The International Federation of Robotics (IFR) has pinpointed five major trends set to shape the robotics industry this year. Hailing from Frankfurt, Germany, the IFR links the increased demand for automation directly to recent technological breakthroughs. The organization has unveiled a list that differs from its evaluations in previous years.
Artificial Intelligence Enhances Robot Capabilities
Notably, artificial intelligence continues to infuse the robotics sector, with generative AI paving the way for novel functionalities. The IFR highlights this AI category for its ability to innovate based on learned information. Robot manufacturers are leveraging generative AI to simplify system programming, allowing natural language voice commands to replace complex coding. Additionally, predictive AI is revolutionizing maintenance approaches by anticipating equipment conditions, which could result in substantial savings by reducing machine downtime. For instance, the Information Technology & Innovation Foundation equates each hour of unplanned automotive parts industry downtime to a loss of $1.3 million. Machine learning further optimizes processes across multiple robots, improving with larger data sets.
Collaborative Robots Take On More Roles
The upsurge of collaborative robots, or cobots, is transforming human-robot interaction. Advancements in sensors and smart grippers are enabling cobots to adapt to real-time environmental changes, thereby ensuring safe operation alongside humans. Cobots assist in tasks that are tedious or hazardous, and new applications, such as cobot welding, are emerging due to skilled labor shortages. The IFR argues that automation is a solution to labor deficits, not a cause. With expanding applications and new entrants in the market, cobots, especially when paired with autonomous mobile robots, are poised to redefine collaborative efforts.
Mobile Manipulators Revolutionize Material Handling
Mobile manipulators, or “MoMas,” are set to automate material handling in various industries by marrying the mobility of robots with the functionality of cobot arms. These systems navigate complex spaces and perform equipment inspections and maintenance, supporting human workers. Labor shortages are expected to bolster the demand for these versatile robots.
Digital Twins Optimize Robot Performance
The IFR also emphasizes the growing role of digital twins in enhancing physical systems. Digital replicas allow for risk-free simulations and outcome predictions, enabling cost-effective and secure system modifications. This technology bridges the virtual and physical realms by capitalizing on real-world data from digitally integrated robots.
Humanoid Robots Continue to Advance
Humanoid robots, capable of performing diverse tasks, are making strides in robotics. Their human-like design facilitates deployment in human-centric environments, leading to greater integration into existing infrastructures such as warehouses.
The IFR’s forecast for 2024 suggests a year marked by innovation as artificial intelligence, collaborative robots, mobile manipulators, digital twins, and humanoid robots drive the industry forward, enabling higher levels of automation and efficiency.
