The latest report from the International Federation of Robotics (IFR) shows that the global stock of operational robots has reached a new record of approximately 3.9 million units. This growth is driven by a range of exciting technological innovations.
1 – Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
The use of artificial intelligence in robotics and automation continues to grow. The emergence of generative AI has unlocked new solutions. This subset of AI specializes in creating new content based on training data and has gained popularity through tools like ChatGPT. Robot manufacturers are developing generative AI-powered interfaces that allow users to program robots more intuitively using natural language instead of code. Workers will no longer need specialized programming skills to select and adjust robot actions.
Another example is predictive AI, which analyzes robot performance data to determine the future state of equipment. Predictive maintenance can save manufacturers significant costs associated with machine downtime. In the automotive components industry, unplanned downtime is estimated to cost $1.3 million per hour, according to a report from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation. This highlights the enormous cost-saving potential of predictive maintenance. Machine learning algorithms can also analyze data from multiple robots performing the same process to optimize performance. Generally, the more data a machine learning algorithm has, the better it performs.
2 – Collaborative Robots Expand into New Applications
Human-robot collaboration remains a major trend in robotics. Rapid advancements in sensors, vision technology, and smart grippers enable robots to respond to environmental changes in real time, allowing them to work safely alongside human workers.
Collaborative robot applications provide a new tool for human workers, alleviating physical strain and offering support. They can assist with tasks that involve heavy lifting, repetitive motions, or working in hazardous environments.
The range of collaborative applications offered by robot manufacturers continues to expand.
A recent market development is the increasing use of collaborative robots in welding applications, driven by a shortage of skilled welders. This trend demonstrates that automation does not necessarily lead to labor shortages but can instead help address them. As a result, collaborative robots will complement rather than replace investments in traditional industrial robots, which operate at much higher speeds and remain essential for boosting productivity in low-margin product industries.
New competitors are also entering the market, with a particular focus on collaborative robots. Mobile manipulators, which combine collaborative robot arms with autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), are enabling new use cases that could significantly expand the demand for collaborative robots.
3 – Mobile Manipulators
Mobile manipulators, often referred to as "MoMas," are automating material handling tasks in industries such as automotive, logistics, and aerospace. They combine the mobility of robotic platforms with the dexterity of robotic arms, allowing them to navigate complex environments and manipulate objects—a critical capability for manufacturing applications. Equipped with sensors and cameras, these robots can also perform inspection and maintenance tasks on machinery and equipment. One of the notable advantages of mobile manipulators is their ability to collaborate with and support human workers. The shortage of skilled labor and the lack of applicants for factory jobs are likely to drive further demand.
4 – Digital Twins
Digital twin technology is increasingly being used as a tool to optimize the performance of physical systems by creating virtual replicas. As robots become more digitally integrated into factories, digital twins can use real-world operational data to run simulations and predict potential outcomes. Since digital twins exist purely as computer models, they can be stress-tested and modified without safety risks, while also saving costs. All experiments can be reviewed before being applied in the physical world. Digital twins bridge the gap between the digital and physical realms.
5 – Humanoid Robots
Robotics is witnessing significant advancements in humanoid robots, which are designed to perform a variety of tasks in diverse environments. The human-like design, with two arms and two legs, allows these robots to be flexibly used in work environments originally created for humans. As a result, they can be easily integrated into existing warehouse processes and infrastructure.
Recently, China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) announced detailed targets for its ambition to achieve mass production of humanoid robots by 2025. MIIT predicts that humanoid robots could become another disruptive technology, similar to computers or smartphones, potentially transforming how goods are produced and how people live.
The potential impact of humanoid robots across various industries makes this an exciting area of development. However, mass-market adoption remains a complex challenge. Cost is a key factor, and success will depend on return on investment, such as competing with established robotic solutions like mobile manipulators.
Conclusion
"These five complementary automation trends for 2024 demonstrate that robotics is a multidisciplinary field where technologies are converging to create intelligent solutions for a wide range of tasks," said Marina Bill, President of the International Federation of Robotics. "These advancements continue to shape the converging industrial and service robotics sectors and the future of work."
