Robotics Autonomous Systems (RAS) in Food Laboratories are the Future of Food Processing Industries: A Review

Abstract

Recent advancements in robotics have witnessed significant progress in both industrial and mobile robotics, paving the way for a new era of automation. However, a paradigm shift is underway in robotics research, focusing on enhancing the interaction between humans and robots, termed as service robotics. This emerging field aims to cater to a wide array of human social needs by bridging the gap between man and machine. Traditionally, laboratory automation has been constrained by the rigid control mechanisms of computer-driven robots. Despite their utility, particularly in liquid handling tasks, many laboratory procedures remain only partially automated. Nonetheless, by breaking down laboratory processes into discrete unit operations and integrating them, overarching analysis schemes can be accomplished. The future of laboratory automation necessitates interdisciplinary skills, requiring scientists to blend biological knowledge with engineering expertise to fully exploit its potential. Simultaneously, a new wave of robotic innovations is permeating various sectors, from robot lawn mowers to autonomous vehicles, alongside smarter robots in manufacturing environments. This progression underscores the increasing reliance on automation, with future research endeavours expected to pivot towards leveraging laboratory automation to tackle novel scientific challenges. This abstract underscore the necessity for future scientists to acquire a comprehensive skill set that integrates both biological knowledge and engineering expertise. It highlights the trend towards greater automation in laboratory environments, representing the merging of scientific and engineering fields to tackle new research challenges.