// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM

Robotics

The field of engineering and technology that deals with the design, construction, operation, and application of robots.

Robotics — illustration from Wikipedia
Image via Wikipedia

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

Robotics is the interdisciplinary field encompassing the design, construction, operation, and application of robots, integrating mechanical engineering, electronics, computer science, and artificial intelligence to automate tasks in manufacturing, logistics, and other industries.

BACKGROUND

The Fourth Industrial Revolution, also known as 4IR, Industry 4.0 or the Intelligence Age, is a neologism describing rapid technological advancement in the 21st century. It follows the Third Industrial Revolution. The term was popularized in 2016 by Klaus Schwab, the World Economic Forum founder and former executive chairman, who asserts that these developments represent a significant shift in industrial capitalism.

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SYNONYMS & ALIASES

  • Robot technology
  • Automation science
  • Robot engineering

USAGE NOTE

A broad term covering the entire scope of robot development and deployment.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Robotics.

  • ABB

    A global technology company that develops and manufactures industrial robots, collaborative robots (cobots), and complete robotic automation solutions for various industries, including automotive, electronics, and logistics.

  • Fanuc

    A leading global manufacturer of factory automation products, including industrial robots, CNC systems, and factory automation solutions that enable advanced manufacturing processes and digital integration.

  • KUKA

    A world-leading supplier of industrial robots and complete automation systems, specializing in solutions for the automotive, electronics, and general industry sectors, including collaborative robotics and mobile robotics.

  • Universal Robots

    A pioneer and market leader in the development and manufacturing of collaborative robots (cobots), designed to work alongside humans in manufacturing environments, enhancing productivity and flexibility.

  • Yaskawa Electric Corporation

    A major global player in motion control, robotics (Motoman robots), and system engineering, providing advanced automation solutions and industrial robots for diverse manufacturing applications.

  • NVIDIA

    While not a direct robot manufacturer, NVIDIA develops critical AI platforms, software, and simulation tools (e.g., Isaac Sim) that power the intelligence, perception, and digital twin capabilities of next-generation robots in manufacturing and logistics.

  • Locus Robotics

    Specializes in autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for fulfillment and warehouse automation, which are integral to modern manufacturing logistics, material handling, and supply chain operations.

  • Boston Dynamics

    Known for developing advanced mobile robots, including legged and wheeled platforms. Their robots are increasingly deployed in logistics and industrial settings for tasks like material handling and inspection, crucial for evolving manufacturing automation.

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