Businesses Embracing Drones Are Expanding into Various Robotics Domains, According to a Recent Study
In the rapidly evolving world of industrial automation, companies are increasingly turning to robots to meet their needs. From drones to ground-based robotic solutions and submersible robots, a diverse range of machines is being utilised for inspections and other tasks.
Drones, with their ability to collect visual or thermal data remotely, are particularly useful for external inspections of power lines and chimneys, as well as internal inspections of large boilers or pressure vessels. Companies like Boston Dynamics' Spot robot, known for its autonomous capabilities, are seeing large-scale adoption for such inspections.
However, drones are not the only robots in demand. Ground-based robots, divided into quadruped systems and "other" by DroneAnalyst, are also gaining popularity. Quadruped systems, such as the Spot robot, are commonly used for inspections due to their all-terrain mobility.
Industrial robots, including SCARA robots, multi-axis and 6-axis robotic arms, and delta robots, are also essential tools. SCARA robots, known for their precision and speed, are ideal for assembly, material handling, pick-and-place, and packaging tasks. Meanwhile, multi-directional robots are used for complex operations that demand precision and flexibility.
Humanoid robots, such as AgiBot RAISE A2, Fourier GR-1, and Keplerbot, offer AI-powered navigation and manipulation for industrial inspections, logistics, manufacturing, and security tasks. These robots, with multiple degrees of freedom, can perform precise manipulation in varied environments.
As drones develop, they will be able to carry more and more types of sensors, expanding their capabilities. Some systems integrate robotics with AI vision, drones, and digital twins for intelligent, automated inspections that enhance data analysis and real-time monitoring. Robotics platforms often include software for mission planning, dynamic patrol, and rapid deployment to complex industrial environments.
Companies are choosing the tool that best suits the work they plan to do, and the demand for inspection drones is expected to increase. Moreover, drone companies and service providers may see this data as an opportunity to partner, acquire, or launch their own robotics divisions.
The survey by DroneAnalyst reveals that 63% of companies in the Energy and Utility sector that use drones plan to adopt other types of robots. This trend is expected to continue, with 22% of companies with drone programs planning to purchase another type of robot. Interestingly, companies are not using marine drones significantly, according to the same survey.
In conclusion, companies deploy a range of robots, including SCARA, multi-axis industrial arms, humanoid AI robots, and autonomous quadrupeds, depending on the inspection or automated task’s complexity, precision needs, payload, and environment. Companies may need full solutions for their remote data collection needs, leading to potential collaboration between drone and other robotics industries. Business and agency users are encouraged to consider their need for uncrewed systems holistically instead of focusing on a single domain. The adoption of all types of robots, including drones, is expected to grow as companies become more aware of their capabilities.
[1] Robotics and Automation News [2] Robotics Business Review [3] DroneAnalyst [4] The Robot Report [5] Automation World
- The demand for drones, particularly useful for external and internal inspections, is expected to increase as companies seek efficient solutions for various tasks.
- Companies in the Energy and Utility sector that already use drones are planning to adopt other types of robots, such as SCARA and multi-axis industrial arms, humanoid AI robots, and autonomous quadrupeds.
- The adoption of all types of robots, including drones, is expected to grow as companies become more aware of their capabilities, potentially leading to collaborations between drone and other robotics industries.
