On our fourth day of the trip we had more time to explore Augsburg. We started the day at KUKA, a company that specializes in industrial robots. The day before we were at BMW, where we saw KUKA robots in action, quickly building parts of BMW cars. 

It was interesting, at BMW there were hardly any humans on the factory floor but at KUKA it was like the human workers and the robots were working hand-in-hand with each other. I had never seen anything so futuristic. We learned about the dynamic that KUKA has within the supply chain, especially as a Tier 1 supplier. This company plays a different role as they are providing production infrastructure and automation systems rather than physical parts that would be use in assembling a vehicle. It is quite fascinating visiting a factory like this one. I think this factory tour was my favorite so far! 

When comparing the KUKA site visit to the BMW site visit, I find myself fascinated with the way that humans and robots are able to work together. I know it is common knowledge that this is normal practice in today’s world but something about seeing the process in person opened my eyes as to how much goes into the automotive industry. 

I also found myself thinking about how far the robot industry will go in being involved with production lines similar to the ones in the automotive industry. How much more can we grow in this kind of technology? I guess only time will tell! 

After we went to KUKA, Carly and I got lunch at a bakery called Ihle. I would have to say one of my favorite parts of being in Germany is being able to eat bread and cappuccino at every meal. 

As the day came to a close, my Plus3 group and I spent the night enjoying each other’s company and the views of Augsburg!