Understanding Industrial Robots: Types and Future Trends

The question of what are industrial robots can be addressed by looking at their types, which are based on their functionality, design, and the tasks they perform. The most common types include: 

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) 

AMRs, like the ones from MiR, are equipped with sophisticated sensors and onboard intelligence, enabling them to navigate complex environments without predefined paths. AMRs can dynamically plan their routes, recognize and avoid obstacles, and adapt to changes in their surroundings. This level of autonomy makes them ideal among the types of manufacturing robots for tasks such as material transport, goods-to-person delivery, and inventory scanning.

Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) 

AGVs are designed to follow marked lines or wires on the floor or use sensors or cameras to follow a predetermined path. These vehicles are highly effective in repetitive tasks where the environment remains constant. AGVs are frequently used across various industrial robots types for transporting raw materials to production lines or moving finished goods to storage areas. Their consistency and reliability make them a valuable asset in structured industrial settings.

Collaborative Robots (Cobots)

Cobots are designed to work safely alongside humans, making them unique among the types of industrial robots. They are often used for tasks that require flexibility and human oversight, such as quality control, machine tending, and light assembly.

Mobile Cobots

Mobile cobots combine the intelligence of AMRs with the dexterity of collaborative arms, creating one of the most advanced types of manufacturing robots. These flexible systems can autonomously move between workstations, assisting with tasks like machine tending and intralogistics—maximizing both safety and productivity.

Articulated Robots

These are the most recognizable industrial robot types, featuring rotary joints that mimic a human arm. They are highly flexible and are commonly used for welding, painting, assembly, and packaging tasks.

SCARA Robots (Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm)

SCARA robots are ideal types of manufacturing robots for high-speed, precision tasks such as pick-and-place operations, assembly, and packaging. Their rigid structure in the vertical direction allows for repeatable accuracy.

Cartesian Robots (Gantry Robots)

These robots operate on three linear axes (X, Y, and Z) and are known for their straightforward mechanics and precise movements. They are used for CNC machinery, 3D printing, and material handling.

Delta Robots

These lightweight and fast industrial robots types are built with a spider-like configuration, perfect for high-speed pick-and-place tasks in industries like food, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.

Industrial robots are not confined to a single sector; their versatility makes them valuable assets in numerous fields, and different industrial robot types are tailored to fit specific needs across industries:

• Automotive: Various types of industrial robots perform welding, painting, assembly, and inspection, significantly increasing production speed and quality.

• Electronics: Precision is critical in this industry, where specific types of manufacturing robots handle tasks like assembling tiny components, testing, and packaging.

• Healthcare: In the medical field, industrial robots types assist in surgery, handle delicate materials, and support logistics within healthcare facilities.

• Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG): From packaging to palletizing, types of industrial robots streamline production lines, improving efficiency and responsiveness to market demands.

• Logistics & 3PL: The use of industrial robot types enhances warehousing operations, inventory management, and order fulfillment processes—boosting speed and accuracy.

In conclusion, as the question of what are industrial robots continues to evolve with new capabilities and applications, various types of industrial robots are transforming the landscape of manufacturing and production globally. Learn how AMRs from MiR can help you work smarter within your industry.

What are the main types of industrial robots?

The main types of industrial robots include articulated robots, SCARA robots, Cartesian robots, delta robots, collaborative robots (cobots), and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). Each type is designed for specific tasks and operational environments.

How do industrial robot types differ from each other?

Industrial robot types differ based on their structure, degree of freedom, motion range, and intended application. For example, articulated robots offer high flexibility, while SCARA robots are optimized for speed and precision in horizontal tasks.

What are types of manufacturing robots commonly used today?

Common types of manufacturing robots include AMRs, AGVs, articulated robots, and mobile cobots. These robots perform tasks like material transport, assembly, welding, and quality inspection across various industries.

Where are industrial robots types typically used?

Industrial robots types are widely used in automotive, electronics, healthcare, FMCG, and logistics sectors. Each industry uses specific robots tailored to their operational demands and efficiency goals.

How can mobile cobots benefit manufacturing operations?

Mobile cobots combine the mobility of AMRs with the precision of cobots, allowing them to autonomously move between stations and assist in tasks like machine tending and intralogistics—enhancing both safety and productivity.