| | |

Manufacturers Are Embracing AI, Reveals New Survey from Universal Robots

September 11, 2024

Manufacturers Are Embracing AI, Reveals Survey from Universal Robots

Universal Robots (UR), the Danish collaborative robot (cobot) company, recently asked 1,200 manufacturers across North America and Europe how they use technology and how they plan to invest for the future. In the survey more than 50% responded that they already harness artificial intelligence and machine learning in their production.

“AI isn’t just hype,” says Anders Billesø Beck, Vice President for Strategy & Innovation at Universal Robots. “Though it may only have become a common topic of conversation within the last two years, AI and machine learning are now critical drivers of innovation and efficiency in today’s manufacturing.”

Looking forward, 48% of manufacturers plan to further invest in AI and machine learning by 2025, indicating that these technologies will continue to play a pivotal role in the future of manufacturing.

“We’re experiencing a significant interest in physical AI. Our UR+ ecosystem keeps expanding and a key driver for this is the rapid increase in AI-applications and solutions coming from our partners, including our growing number of OEM partners, opening brand-new opportunities for customers,” says Anders Billesø Beck.

Other highlights

The survey shows the evolving importance of digitalization, with 47% of manufacturers currently using technologies like the Internet of Things, cloud computing and digital twins. These tools help manufacturers to optimize operations, reduce downtime, and save costs through simulations and predictive maintenance. This enables manufacturers to shift towards more resilient, high-mix production models that better meet market demands.

Over 50% of respondents identify improving product quality, increasing productivity and enhancing accuracy as top reasons for embracing new technologies. Additionally, 30% of manufacturers are using technology to improve working conditions, and 26% are driven by sustainability goals.

While return on investment remains the primary concern for 32% of manufacturers, other factors such as usability, in-house expertise, safety, and potential disruptions are also significant (all around 20%).

Get the full insights from the survey here.

About the survey

With a confidence rate of 99%, the survey gathered responses from 1,195 participants from seven different countries in Europe and North America. The participants represented 569 large enterprises and 278 small and medium-sized companies. They come from various industries, primarily manufacturing, healthcare, food and beverage, and automotive.

Source

Related Story

Universal Robots Shows Deep Learning-Based Part Detection for Machine Tending Cobots at IMTS

The pioneer of collaborative robotics is set to unveil a new AI-powered machine tending solution at IMTS, enabling faster batch changeovers by eliminating the need for fixtures. Additionally, the company will showcase advanced cobot applications for welding, finishing, part feeding, and laser marking.

When Universal Robots (UR) recently surveyed 1,200 manufacturers across North America and Europe about their use of technology and future investment plans, over 50% of the respondents indicated they are now using AI and machine learning in their production processes.

Related Articles


Latest Articles

  • How Schneider Electric Canada is Driving Industries into the Future 

    September 17, 2025 By Krystie Johnston  Automation, digitalization, IIoT, and AI. Data. Cybersecurity. Sustainability. These are some of the biggest trends in automation that are affecting industries in Canada today and are bound to shape their future, along with such imperatives as labour shortages, and reshoring. Schneider Electric is a leader in technology and was… Read More…

  • Why Stop at Efficiency? Build EtherCAT Networks for Maximum Reliability

    September 17, 2025 In the race toward smarter, more automated industrial operations, every microsecond counts. In response to rising demands for higher precision, speed, and synchronization across industries like robotics, packaging, and semiconductors, EtherCAT has become the standard for high-performance motion control. Its unique “on-the-fly” processing principle delivers deterministic, high-speed communication that traditional industrial Ethernet… Read More…


Featured Article

Revolutionizing Material Movement with Autonomous Mobile Robots

Revolutionizing Material Movement with Autonomous Mobile Robots

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing and logistics industries, the need for efficient and flexible material movement solutions has never been greater. Traditional methods like conveyor systems, forklifts, and manual pushcarts have served us well, but they come with limitations.

That’s why Omron is thrilled to announce the launch of their game-changing MD Series of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). Read more


Products

  • New AT-HA Grommet from icotek:

    September 18, 2025 Compact integration of 3A and 4A connectors in the IMAS-CONNECT™ system With the new AT-HA grommet, icotek is expanding its innovative IMAS-CONNECT™ adapter system with a forward-looking solution for industrial use. The AT-HA enables the integration of 3A and 4A plug inserts directly into an adapter cable entry without the need for… Read More…

  • POSITAL Precision Magnetic Encoders – Now Available with BiSS C Communications Interface

    September 17, 2025 POSITAL’s new generation of IXARC magnetic absolute rotary encoders are now available with BiSS C communications interfaces. Encoders with this interface are ideal for commutation and position feedback in BLDC servo motors. Moreover, their excellent performance characteristics, compact size (36 mm diameter, 32 mm high), and low energy requirements make these IXARC… Read More…