Authoritative release! Five major trends in robotics technology in 2024!

The International Federation of Robotics (IFR) recently listed the top five global robotics trends for this year, attributing the growing demand for automation to technological innovation.

The IFR noted that the global stock of operational robots hit a new record of around 3.9 million units in 2022, with the average robot density (the number of robots per 10,000 human workers) rising to 151.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning help more robots

There is a growing trend towards using artificial intelligence in robotics and automation.

In particular, the emergence of generative AI is opening up new possibilities. This subset of AI specializes in creating something new from what it has learned through training, and generative AI has been popularized by tools like ChatGPT, the IFR explains.

Robot manufacturers have begun developing generative AI-driven interfaces that allow users to program systems more intuitively using natural language rather than code. Experts predict that workers will no longer need specialized programming skills to select and adjust robots’ movements.

Another example of a combination of technologies is the use of predictive AI to analyse robot performance data and determine the future state of equipment, while predictive maintenance can save manufacturers the cost of machine downtime, the IFR said.

In the automotive parts industry, unplanned downtime costs an estimated $1.3 million per hour, according to the Information Technology & Innovation Foundation, demonstrating the potential for cost savings from predictive maintenance.

Machine learning algorithms can also analyze data from multiple robots performing the same process to optimize it. Generally speaking, the more data a machine learning algorithm is given, the better it performs, the IFR said.

Collaborative robots expand into new applications

Human-robot collaboration remains a major trend in robotics.

Rapid advances in sensors , vision technology, and smart grippers are enabling robots to respond to changes in their environment in real time, allowing them to work safely alongside human workers.

Collaborative robotic applications provide human workers with a new tool that reduces their burden and support. Collaborative robots can assist with tasks that require heavy lifting, repetitive movements, or working in hazardous environments.

The range of collaborative applications offered by robot manufacturers continues to expand, with the most recent market development being the increase in collaborative robot welding applications, which is driven by a shortage of skilled welders.

Demand suggests that automation is not causing labor shortages, but rather providing a solution to them.

Therefore, collaborative robots will complement rather than replace investments in traditional industrial robots , which operate at much faster speeds and therefore remain important for improving productivity to combat low product margins.

In addition, IFR noted that new competitors are entering the market, with collaborative robots being a particular concern. The combination of collaborative robot arms and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) in mobile manipulators offers new use cases that could expand demand for collaborative robots.

Mobile manipulator automates material handling

Mobile manipulators, so-called "MoMas", automate material handling tasks in industries such as automotive, logistics or aerospace.

They combine the mobility of mobile robots with the dexterity of collaborative robot arms, which enables them to navigate complex environments and manipulate objects, which the IFR says is critical for manufacturing applications.

Equipped with sensors and cameras, these robots can perform inspection and maintenance tasks on machinery and equipment. One advantage of mobile manipulators is their ability to collaborate and support human workers. The IFR asserts that a shortage of skilled labor and a shortage of employees applying for factory jobs could increase demand.

Digital twins help optimize performance

Digital twin technology is increasingly being used as a tool to optimize the performance of physical systems by creating virtual copies.

As robots become increasingly digitally integrated in factories , digital twins can use their real-world operational data to run simulations and predict likely outcomes.

IFR said that digital twin technology can check all experiments before contacting the physical world, and can be stress-tested and modified without causing safety risks and saving costs. Digital twin technology can effectively bridge the gap between the simulated world and the physical world.

Humanoid robots will move forward

“Robotics is seeing significant advancements in humanoid robots designed to perform a variety of tasks in a variety of environments”

The IFR said that the humanoid design with two arms and two legs allows the robot to be used flexibly in environments built for humans. As a result, companies may find it easier to integrate humanoid robots into existing infrastructure and facilities, such as warehouses.