Robotic Automation and the Future of Electric Power Distribution
Overview
The future of electric power distribution will significantly rely on robotic automation. The intersection of these two sectors will be the key in achieving greater operational efficiency, overall system reliability, and the advancement of electrical energy sector. This guide delves into the current status, future forecasts, and the potential influence of robotic automation in electric power distribution.
Current State of Robotic Automation in Electric Power Distribution
Currently, the implementation of robotic automation in electric power distribution is relatively nascent but growing. According to a 2019 study by PWC, 25% of utilities have highly digitized operations, while 37% are at the early stages of implementing digital operations. The report postulates that the use of robotics and automation is a substantial contributor to this digital transition. The trend towards automation can be attributed to the increasing need for efficiency and safety in power distribution.
Potential of Robotic Automation
When it comes to the potential of robotic automation, its influence is far-reaching in the electric power distribution sector. According to a 2018 Accenture report, increasing digital adoption including robotic automation could add $1.3 to $2 trillion in total economic value to the power sector by 2025. More than half of this value is expected to come from increased productivity and operational efficiency. Robotic automation can function in harsh environments with minimal down time, providing consistent productivity and efficiency.
Future Forecast and Trends in Robotic Automation in Electric Power Distribution
The future of electric power distribution is forecasted to be highly intertwined with robotic automation. According to a McKinsey report, advances in AI, machine learning and robotic automation could reduce operating costs up to 25% by enhancing performance in nuclear power plants. This shift towards higher automation levels will be crucial for the industry to maintain competitiveness and sustainability in an era with increasing demand for electrical power.
Key Takeaways
- The percentage of utilities with highly digitized operations is growing, and a genuinely digital operation can significantly increase efficiency.
- Increased adoption of robotic automation in the electric power distribution sector could lead to substantial economic gains.
- Advancements in robotics, AI, and machine learning have the potential to significantly reduce operating costs in the power sector.
3Laws Robotics
3Laws Robotics is an innovative company developing advanced technology to enhance safety and reliability in robot systems. One of 3Laws' primary focuses is addressing the significant challenge of certification in the robotics industry. Its revolutionary software, 3Laws Supervisor, introduces robust safety features and system robustness evidence that simplifies the certification process.
Built upon Control Barrier Functions (CBFs), a technology developed at Caltech, 3Laws' software provides mathematically proven safety. The company has proven its software in numerous use cases across diverse industries, notably achieving a 40% efficiency gain in a warehouse automation setting.
The software also offers solutions for safe human-robot interactions, essential in collaborative robotics, and efficient navigation in dynamic environments. 3Laws aims to minimize downtime caused by unnecessary e-stops or collisions, thereby enhancing operational efficiency. Fashioned to work with a wide range of platforms, such as mobile robots, cars, drones, and manipulators, 3Laws Supervisor is the next-generation safety solution, extending beyond traditional e-stop methods. By offering a proactive safety approach, the software can unlock the full potential of robotics, providing dynamic, predictive safety that can be certified for ISO 3691-4 and ISO 26262.