Emerging robotics trends and forecasts address the need for industrial automation, digitalization, and sustainability. Material handling in warehouses is automated by autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and automated guided vehicles (AGVs). Researching a sample of 8,949 global start-ups and Robotics Trends Scale 2023, we delve into the top robotics trends and forecasts. This study provides data-driven innovation intelligence that enhances strategic decision-making by outlining startups and developing technologies in the robotics industry. These insights are gained by leveraging more than 2,500,000 startups and expanding companies across the globe to cover robotics trends and forecasts to 2023.
TOP 01 Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR)
In manufacturing, workers are exposed to hazardous scenarios such as toxic chemicals, confined spaces or heavy machinery. Autonomous mobile robots can use sensors, artificial intelligence, and computer vision to understand their surroundings and navigate autonomously. For example, to monitor inventory conditions and automate material handling, warehouse AMRs use scanners; this prevents stock from running out. To speed up the process and save workers from handling heavy carts, AMRs can also transport subassemblies and parts over long distances within the factory.
TOP 02 Intelligent Robot
Thanks to the infusion of artificial intelligence into robotics, robots can use real-time information and optimize their work. Large datasets and real-time data are also used to train robots to become more accurate and effective. As a result, they are better able to sense their surroundings and resolve objects faster, allowing them to navigate independently.
TOP 03 Human-machine collaborative robot (Cobot)
Unlike traditional industrial robots, cobots or collaborative robots have cutting-edge sensors and algorithms to ensure safe behavior around people. To automate assembly activities such as welding of parts and drilling of screws, they mainly take the form of end-of-arm tools (EOAT). These robots move dangerous items such as heavy metals, polymers and other materials for human workers.
The main advantages of cobots are that they are flexible, safe and fast to implement, as well as easy to train. Pricing will continue to be pressured by the improvements that come with each advantage, such as the new low-cost Franka robot and the soon-to-be-rebranded Roberta robot. Buying collaborative robots into production may not be good for profit growth, but it is good business, especially for companies that want to use robots.
TOP 04 Robotics service (Robotics as a Service, RaaS service)
Robot development and maintenance is an expensive and time-consuming process. Because of these constraints, many organizations, especially small businesses, are unable to incorporate robotics into their operations. In some recent surveys, many companies have favored using robots to farmers rather than selling them robots. Dilution, seeding, irrigation, aerial imaging and analysis are typical examples of these agricultural robotic services. The idea of providing a service rather than selling a product has long been a good way to introduce an untested product to the market, and related startups have discovered the benefits of economies of scale. Analyzing data captured by drones and planning actionable plans has crossed industry boundaries, not just large corporations needing this technology, but oil and gas companies, NGOs, and governments as well. It is hoped that this technology will be used to monitor areas that are difficult for humans to access. Security companies have also applied the concept of "robot as a service" to security and other fields. Just as software provides services in the virtual world, robots can also provide services in the real world, and the line between the two has become blurred. Therefore, many companies and service providers provide SDK (Software Development Kit) to customers and open API (Application Programming Interface) to allow their robots to complete work in a larger range and make it easier for customers to use. Apple recently announced that it will open up Siri's API interface, and Amazon has also opened up its voice recognition systems Alexa and Echo. This has helped many startups to provide RaaS services using customized intelligent voice robots with built-in Alexa.
TOP 05 Cyber Security Bot
Robots are a prime target for cyber-attacks due to the increased integration and connectivity needs of IoT. Furthermore, due to the application of robotics in the defense, manufacturing, healthcare and aerospace industries, it is necessary to protect robotic solutions from unauthorized access. Robotic cybersecurity solutions protect endpoints and connectivity stacks to prevent data breaches and asset outages.
TOP 06 Drones (Drones)
Thanks to advances in edge computing, high-performance computing, and connectivity, startups are now able to build drones with greater range and capabilities. Use them to deliver cargo, collect aerial data, inspect infrastructure, and more in a variety of businesses. Instead, agricultural drones can distribute pesticides and plant seeds at specific locations, while tracking crops and monitoring the movement of livestock. The adaptability of drones has accelerated their integration with last-mile shipments such as groceries and medical supplies.
TOP 07 Robots for the Internet of Things (IoT)
focus on manufacturing, interaction, and autonomous behavior, while Internet of Things (IoT) provides sensing, monitoring, and tracking. The performance of connected robots is driven by an edge computing platform that collects and sends data to enable feedback-driven workflows. Thanks to recent advances in IoT at the edge, robot manufacturers are now able to relocate computing closer to the source of the data. This allows robotic systems to use nearly real-time data and maximize mission efficiency.
TOP 08 Humanoid Robot
Humanoid robots are increasingly being used for tasks such as touch-free cleaning and hospital delivery in the post-pandemic world. Additionally, they are used in inspection, maintenance and disaster reconstruction operations of power plants, thereby keeping personnel out of danger. In addition to receiving and entertaining guests at the front desk, they also visit the sick and elderly. They, like other robots, automate work to reduce expenses and increase production.
TOP 09 Automated Assisted Vehicles
Materials are typically transported by AGVs (also known as automated guided vehicles) in warehouses, distribution centers and production facilities. Their movement is controlled by a combination of software and sensor-based navigation systems that follow predetermined paths.
TOP 10 Helpful robots
People of all abilities are increasingly benefiting from the independence and quality of life afforded by assistive robots. To sense, process and communicate with people, they use sensors and intelligent algorithms. They are now able to live safely and independently in their own homes.