As mobile robot deployment is anticipated to exceed 1 million units by 2030, the complexities of implementation and the significant costs of robot downtime present substantial challenges. Effective, affordable performance in real-world environments remains essential for customers seeking operational efficiency improvements through mobile robots. This article explores the underlying issues and strategies related to the total cost of ownership (TCO) for mobile robots, with insights from industry experts and upcoming discussions at RoboBusiness.
Earlier discussions on this topic highlighted the difficulty in managing AI and SLAM systems due to real-world variability. The costs associated with robot downtime, predicted at $1,000 to $10,000 per minute, continue to be a major concern. While the focus has been on reducing the bill of materials (BoM), these cost-saving measures often lead to trade-offs in performance, revealing hidden costs not measured or managed effectively. Recently, the emphasis has shifted towards understanding the comprehensive costs involved in developing, maintaining, and updating autonomy solutions.
Focus on Total Cost of Ownership
At the upcoming RoboBusiness event in Santa Clara, California, Jack Pearson, Commercial Director at Opteran, will address why TCO is crucial for making informed decisions in mobile robot deployment. Pearson emphasizes that BoM is just one aspect of the lifecycle costs necessary for a comprehensive autonomy solution. His scheduled talk, “Beyond BoM: Autonomy Challenges in Mobile Robots,” will delve into the complexities of measuring TCO and the hidden costs that can erode profit margins and customer satisfaction.
Opteran’s Innovative Approach
Opteran, a UK-based company founded in 2019, has introduced Opteran Mind, a vision-based autonomy solution that eliminates the need for extensive training, infrastructure, or connectivity for perception and navigation. This innovation earned them the 2024 RBR50 Robotics Innovation Award. Pearson’s presentation at RoboBusiness will shed light on how Opteran’s approach can contribute to more sustainable and scalable robotic solutions by addressing the hidden costs associated with TCO.
“BoM is just one important part in a life cycle of costs required to develop, set up, maintain, and update an autonomy solution,” Pearson stated. “Yet often it is the main or only cost factor considered in purchasing decisions.”
RoboBusiness will feature over 60 speakers, 100 exhibitors, and multiple networking opportunities, including keynotes from industry leaders such as Rodney Brooks and Sergey Levine. The event will also host the Pitchfire Robotics Startup Competition and a Women in Robotics Luncheon, providing a platform for discussing advancements and challenges in the field.
Understanding TCO in mobile robotics is crucial for long-term profitability and competitive edge. Hidden costs often undermine initial savings from reduced BoM, thus making comprehensive cost analysis essential. Opteran’s vision-based autonomy approach exemplifies how innovative solutions can address these hidden costs, providing a path towards more efficient and scalable robotic implementations. By focusing on the entire lifecycle of costs, companies can better manage their investments and enhance their products’ competitiveness in the market.
