Trends in Robotics Management and Business Automation

Abstract

This chapter presents recently growing trends in robotic management and business automation, which have been caused in part by the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2022). The implementation of different types of robots for improving company efficiency, flexibility, productivity, and safety, and for decreasing production rejection, is also presented. The showcased robots employ artificial intelligence alongside devices such as sensors, are easy to program and install, and comply with industry 4.0 criteria. Robot networks, such as manipulators, autonomous mobile robots, and drone robots, are now applied in many sectors of the economy, such as manufacturing, food and beverage, textiles, wood and plastics, healthcare, and other industries. This leads to a new business model, which facilitates product diversification. The trends corresponding to each type of robot are shown, as well as approaches and techniques to identify what is most appropriate for any given robotic needs. In addition, several suggestions are presented to business engineers and entrepreneurs on how to integrate robots for better production and on acquisition and management decisions.