The industrial automation sector experienced a record year for robot shipments in the U.S. in 2023, with 44,303 industrial robots shipped to manufacturers, according to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR). This surge was driven primarily by the automotive sector, which accounted for 33% of all industrial robot installations, followed by the electrical and electronics sector at 12%.
Despite the record shipments, the market is expected to slow down this year as companies focus on optimizing their operations with the robots they've already purchased. Jeff Burnstein, president of the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), noted that robot purchases declined by 30% in North America last year after reaching record levels in 2021 and 2022.
However, the future outlook remains promising due to ongoing trends driving automation, such as worker shortages and the need for improved operational efficiency. Burnstein anticipates a strengthening of orders in the second half of the year, reflecting the continued demand for automation solutions.
At the Automate conference in Chicago, where over 800 exhibitors are showcasing automation technologies, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a key driver of innovation. AI is increasingly integrated into robotic arms, conveyors, vision systems, and motion control systems, enhancing their capabilities and efficiency. As AI continues to evolve, it is expected to further boost sales of industrial robots in the near future, offering new opportunities for automation in manufacturing and warehousing industries.
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