Industrial Robot as defined by ISO is an automatically controlled, reprogrammable, multipurpose manipulator programmable in three or more axes which may be stationary or mobile, for the purpose of industrial automation. Here the term Re-programmable indicates programmed motions or auxiliary functions may be changed without physical alterations; Multipurpose suggests that it is capable of being adapted to different applications. A Physical alteration is changing the mechanical structure or control system except for changes of programming cassettes, ROM's, etc. Industrial robotics field may be more practically defined as the study, design and use of robot systems for manufacturing. Typical applications of industrial robots include welding, painting, ironing, assembly, pick and place, palletizing, product inspection, and testing, all accomplished with high endurance, speed, and precision.
According to a market research report called “Industrial Robotics Market - Global Forecast & Analysis by Applications, Functions, Product & Geography (2012 - 2017)” published by MarketsandMarkets, the total industrial robotics market is expected to reach $32.8 billion by 2017 at a CA-GR of 5.0% from 2012 to 2017.
Over the last 50 years, industrial robotics’ applications have evolved from simple tasks like “pick and place” to complex functions like welding, glass & metal precision cutting, and assembling & dissembling. In terms of structure, industrial robots progressed from cylindrical co-ordinate frame to flexible multi axis arms, which can function in dynamic environment. Their dependence on human operators still needs innovations to function independently. As the automation of manufacturing processes evolved, so did the industrial robots.
Many factors like increased globalization, modernization and automation of the manufacturing units, the growing demand, competition, and pressure to increase productivity have forced the every industry to integrate industrial robotics into their manufacturing facilities. Industrial robotics started its journey with automotive applications; but off late, it has made its way into non-automotive industries’ manufacturing facilities as well. Industrial robots have proven to deliver a host of benefits in a wide variety of applications like welding & soldering, handling of materials and processing, assembling & disassembling, dispensing and painting, cutting, milling and other processing, and the other functions. The most articulated robots perform by storing a series of positions in memory, and moving to them at various times in their programming sequence. Vision guidance (aka machine vision) is bringing a lot of flexibility to robotic cells.
The misconception among employee unions of increasing unemployment with the installation of industrial robotics in manufacturing facility is due to lack of awareness, inaccurate cost justification given by management of companies, and constant additional training costs. MarketsandMarkets which is a global market research and consulting company based in the U.S. reputed for publishing strategically analyzed market research reports says that outside of Japan, Western Europe and North America, the robotics industry is at fruitful ground for growth from 2012 on-wards, led by growing economies like South Korea, China, India, and Brazil.
The whole report can be referred here.
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