There is a spirit of optimism in intralogistics. A recent study by Unitechnik Systems GmbH shows that three out of four companies want to invest in robotics in the coming years. Increasing pressure to improve efficiency, a growing shortage of skilled workers, and the desire for future-proof logistics processes are often the reasons behind this. But the desire for automation also raises a key question: How can robotic systems be integrated in such a way that they not only function, but also create real added value?
At the end of 2024, Unitechnik surveyed over 150 specialists and managers from various industries about the role of robotics in intralogistics. The study paints a clear picture: around 75 percent of participants plan to invest in robot-assisted systems in the future. In addition to the status quo, the survey also asked about expectations, potential, and challenges associated with the use of robotics solutions for internal material flow. In addition to classic gantry or articulated arm robots, driverless transport systems were also included in the survey.
Where robotics makes the biggest impact
The demand for robot-assisted solutions is particularly high in areas where manual tasks are time-consuming, physically demanding, or difficult to plan. Many companies see great potential in order picking in particular: 42 percent of those surveyed plan to make greater use of robotics in this area in the future. In addition to the classic areas of palletizing and depalletizing, automatic truck loading is increasingly coming into focus as a new field of application. The fact that robotic solutions are becoming established is not only due to the technical maturity of the systems. Rather, several developments are coming together, such as increasing delivery time requirements, a growing variety of products in the range, and a growing shortage of personnel. Robots take on tasks that can be clearly described, must be repeated reliably, and relieve human workers of tasks such as lifting, precise gripping, or navigation. Systems that can adapt flexibly to changes are particularly in demand.
Currently, most robotics systems are used for material transport in logistics centers and in production. This trend will continue to grow in the future thanks to further investments. In many cases, forklifts can be replaced by driverless transport systems without the need for major conversion work.
Technology beats brand awareness
The requirements for robotics systems show that the evaluation is not primarily based on brand names or external features. Aspects such as visual design played a minor role for the respondents. Instead, the decisive factors were ease of configuration (78 percent), long-term updateability (65 percent), and robust construction (61 percent). Established suppliers are thus in direct competition with new market entrants, including companies from China.
Users expect robotic systems to be able to adapt quickly and flexibly to changing tasks using state-of-the-art technologies. Characteristics such as learning ability through artificial intelligence (76 percent), camera-based control (72 percent), autonomy (47 percent), and collaboration capability (34 percent) were mentioned particularly frequently.
The pitfalls of integration
Despite all the advantages, many companies are hesitant to use robotic systems. Around two-thirds cite high investment costs as the biggest obstacle. Added to this are technical and organizational challenges such as complex interfaces, security requirements, and acceptance issues within the team. Introducing a robotics system is not an isolated project. It involves analyzing processes, networking systems, and integrating the new technology into operations. The transitions between robotics, conveyor technology, and warehouse management are particularly critical. If disruptions occur here, the expected benefits will not materialize. Furthermore, robots do not operate in a static environment. They must adapt to changing product sizes, transport routes, and priorities. This requires technically and organizationally configurable and well-thought-out solutions. It is crucial that companies rely on partners who not only supply technology but also accompany the entire change process.
The system integrator as the key to success
When selecting the right partner for a robotics project, a clear picture emerges: most companies prefer specialized system integrators, followed by general contractors for the entire plant. Only a few rely directly on robot manufacturers. The high complexity of integration is a decisive factor here. Robots must be integrated into existing material flows, warehouse management systems, and IT structures. This is precisely where the success of a project is decided. The requirements for partners in robotics projects are correspondingly high. Companies expect more than just technology. They want providers who understand processes, have a firm grasp of interfaces, and support their customers throughout all project phases. In addition to the high proportion of respondents who want good value for money (74 percent), the following aspects are particularly important. According to the study, 69 percent of respondents attach particular importance to sound planning expertise in logistics and material flow. The ability to precisely analyze individual requirements and develop suitable solutions in the context of the overall logistics system is important. Concrete ideas about the project process are formulated, with 45 percent wanting a fixed contact person for the project and 44 percent of respondents wanting to ensure go-live with comprehensive testing. After implementation, respondents expect good support (53 percent), long-term further development of the system (38 percent), and 24/7 service (26 percent).
Competence matters: what counts in practice
Successful projects begin with a thorough analysis, clearly defined goals, and realistic expectations in terms of benefits and costs. Robotics solutions are particularly effective when they are designed as part of a holistic material flow concept. Providers who combine technology with planning expertise avoid isolated solutions and create integrated systems. A software architecture that centrally controls all components and can be flexibly expanded is helpful in this regard. One example is the UniWare warehouse management system from Unitechnik, which controls pick-and-place robots, driverless transport systems, and shuttle warehouses. Practical experience shows how important clearly defined interfaces, scalability, and long-term support are, especially for a technology that is constantly evolving. Unitechnik supports its customers even after commissioning. Modular extensions allow new requirements to be implemented and adaptations to changing market conditions to be made.
Robotics is not a goal, but a path
Robotics in intralogistics has long been more than just a trend. It is developing into a strategic response to increasing demands for efficiency and flexibility, as well as to the shortage of skilled workers. The results of the Unitechnik study show that many companies are prepared to go down this path, but at the same time are well aware of the stumbling blocks. Anyone who wants to integrate robot-assisted systems should invest not only in technology, but also in expertise. It is crucial to think about processes holistically, assess challenges realistically, and know that you have the right partner at your side. Ultimately, it is not the technology alone that is decisive, but its interaction with people, infrastructure, and the company's goals.
The free white paper containing all study results and practical recommendations can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.en.unitechnik.com/logistic-systems/technologies/robotics.html.
