33103-00-04-10-02-00 Mobile manipulators, known as “MoMas,” are automating material handling tasks in industries such as automotive, logistics or aerospace. They combine the mobility of a robotic platform with the dexterity of a robotic arm. This allows them to navigate complex environments and manipulate objects, which is crucial for applications in manufacturing. These robots are equipped with sensors and cameras to perform inspection and maintenance tasks on machinery and equipment. One of the significant advantages of mobile manipulators is their ability to collaborate and support human workers. A shortage of skilled labor and a lack of employees applying for factory jobs could increase demand.

4 – Digital twin

Digital twin technology is increasingly being used as a tool to optimize the performance of physical systems by creating virtual copies. As robots become more digitally integrated in factories, digital twins can use data from their real-world operations to run simulations and predict possible outcomes. Because twins exist purely as computer models, they can be stress tested and modified without creating safety hazards and at the same time saving costs. All experiments can be examined before touching the physical world. Digital twins bridge the gap between the digital and physical worlds.

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5 – Humanoid robot

33103-00-04-10-02-00 Robotics is witnessing major advances in humanoid robots designed to perform a variety of tasks in a variety of environments. The humanoid design with two arms and two legs allows the robot to be used flexibly in work environments that are actually created for humans. As a result, it can be easily integrated into existing warehouse processes and infrastructure.

Humanoid robots performing various tasks in a variety of environments/Social Robots ARI © PAL Robotics

China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) recently published detailed targets for the country’s ambition to mass-produce humanoid robots by 2025. The Ministry predicts that humanoid robots could become another disruptive technology, similar to computers or smartphones, that could change the way we produce goods and the way humans live.

The potential impact of humanoid robots on various industries makes them an exciting area of development, but their mass market adoption remains a complex challenge. Cost is a key factor and success will depend on its return on investment, such as competing with mature robotic solutions such as mobile manipulators.

Marina Bill, President of the International Federation of Robotics, said: “The top five complementary automation trends for 2024 show that robotics is a multidisciplinary field where technologies are converging to create intelligent solutions for a variety of tasks. “These advances continue to shape the converged industrial and service robotics industry and the future of work.”