Remotely Operated Auto Mechanics

High school vocational and industrial arts programs are dwindling as parents instead steer their children towards college and white-collar computer-based futures. Many remaining programs haven’t kept pace with current auto technology, turning out insufficiently trained tradespeople, and the need for qualified auto mechanics is rising fast. With fewer skilled mechanics entering the job world to replace retiring mechanics, the turnaround time for car repairs is growing.

In areas without enough mechanics to go around, the mechanic would be centralized in the manner of remotely operated drone controllers. Qualified mechanics would operate in a room of computer monitors and tech manuals, communicating to a crew of technicians who are actually in the repair bays. Techs would wear protective eyewear incorporating cameras and microphones that transmit the sights and sounds to the mechanic. The mechanic is the “brains” of the pairing, the expertise, reviewing documentation, giving instruction and procedures, the techs are the “hands”, operating the test probes, turning the wrenches, replacing the modules.

In this manner, one mechanic can direct an entire shop, diagnosing and repairing more vehicles in less time than if that mechanic were physically there doing them alone. The semi-skilled techs would get hands-on experience, the customer has a reduced wait time, the shop makes money.