Introduction: Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Mobile Cobots
The market for mobile cobots is experiencing unprecedented momentum, driven by a combination of rapid technological development, changing regulatory frameworks and increasing demand for automation and efficiency. The major players, such as the robot manufacturers, IT service providers, the provider of robots and the developer of artificial intelligence, are now vying for leadership by deploying their unique skills. The robot manufacturers focus on robust hardware solutions, while IT system integrators focus on interoperability through advanced software platforms. Artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things are becoming critical differentiators, enabling real-time data processing and operations to be optimized. Also, the trend towards green building is causing companies to adopt sustainable practices and further shaping market positioning. The market is expected to grow strongly from 2024 to 2025, especially in North America and Asia-Pacific, where strategic deployment trends are converging with industry demands for higher automation and cobots.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
The mobile robots are developed by many suppliers and integrated with the robot controller.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| ABB Limited |
Strong global presence and innovation |
Industrial automation and robotics |
Global |
| Fanuc Corporation |
Robust product portfolio and reliability |
Robotic automation solutions |
Global |
| Kuka Ag |
Advanced robotics technology and flexibility |
Industrial robots and automation |
Global |
| Yaskawa Electric Corporation |
Leading motion control expertise |
Robotics and automation solutions |
Global |
Specialized Technology Vendors
These vendors focus on the development of specialized, application-oriented technology and solutions for mobile automation.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Aubo Robotics |
Collaborative robot technology |
Collaborative robots (cobots) |
Asia, Europe |
| Kawada Robotics |
Human-robot collaboration expertise |
Collaborative robots and automation |
Asia, Europe |
| Techman Robot Inc. |
Integrated vision systems in cobots |
Collaborative robots with vision |
Asia, North America |
| Waypoint Robotics |
User-friendly navigation technology |
Mobile autonomous robots |
North America |
| Robotnik |
Customizable mobile robot solutions |
Mobile robotics and automation |
Europe, Asia |
Infrastructure & Equipment Providers
These suppliers provide the basic components and the necessary supporting facilities for the implementation and operation of mobile robots.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| MrRK-Systeme Gmbh |
Specialized in mobile robot systems |
Mobile robotics systems |
Europe |
| Precise Automation |
Precision automation solutions |
Automation and robotics |
North America |
| Robert Bosch Gmbh |
Diverse technology integration |
Automation and robotics solutions |
Global |
| PBA Group |
Focus on automation and robotics |
Robotics and automation solutions |
Europe |
| Staubli International Ag |
High-performance industrial robots |
Industrial automation and robotics |
Global |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- Fetch Robotics, Inc., of the United States, specializes in the development of mobile robots for warehouse and logistics applications. It has recently secured a contract with a major retailer for the purpose of inventory control. It is a viable alternative to the established suppliers because of its scalability and flexibility, and its e-commerce focus.
- Pudu Robotics, China: The company's products are mainly used in the service industry and health care, and it has recently deployed robots in several hospitals for the delivery of goods, challenging established vendors with its cost-effective and advanced navigation capabilities.
- MiR, Mobile Industrial Robots (Denmark): MiR offers a range of self-driving robots for production and logistics, and recently worked with a major automobile manufacturer to optimize its production line. MiR complements established suppliers with its focus on easy integration and a human-friendly user interface.
- Locus (US): Autonomous warehouse robots. Recently enlarged its deployment in a large e-commerce warehouse. Has been able to compete with established players in the market by focusing on real-time data and operational efficiency.
- OMRON ADPETT TECHNOLOGIES, USA: Delivers mobile robots for various industrial applications, has just signed a contract with a pharmaceutical company for the automation of material handling, complements established suppliers by integrating advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning for improved navigation.
Regional Trends: In 2023, the Mobile Cobots Market is expected to grow significantly in North America and Asia-Pacific, driven by the increased automation in the logistics and manufacturing sectors. Companies are now focusing on niche applications such as medical and e-commerce, with the aim of increasing the efficiency of operations and reducing the cost of labor. Cobots, robots that can work side by side with human workers, are also gaining in popularity, which has led to a more integrated approach in various industries.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- The companies Mobile Industrial Robots (MIR) and Universal Robots are now to join forces in a technological partnership. They are to develop a series of automation solutions for the manufacturing industry, thus strengthening their position in the market for mobile robots.
- In the early nineteen-nineties, when demand for automation was at its highest, a division of the American company Adept was acquired by Omron.
- Fetch Robotics and Zebra Technologies have teamed up to develop advanced inventory management solutions using mobile robots. The goal is to improve efficiency and place both companies as leaders in warehouse automation.
Competitive Summary Table
| Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
|---|
| Biometric Self-Boarding |
SITA, Gemalto |
SITA has installed biometric boarding solutions in several airports, thereby improving the flow of passengers and reducing waiting times. Gemalto’s technology has been very successful in many major international airports. |
| AI-Powered Ops Mgmt |
Siemens, KUKA |
In the context of cobot deployment, Siemens is using artificial intelligence to achieve maximum efficiency and to improve availability, as shown by its partnership with a leading logistics company. KUKA's cobots, which are equipped with artificial intelligence, optimize the warehouse's operations and thus increase the turnover rate significantly. |
| Border Control |
Thales, NEC |
Thales has developed border-control systems incorporating biometric verification which have been successfully implemented at European frontiers. NEC’s facial recognition system has proved its speed and accuracy, contributing to the security of entry points. |
| Sustainability |
ABB, FANUC |
Case studies demonstrate that energy consumption can be reduced by using energy-efficient cobots. FANUC’s commitment to the circular economy is reflected in the use of recyclable materials in its cobots, which appeals to companies that are committed to the circular economy. |
| Passenger Experience |
Robotaxi, MHI |
Having successfully tested the technology in a number of cities, it is now ready to offer its services on a wider scale. MHI’s cobots are designed to interact with passengers without any interruptions, improving service efficiency in airports. |
Conclusion: Navigating the Mobile Cobots Landscape
The mobile cobots market in 2023 is characterized by strong competition and high fragmentation. Both traditional and new players are fighting for market share. The growth in North America and Europe is driven by the rapid development of automation and artificial intelligence. Strategic positioning is based on meeting the needs of the customer. The old players are improving their existing solutions, and the new players are developing new and flexible solutions. Artificial intelligence and sustainable practices are the key to leadership and differentiation.
