R&D fuels development of new robotic solutions: Satish Shukla

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R&D fuels development of new robotic solutions: Satish Shukla

R&D fuels development of new robotic solutions: Satish Shukla

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Sep 28,24

In this interview with Rakesh Rao, Satish Shukla, Co-founder of Addverb, highlights the importance of human-robot collaboration to deliver unique automation solutions for the factories of the future.

R&D fuels development of new robotic solutions: Satish Shukla

The Reliance-backed Addverb Technologies is known for offering cutting edge robotic products to enhance efficiencies & productivity in warehouses & factories. The company is preparing for the future by focusing on advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, and 5G, says Satish Shukla, who co-founded Addverb in June 2016 with a vision of touching lives by pioneering human-robot collaboration. Speaking to Rakesh Rao, Satish Shukla emphasises on the importance of R&D to develop unique automation solutions for the factories of the future.

How is Addverb serving the needs of manufacturing sector?

At Addverb, we focus on providing automation solutions tailored to meet diverse operational needs. Our portfolio includes various types of robots, such as mobile robots, sorting robots, and multi-carton picking robots, designed to enhance warehouse and manufacturing operations. We use AI, machine learning, and IIoT to improve performance and efficiency. Our goal is to offer adaptable and scalable solutions that support different industries, including manufacturing and logistics. We also strive to keep our solutions flexible and responsive to changing demands, ensuring that we can help our clients stay competitive and efficient.

How critical is R&D for robot makers for increasing their sales?

R&D is crucial for driving innovation and maintaining competitive advantage in robotics. It fuels the development of new technologies and solutions, such as customised automation systems and modular robotics, which cater to evolving industry needs. Investing in R&D allows us to integrate advanced technologies like AI, IoT, and 5G into our robots, enhancing their capabilities and adaptability. This ongoing innovation not only improves our product offerings but also boosts customer satisfaction and market adoption, directly impacting our sales and market position.

What is the present status of adoption of automation and robotics in India?

Automation and robotics adoption in India is on the rise, particularly in manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare sectors. The push towards Industry 4.0 and the Indian government's Make in India initiative are key drivers. Increased demand for precision, scalability, and quality, coupled with a shortage of skilled labour, are accelerating the shift towards automation. While challenges like high initial costs and technical expertise gaps exist, sectors such as automotive, e-commerce, and pharmaceuticals are increasingly leveraging robotics to stay competitive both domestically and globally.

How are emerging technologies like AI, IoT, machine learning and 5G influencing development of robots?

Emerging technologies are transforming robotic solutions by enhancing their intelligence, connectivity, and adaptability. AI and machine learning enable robots to perform complex tasks and learn from data, improving efficiency and reducing human intervention. IoT facilitates seamless integration and real-time data sharing between robots and other systems, while 5G ensures rapid and reliable communication, crucial for dynamic environments. Together, these technologies make robots more autonomous, responsive, and capable of handling diverse industrial challenges.

How important is it to ensure adequate machine safety features in robots?

Ensuring machine safety in robots is paramount to preventing accidents, protecting human workers, and complying with safety standards. With the increasing integration of robots in industries, especially collaborative robots (cobots) that work alongside humans, robust safety features are essential. Safety measures include sensors, emergency stop systems, and fail-safes that ensure the robot ceases operation if it detects human presence or anomalies in performance.

Moreover, regulatory compliance with safety standards such as ISO 10218 and ISO/TS 15066 for robot safety ensures that manufacturers adhere to strict guidelines. These standards are crucial not only for protecting the workforce but also for building customer trust and reducing liability risks. Safety in robotic systems also plays a key role in ensuring smooth operations, as any safety incident can result in operational downtime and financial losses. In an era where robots are integral to production lines, safety features are critical to their adoption and long-term success.

While large companies are investing in robotics solutions in India, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are hesitant (because of lack of funding and technical know-how). Do you serve SME manufacturers?

Yes, Addverb serves SME manufacturers by offering scalable and cost-effective automation solutions. We understand the financial and technical constraints SMEs face, so we provide modular robotics systems that can be customised to fit their specific needs. Our flexible financing options and comprehensive support, including training and user-friendly interfaces, help bridge the knowledge gap and reduce the burden of high initial costs. By focusing on productivity and efficiency, we enable SMEs to benefit from automation without extensive technical know-how or large capital investments.

How are you managing your supply chain efficiently amid uncertainty in the market?

To navigate market uncertainties, Addverb employs advanced digital tools and real-time analytics for supply chain management. We use AI for demand forecasting and inventory management, ensuring resilience against disruptions. By diversifying our supplier base and leveraging IoT for supply chain monitoring, we maintain control and adaptability. Regular assessments and strong supplier partnerships help us manage risks and optimise operations, allowing us to respond effectively to changes in demand and supply chain dynamics.

How will the future shopfloor look like?

The future shopfloor will be characterised by smart, self-sufficient environments where AI, IoT, and 5G technologies are seamlessly integrated. Robots and cobots will work efficiently alongside humans, adapting to real-time data and optimising processes. Smart factories will feature minimal human interaction, relying on AI-driven decision-making and digital twins to simulate and enhance operations. 5G connectivity will enable faster, more flexible manufacturing, leading to improved safety, productivity, and product quality.

How is Addverb gearing up to meet the requirements of the factories of the future?

We are preparing for the future by focusing on advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, and 5G. Our goal is to develop flexible and scalable solutions that can integrate well with future factory environments. We are committed to continuous innovation and collaboration with technology partners to ensure our solutions meet the evolving needs of modern industrial facilities.