Report of the International Federation of Robotics
The International Federation of Robotics (IFR) has released a report on the most important trends shaping robotics and automation in 2024 from their perspective. The IFR mentions that the global stock of industrial robots has reached a new record of around 3.9 million units.
In their report, the IFR identifies five trends:
– Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
– Cobots for new applications
– Mobile Manipulators
– Digital Twins
– Humanoid Robots
“The top 5 robotics and automation trends for 2024 show that robotics is a multidisciplinary field where technologies support each other to create intelligent solutions for a variety of tasks,” explains Marina Bill, President of the International Federation of Robotics.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
According to the IFR report, artificial intelligence is increasingly being used in robotics and automation. New solutions arise particularly through the development of generative AI. Another example mentioned by the IFR is predictive AI, which can analyze performance data from robots to determine the future state of facilities. According to the IFR, manufacturers can save costs for machine downtime through predictive maintenance.
Cobots for new applications
The collaboration between humans and robots continues to be an important trend in robotics. There have been significant advances in the development of sensors, image processing technologies, and intelligent grippers. This enables robots to react to changes in real-time, allowing them to work safely alongside humans.
Mobile Manipulators
Mobile manipulators, also known as “MoMas,” are used for automated material handling in various industries. Examples provided by the IFR include the automotive industry, logistics, and aerospace.
One of the key advantages of mobile manipulators is their ability to collaborate directly with human workers.
Digital Twins
Digital twins are increasingly being used to improve the performance of physical systems with their virtual counterparts. According to the IFR, robots in factories are increasingly digitally integrated.
Digital twins can better utilize the collected real-world data to conduct simulations and predict likely outcomes more accurately.
Humanoid Robots
Humanoid robots can now undertake a wide range of tasks in various fields of work. For example, they can be easily integrated into existing warehouse processes and infrastructures.
In summary, Marina Bill states regarding robot trends: “These advancements will continue to shape the convergence of industrial and service robotics and the future of work.”
Source: www.kloepfel-consulting.com