According to a market research report by IDTechEx titled “Mobile Robotics in Logistics, Warehousing, and Delivery 2024-2044,” the mobile robot industry has seen substantial growth in recent years. This growth can be attributed to advancements in robotics technology, autonomous navigation, and artificial intelligence. The report examines the technical, regulatory, and market aspects that are influencing the emerging logistics mobile robot industry.
The research reveals that there has been a significant increase in funding for various types of mobile robots, such as mobile picking, intralogistics, and material handling, from 2015 to 2022. This indicates the potential of mobile robots to automate various logistics operations, including material handling, material picking, long-haul distribution, and last-mile delivery. While some applications, like material transport using automated guided vehicles (AGVs), have already reached a mature stage, others, such as drone delivery, are still emerging and face regulatory constraints and technological challenges.
Despite varying levels of market readiness, each segment within the mobile robot industry is experiencing rapid growth, with technology giants acquiring start-up companies to capitalize on this trend. Recent examples include United Robotics Group’s acquisition of Robotnik, Amazon’s acquisition of iRobot, and the merger of Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR) with AutoGuide Mobile Robots.
The report provides an analysis of various mobile robots used in logistics operations, including AGVs, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), case-picking robots, mobile manipulators, heavy load autonomous mobile vehicles (AMVs), and last-mile delivery robots. It also highlights recent technology advancements and commercial transitions, such as Amazon’s fully autonomous mobile robot, Proteus, which is expected to drive the adoption of AMRs in warehouses.
IDTechEx’s research includes an in-depth technology analysis of emerging technologies that support the growth of mobile robots, such as sensors (LiDAR, ultrasonic sensors, cameras), software (computer vision, SLAM), and other navigation and sensing technologies. The report features insights from industry players, ranging from leading companies to start-ups, discussing their unique technologies, pain points, regulatory approvals, funding status, and flagship products.
One significant transition observed by IDTechEx is the shift from AGVs to AMRs. While AGVs rely on infrastructures like magnetic tapes and QR codes for navigation, AMRs use SLAM technology, providing more flexibility and reducing infrastructure costs. The report analyzes both AGVs and AMRs and offers an independent analysis of when each robot type would be favorable to users.
Looking ahead, the report provides a 20-year market forecast for mobile robotics in the logistics industry, with a projected market size of around US$150 billion. This presents significant opportunities for component suppliers, robot OEMs, and end-users.
In conclusion, the mobile robotics industry in logistics is gaining momentum, driven by advancements in technology and increasing automation needs. The report explores the various types of mobile robots, technology advancements, market trends, and forecasts, offering valuable insights for businesses operating in this sector.
Sources:
– IDTechEx’s market research report “Mobile Robotics in Logistics, Warehousing, and Delivery 2024-2044”