The industrial robotics market has evolved from simple robotic arms to widespread applications. It presently encounters various challenges along the way. That includes high prices and intricate hardware. Initial designs were constrained by their infrastructure. This also needs tracks or magnets to function. Additionally, their reliance on battery power severely restricted their range and capabilities.
Over the last twenty years, the industrial development has accelerated advancements significantly. However, this does not imply that the path ahead will be easy. Numerous challenges in the industrial robotics market persist.
The Challenges
Even though the industrial robotics market size is expanding, it still encounters several obstacles along the way.
- High costs
The significant costs associated with implementation present a major hurdle in adopting these robots. The integration process is often prolonged, challenging, and costly. Specifications for new tasks might require workspace redesigning and repurposing of robotic personnel. Even small changes to the manufacturing line could necessitate the assistance of a specialized integrator.
Implementing new robot systems alongside current technologies and infrastructures poses challenges for large companies. Smaller SMEs often consider the costs to be unreasonable or too high. Moreover, sales and production volumes must remain steady during the anticipated ROI period to recover the initial investment.
- Inflexibility
The insufficient coordination issue is also prevalent. Each manufacturer not only offers its hardware but also the software solutions. This further creates a demand for multiple programming interfaces to manage interactions between devices. It sometimes requires custom software. The inability to easily repurpose existing robotics technologies limits the range of roles that robots can fulfill. Even knowledgeable and seasoned line workers frequently struggle to enhance manufacturing processes in this way.
Increased flexibility would enable robotic systems to adapt to faster integration. It further enhances robot reusability. This could also facilitate reconfigurable work cells and manufacturing lines. Moreover, a factory could reduce its energy footprint by utilizing one production line for multiple products.
- Safety issues
New technology brings about new procedures. This can further create fresh safety hazards in the work environment. Industrial robots are subject to this with safety regulations in place and serious penalties for violations.
Manufacturers must prepare for the integration of the robotic systems. It is by creating a safe environment for personnel that meets all compliance requirements. Investment in these robots would be more appealing if manufacturers can find the right balance between versatility and safety.
- Talent problems
Workers need to gain a higher expertise levels as they do not understand how to use new equipment effectively. With mobile robots, they may be unsure of how to behave around them. It frequently gets in the way or being confused about task allocation between human and automated personnel.
Because the technology is still in its early stages, there is not an established academic training program like those for more traditional skills. Consequently, many employees will require training. Companies may also need to recruit individuals who already have the relevant education and experience.
- Workflow management
Another challenge in the industrial robotics market is in the workflow management. Product workflows should be assessed to identify potential gains from integrating robots. It involves calculating the orientation and speed of part presentation to ensure optimal productivity without overburdening current systems.
