to chase car ETAs.

Damage Identification, Estimating, and Parts Ordering: (1 to 3 years) Automated drive-through or scanning solutions, equipped with advanced computer vision, could swiftly assess and generate repair estimates based on the vehicle\’s condition. Robots equipped with sensors and cameras could inspect the vehicle for damage, generating a detailed report for repair planning. Automated systems could then order necessary parts from suppliers based on the assessment.

Unmanned Vehicles for Parts and Vehicle Movements: (1 to 3 years) Automated vehicles can be employed to move cars or parts around the repair shop, reducing the need for manual labor in handling. These unmanned vehicles can efficiently transport complete vehicles through the repair process, part components, tools, and equipment within the shop, optimizing workflow.

Panel Repair Process: Push and Pull: (3 to 6 years) Robotics and automation could be employed for specific repair tasks, such as push or pull methods to correct dents. Using original CAD part data and material type of the panel for access points, so the robotic arms understand the depth pressure needed to push or pull out any damage on panels. Human technicians would still oversee and manage more complex or delicate aspects of the process.

Filler Application and Blocking: (3 to 5 years) Robotic arms can perform pre-scans of impact on panels and determine the level of filler needed to apply. The robot can pre-mix the filler and apply it to the panel, then block it into shape using laser guidance and compare it with the digital part for comparison and quality control.

Plastic Repairs & Welding: (3 to 5 years) Robots equipped with specialized tools and precision control mechanisms can perform plastic repairs with a high degree of accuracy. This includes heating, reshaping, pushing, and even plastic welding to restore damaged plastic parts like bumper covers to their original condition. After the repairs are complete, robots can also handle the finishing touches, such as filing and sanding, to achieve a seamless and factory-like finish.

Robotic Panel Sanding and Scuffing: (2 to 4 years) Robotic arms equipped with sanding and scuffing tools can efficiently prepare vehicle panels and primed parts for painting. These robots can precisely follow programmed paths to ensure uniform surface preparation, removing imperfections, and creating an ideal surface for paint adhesion.

Painting and Coating: (2 to 4 years) Advanced robotic paint booths could ensure a flawless and uniform finish, while automation manages the precise application of paint, minimizing human error.

Quality Control: (1 to 3 years) Automation and AI-powered visual inspection systems could be used for rigorous quality control checks, identifying any imperfections or deviations from standards.

Car Washing: (1 to 3 years) Automated or robotic car washing systems could provide thorough cleaning after repairs are completed. Via controlled sensor bays with visual aids, the wash cycle can also target only repair areas to be washed as needed.

These advancements herald a future where the collision repair industry can bridge the talent gap and adeptly address evolving vehicle technology challenges. By integrating robotics and automation, the sector can enhance efficiency, curtail costs, improve repair quality, and satisfy the escalating demand for skilled technicians, ultimately boosting customer satisfaction. The future foresees improved customer experiences and elevated industry standards through the seamless amalgamation of human and machine. While the timelines provided are estimative, reflecting current progress, they may fluctuate due to factors like technological evolution pace, regulatory clearances, market acceptance, availability of investment, market needs, and unexpected external factors.

Swift adoption is conceivable for solutions like AI chatbots and claim logging, which are already operational, yet more sophisticated robotics and autonomous systems might encounter uncertainties and potential delays. Remaining flexible and amenable to modifications is crucial as technology and external circumstances continue to evolve.