Despite a challenging 2024 for the global machinery industry, where high interest rates, elevated inventory levels, and sluggish demand have impacted automation component sales, there are promising opportunities in emerging technologies. Samantha Mou, Research Analyst at Interact Analysis, highlights two key areas driving new demand for motion control products: smart conveyance technology and machine-integrated robots.
A surge in demand
Smart conveyance technology, which uses multi-carrier systems for precise movement, has witnessed significant growth, especially in linear systems. “The market for linear systems has more than doubled in the last three years, with revenue rising from $237 million in 2020 to $488 million in 2023,” Mou said. “By 2029, we expect sales to reach over $1.1 billion, driven by industries like battery manufacturing and electronics, particularly in Asia.”
While food, pharmaceuticals, and packaging initially led the adoption of smart conveyance systems, there has been a noticeable shift towards new applications and regional markets. Mou notes a strong uptick in demand from the Asia-Pacific region, fuelled by increasing interest from automotive manufacturers and battery producers. “It’s an exciting time for the smart conveyance sector, as new entrants nearly doubled in 2023 alone,” she explained. “Many are looking to capture market share with innovative solutions, particularly in Asia, China, Japan, and Europe.”
Large automation players like Rockwell and Siemens are also positioning themselves to benefit from this trend. “Rather than developing full conveyance systems, they’re strategically partnering with companies like Planar Motor, supplying key components like servo drives and controllers,” Mou continued. “These partnerships allow major vendors to participate in the growing market while enhancing the capabilities of specialized conveyance providers.”
A path to simplified automation
The market for machine-integrated robots, which operate through a unified control platform with the machinery they support, is also experiencing rapid growth. “In 2023, we saw shipments of around 20,000 machine-integrated robots, with a projected annual growth rate of 14.6% until 2029,” Mou said. “Though smaller than the broader industrial robot market, machine-integrated robots are gaining traction due to their ease of use and flexibility.”
The growing shortage of skilled engineers is a primary driver for these solutions. “By integrating robot control with machine control systems, we reduce the complexity of programming and managing robots,” Mou explained. “This unified approach means machine operators don’t need advanced robotics expertise, making it easier for companies to deploy automation.”
A push towards in-house robot manufacturing is also accelerating the adoption of machine-integrated robots. “OEMs are increasingly building their own robots to reduce costs and develop customized solutions,” Mou noted. “With integrated platforms from companies like Rockwell and Siemens, machine builders can create robots that seamlessly interact with their machines without relying on separate programming environments.”
Strategic partnerships and expanding solutions
New partnerships and product launches continue to shape the machine-integrated robot market. Rockwell Automation, for instance, partnered with autonox Robotics and Atom Robot, enabling their robot arms to integrate directly with Rockwell PLCs. Similarly, Siemens has expanded its reach by collaborating with Universal Robots and Jaka to offer seamless control within its systems.
According to Mou, these partnerships are reshaping the landscape: “As robot manufacturers, machine builders, and motion control suppliers collaborate, they’re creating an ecosystem that simplifies deployment and enhances flexibility, aligning with the manufacturing industry’s push for digitalization.”
While current economic headwinds may challenge the machinery sector, Mou is optimistic about the future. “The surging demand for smart conveyance systems and machine-integrated robots represents a strong market for motion control suppliers,” she concluded. “With a strategic focus on digitalization, flexibility, and ease of use, companies with innovative products and partnerships will be well-positioned to capitalize on the next growth cycle as demand picks up.”
These trends point to a promising horizon for motion control, even in an uncertain economic climate. For companies willing to innovate and collaborate, the smart conveyance and machine-integrated robot markets offer a pathway to resilient growth and technological advancement.
