2024 Logo
The intersection of artificial intelligence and robotics is rapidly evolving, with new research indicating a significant market expansion in this area. According to a report by global technology intelligence firm ABI Research, the integration of AI into industrial and collaborative robotics has reached a pivotal point, unlocking a multi-billion-dollar retrofit market and even larger opportunities in untapped sectors.
The report entitled The Landscape of AI in Industrial and Collaborative Robotics reveals that AI-augmented robots have achieved a level of technological maturity suitable for widespread adoption. This development presents substantial return on investment (ROI) for manufacturers and logistics providers. The potential for new revenue streams is especially pronounced in sectors that require sophisticated, adaptable automation solutions, moving beyond the limitations of traditional robotic systems.
George Chowdhury, a senior analyst at ABI Research, emphasized the significance of this advancement, stating, “For years, the robotics industry has grappled with the ‘sim-to-real’ gap and the over-promising of nascent AI.” He added that current algorithms, particularly those related to Dynamic Policy Adjustment (DPA) and Robotics Foundation Models, enable robots to execute complex and unpredictable tasks efficiently.
While traditional robotics continue to serve static manufacturing processes, growth opportunities lie in “under-automated” markets that demand dexterous manipulation. This encompasses specialized sectors such as life sciences, semiconductor production, and the expansive logistics and warehousing industries, where adaptability is crucial.
Key Advances Reshaping Robotics
ABI Research’s findings outline several key advancements that are reshaping the robotics landscape. Technologies such as reinforcement learning, large language model interfaces for human-robot interaction, and machine vision algorithms are pivotal for future developments. The report assesses the maturity of these technologies and identifies leading innovators in each area.
Notable companies advancing DPA and adaptive automation include InBolt, T-Robotics, Apera, and NVIDIA. In the realm of machine vision hardware and vertical AI-robotics solutions, key players consist of SICK, Cognex, and OnRobot, among others. Additionally, new robotics foundation models from Google DeepMind, Covariant, and Meta signal a transition towards more capable and adaptable autonomous systems.
Challenges for Commercial Adoption
Despite these advancements, challenges remain in translating technical readiness into commercial success. Chowdhury points out that vendors must prioritize usability, transparency, and clear ROI metrics to navigate economic uncertainty and market skepticism. The report serves as a vital resource for enterprises seeking to strategically invest in embodied and physical AI, offering insights to identify lucrative applications and streamline integration processes.
ABI Research’s report is part of its Industrial, Collaborative & Commercial Robotics research service, which includes in-depth research, data, and expert insights. The firm is strategically positioned to bridge technology solution providers and end-market companies, facilitating successful technology implementations and strategies that attract and retain customers. For more information on ABI Research, interested parties can contact them at their respective regional offices or visit their website at www.abiresearch.com.
