What is certain is that in the logistics sector, robotics is one of the most influential and key areas in terms of the development and improvement of processes. At a technical level, robotics is a specific branch of mechatronic engineering. Robots are designed and built using electrical, electronic and mechanical engineering (among other techniques) and are used to perform a number of tasks at industrial installations (normally replacing human work to improve time and productivity).
The next edition of the International Robot Show will shortly be held in China, a country renowned as a world leader in robotics technology. Many of the major players in the logistics sector are expected to attend this event.
The major influence of robotics in the logistics sector.
Currently, 80% of logistics installations largely continue to conduct their processes manually. However, robotics and other technological improvements are having an ever increasing influence on logistics.
The reality is that the larger companies (for example Amazon and Google), are investing in innovative new production processes, which include the use of robots. Amazon, in particular, is one of the companies now incorporating state of the art robotics into their picking, packaging and dispatch tasks.
For a while now, robotics is playing an ever more important role in the logistics sector. As demand grows, the degree of automated technology being used is increasing exponentially.
According to sector trends
It is thought that corporate robots are going to transform the logistics sector, having a significant impact on the supply chain.
The introduction of technology into the logistics sector is taking its time. This is due to the fact that robotics needs to be adapted to the requirements of the sector, taking into account fundamental concepts such as the cost of the robots themselves and their flexibility of use.
A new generation of robots
There is now a new generation of robots available which are capable of seeing, reacting and moving depending on their surroundings. In addition, these can perform precision tasks, working alongside humans. Ultimately, it is not only companies who are interested in applying robotics solutions to logistics, but also the large distributors and governments. The European Union is currently planning to invest 700 million Euros in robotics research and an additional 2.1 billion by 2020.
In other words, when we talk of robotics, we are discussing an emerging technology which will affect both the present and future of logistics in a widespread and beneficial manner. Robotics can refer to and influence sustainable energy, 3D impression, Big Data, self-driving cars and a whole range of other issues.