AI-AUGMENTED ROBOTICS TO ELEVATE INDUSTRY 4.0

The integration of advanced robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming several industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, automotive and aerospace,  forging a path towards the realization of Industry 4.0. While companies are heavily investing in proprietary technologies for innovation and productivity, challenges like cyber security and high costs remain. Collaborative  research  and  development   efforts as well as   standardized policies are crucial for harnessing the full potential of robotics, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

Evolution                    

Kiran Raj, practice head of disruptive tech at GlobalData, comments: “The evolution of robotics from teleoperation arms to advanced humanoids has sparked a competitive race among the industry leaders to develop robotic solutions that meet the rigorous demands of modern industrial applications. Companies are investing heavily in proprietary robotic technologies, integrating advanced AI systems to reduce dependency on external platforms and enhance their operational efficiencies.”

By  the  same   token,   Saurabh Daga, project manager for disruptive tech at GlobalData, adds: “Robotics stands as the backbone of transformation across multiple industries. It enables autonomous vehicles to navigate complex industrial environments, assist in precision surgeries in healthcare, and optimize logistics in supply chain management. Robots not only improve processes but also set new standards for efficiency and accuracy, advancing industries into the era of intelligent automation and Industry 4.0.”

GlobalData’s latest innovation radar report  dubbed : ‘ Transforming Workflows: Robotics in Industry’,  examines over   fifty    real-world applications of advanced robotics across various industries, including aerospace, healthcare, construction, automotive  and logistics. The report categorizes these applications based on different robotic technologies to highlight their impact and potential across these industries.

Cognitive robotics

Leonardo, in collaboration with Comau, has created a robotic solution for inspecting helicopter blades. This system uses cognitive robotics, advanced vision systems, and AI to perform detailed structural inspections, enhancing precision, flexibility  and efficiency in aircraft maintenance.

Humanoid

Mercedes-Benz has introduced Apollo, a humanoid to its factory floors. This innovation aims to enhance production efficiency and streamline operations through advanced robotics and AI technologies. Apollo integrates humanoid robots into industrial environments, focusing on tasks that require precision and adaptability.

Companion robot

Israeli robotics startup Intuition Robotics has launched ElliQ 3, an advanced AI-powered companion robot designed to support older adults in their daily lives. ElliQ 3 integrates advanced AI capabilities to offer personalized, empathetic interactions, enhancing the well-being and independence of its users.

AI-powered autonomous robots

Maersk and iB Cargo have partnered with robotics solution provider Dexory to integrate autonomous robots and AI at their Romanian hub, optimizing warehouse management with real-time data and digital twin technology, aiming to enhance logistics efficiency and operational precision.

In  conclusion, Daga says: “Although robotics has enormous potential to change many industries, obstacles including cyber security, interoperability, and expensive implementation costs prevent  it  from being fully integrated. To overcome this, stakeholders must work together more, invest more in  research  and  development, and create uniform policies and procedures. By doing this, industries will be able to take advantage of robotics’ unparalleled potential for increased productivity and creativity.”