Top 5 robotics trends

1. Energy efficiency

Today’s robots are designed to consume less energy, a must amid rising energy costs. Robots can also be equipped with energy saving technology, such as robot controls converting kinetic energy into electricity and feeding it back into the power grid. Another feature is the smart power saving mode that controls the robot’s energy supply on-demand throughout the workday. Additionally, robots work at higher speeds – increasing production so manufacturing is more time- and energy-efficient.

2. Reshoring

Resilience is an important driver for reshoring in various industries. One example is relocating microchip production back to the U.S. and Europe. Robots play a vital role in chip manufacturing, as they live up to the extreme requirements of precision. Specifically designed robots automate silicon wafer fabrication, take over cleaning and cleansing tasks or test integrated circuits.

3. Easier to use

Robot programming has become easier and more accessible. Original equipment manufacturers work hand-in-hand with low-code or even no-code technology partners, enabling users of all skill levels to program a robot. Easy-to-use software paired with an intuitive user experience replaces extensive robotics programming, opening automation opportunities. Simplified programming interfaces also drive the emerging new segment of low-cost robotics.

4. Artificial intelligence (AI) & digital automation

Cloud Computing, Big Data Analytics, or 5G mobile networks provide the technological base for optimized performance in a connected digital ecosystem. 5G will enable fully digitalized production, eliminating cables on the shopfloor. AI holds great potential for robotics, enabling better management of variability and unpredictability in the external environment, in real-time or off-line. This makes AI-supported machine learning (ML) play an increasing role in software offerings where running systems benefit – optimized processes, predictive maintenance, or vision-based gripping.

5. Robots get a second life

Industrial robots have a service life of up to 30 years; new tech equipment can now give old robots a second life. Industrial robot manufacturers run specialized repair centers to refurbish or upgrade used units resource-efficiently. This prepare-to-repair strategy saves costs and resources, an important contribution to the circular economy.

Source: https://ifr.org