ABB HAS IDENTIFIED THREE MAJOR TRENDS THAT WILL AFFECT DEMAND FOR ROBOTS IN 2022

ABB has developed a set of growth forecasts, looking at the key aspects driving demand for robots in the coming year, as companies across many sectors look for new ways to improve their productivity and competitiveness after the epidemic.
According to Marc Segura, president of ABB’s Robotics Division, the pandemic has accelerated far-reaching global megatrends, from labor shortages and supply chain unpredictability to the individualized consumer and increased demand to operate. in a sustainable and resilient way. New patterns will emerge as technology unlocks new potential to meet customer needs, driving demand in areas where robots have not historically been deployed.
ABB has identified three major trends that will affect robot demand in 2022 based on market research and a study of 250 companies in various industries.
1. THE ELECTRIC VEHICLE REVOLUTION
Manufacturers must navigate the complexities of diversifying into electric cars alongside gasoline-powered vehicles. Due to the increased speed and flexibility required, new and existing manufacturers will move away from traditional linear manufacturing and toward flexible, modular production. Another key transition will be battery manufacturing moving closer to car assembly to meet regional and sustainability standards.
Manufacturers will be able to streamline component layout across facilities and create integrated, scalable, modular manufacturing cells typically associated with e-commerce and consumer goods.
2. THE RISE OF ELECTRONIC COMMERCE
According to a survey by the Robotics Society of America, tens of thousands of robots are being placed around the world where they were not used just five years ago (RSAA). In 2022, the increasing rate of automation will be driven by a combination of consumer preferences and a growing labor shortage.
This trend will see the rise of smaller, lighter robotic applications, allowing automation to expand into new areas of warehousing and distribution operations. As AI in robotics matures and learning robots become more common, Segura predicts these technologies will be deployed alongside AMR technologies. Intelligent software orchestrates and manages the process for greater flexibility, speed and efficiency.
DEVELOPMENT OF NEW SKILLS AMONG WORKERS
In a future with a high prevalence of robots in workplaces, engineers and staff will need to be retrained. An acceleration of robots is being seen as companies look for new ways to automate different tasks. Companies will find it easier to implement intelligent automation in new situations as the ability of robots to work directly with humans, share tasks and learn through AI improves.
Connectivity and data acquisition will be key enablers of future manufacturing, Segura said. Advanced programming and simulation software tools will cover the entire life cycle of robotic applications, he added.
Marc Segura, CEO of ABB: “Flexibility is a strategic need, essential throughout the value chain, from manufacturing and logistics to the point of consumption. Robotic automation is a critical component of this adaptability. Our goal is to help our clients achieve this flexibility and add value to their businesses.”

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