Collaborative Robots and the Future of Logistics Robots
Overview
The future of logistics rests on the dexterous arms of collaborative robots (cobots) and logistical robots. Automation within this industry has the potential to increase warehouse efficiency, improve worker safety, and revolutionize operational processes. However, this automated revolution is highly dependent on advancements in robot safety and reliability.
The Rise of Collaborative Robots in Logistics
Research indicates that the global market for cobots is expected to reach $8.26 billion by 2027, with CAGR of 40.93% over the forecast period of 2020 to 2027 (Research and Markets, 2020). This rapid growth is fueled by an increasing need for reliable robotic systems in industries such as logistics. In addition to improving efficiency, cobots play a crucial safety role. They can operate alongside humans, handling hazardous tasks and heavy lifting and minimizing worker injuries. A recent study revealed that 10-20% of all industrial accidents are due to human errors, many of which could be avoided with increased cobot usage.
The Impact of Logistical Robots
Logistical robots are transforming the logistics sector like never before. According to the International Federation of Robotics, in 2019 there was a 144% increase in annual installations of logistic systems including logistics robots. They streamline warehouse operations, sort packages, transport goods, and ultimately increase productivity and reduce operational costs. It’s estimated that up to 80% of warehouses are either currently using or planning to implement logistics robots (Global Market Insights, 2020).
Key Takeaways
• Collaborative robots are expected to reach a market valuation of $8.26 billion by 2027 with a CAGR of 40.93%. • 10-20% of industrial accidents are due to human errors, which cobots can help reduce. • Logistic robots experienced a 144% increase in annual installations in 2019, leading to great operational efficiencies. • Up to 80% of warehouses are either currently using or planning to implement logistics robots.
Introducing 3Laws Robotics
3Laws Robotics is at the forefront of blending collaborative robots and logistical robots with human synergies. The team is focused on overcoming significant hurdles such as certification, a major challenge for many companies in the robotics sector. By developing 3Laws Supervisor, the company offers advanced safety features and demonstratable proof of system robustness, aiming to streamline the certification journey.
3Laws' innovations rely on Control Barrier Functions (CBFs), a revolutionary technology developed at Caltech, designed to provide mathematically guaranteed safety solutions. The company has wide-ranging applications across various industries.
For instance, in warehouse automation, 3Laws worked with an autonomous forklift customer to increase efficiency by 40%, leading to a payback period of just six months. The company’s technology also enhances human-robot interaction, ensuring safe and uninterrupted operation of robots around human workers.
Moreover, 3Laws can enhance operational efficiency by reducing downtime caused by unnecessary emergency stops or robot collisions. The software provides real-time limitations on autonomy stacks, maintaining the safety of the operations while allowing the robots to reach their peak capabilities. It's also adaptable and compatible with multiple platforms, ranging from mobile robots and cars to drones and manipulators, and is compatible with popular robotics middleware such as ROS and ROS2.
3Laws is a next-generation solution beyond traditional emergency stop methods. It offers a proactive approach to safety that unlocks the full potential of robotics, promising dynamic, predictive safety on the path to achieving safety certifications in line with ISO 3691-4 and ISO 26262.