Asia's robotics transformation: growth, alliances and the growing influence on logistics in Europe

From Asia to Europe: Robotics as an engine for new supply chains

The robotics industry in Asia is experiencing a remarkable period of growth, characterized by strong expansion and increasing consolidation. This development is manifested in numerous strategic partnerships and ambitious expansion strategies that will impact not only the Asian market but also, increasingly, the European market. The dynamics of this industry are so powerful that they promise far-reaching changes in global supply chains, production processes, and even our daily lives.

Strategic alliances as an engine of progress

A particularly revealing example of this development is the strategic alliance between Spingence, an emerging Taiwanese artificial intelligence (AI) startup, and ForceSteed Robotics (FSR). This partnership was established to accelerate the digital transformation of Japanese industries. Japan, a nation with a long tradition in robotics and automation, faces new challenges in the digital age. An aging population and a shortage of skilled workers make the use of advanced technologies essential to maintaining and increasing competitiveness.

The alliance between Spingence and FSR aims to meet the growing demand for on-premises computing in Japan. On-premises computing, meaning data processing directly on-site rather than in the cloud, is gaining increasing importance in industry. This is primarily due to its advantages in terms of data security, low latency, and the need to keep sensitive data within the company. Particularly in sectors like manufacturing, where real-time data analysis and rapid response times are crucial, on-premises computing offers significant benefits.

Spincence brings its expertise in artificial intelligence to this partnership, particularly in the area of ​​Edge AI. Edge AI refers to the processing of AI algorithms directly at the data source, i.e., at the "edge" of the network. This enables faster data processing, lower bandwidth requirements, and greater data security, as sensitive data does not need to be transferred to the cloud. FSR, on the other hand, has extensive experience in robotics and automation for Japanese industries. By combining their respective expertise, Spincence and FSR can offer tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of Japanese companies and help them successfully overcome the challenges of digital transformation.

Market expansion as a global trend

Another important aspect of current developments in the robotics industry is the increasing market expansion of Asian companies into Europe. In particular, Chinese and Indian manufacturers of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), such as Addverb, Hai Robotics, and Geek+, are intensifying their activities on the European continent. This expansion is not a coincidence, but rather a logical consequence of the global dynamics in robotics and automation.

China and India have become true powerhouses of robotics in recent years. This is due to a combination of factors, including massive government investment in research and development, a growing pool of highly skilled engineers and technicians, a strong manufacturing industry, and a huge domestic market. These factors have enabled Chinese and Indian companies to develop innovative and cost-effective robotics solutions that are now internationally competitive.

For these companies, expanding into Europe is a strategic step to tap into new markets and strengthen their global presence. Europe is an attractive market for robotics solutions, as many European countries also face challenges such as skills shortages, rising labor costs, and the need for more efficient production processes. Furthermore, Europe boasts a strong industrial base and a long tradition of embracing technological innovation.

AMR technology, which companies like Addverb, Hai Robotics, and Geek+ specialize in, is particularly relevant to the European market. AMRs are flexible, versatile, and relatively easy-to-implement robots that can be used in a wide variety of applications, from warehouse logistics and material handling in factories to supporting employees in production. Compared to traditional, fixed automation systems, AMRs offer greater flexibility and scalability, making them especially attractive for companies that want to expand their automation gradually and according to their needs.

Synergies through partnerships: A win-win for all involved

The robotics industry is a field where partnerships and collaborations play a crucial role. The complexity of the technology and the diversity of its applications often necessitate the pooling of expertise and resources to offer innovative and comprehensive solutions. This is particularly evident in the strategic partnerships that the logistics group Körber has entered into with Asian robotics manufacturers.

Körber, a globally operating technology company specializing in logistics and supply chain solutions, recognized the importance of robotics for the future of logistics early on. To expand its solution portfolio and offer its customers even more comprehensive and efficient solutions, Körber has entered into strategic partnerships with Hai Robotics and Geek+.

The partnership with Hai Robotics, a leading Chinese manufacturer of warehouse and mobile robots, focuses in particular on integrating Hai Robotics' autonomous case handling (ACR) robots into Körber's solution portfolio. ACR systems are an innovative form of warehouse automation in which robots retrieve individual containers (cases) from shelves and transport them to picking stations or other locations within the warehouse. This technology enables high-density storage and efficient order picking, especially in e-commerce and fulfillment centers where a large number of items need to be picked and shipped quickly.

By integrating Hai Robotics' ACR systems, Körber can offer its customers an even broader range of automation solutions, from traditional conveyor systems to state-of-the-art robotics solutions. This enables Körber to configure the optimal solution for each customer, tailored to their specific needs and requirements.

The global partnership with Geek+, another leading provider of AMR solutions from China, aims to provide companies worldwide with improved access to AMR technologies. Geek+ is known for its broad range of AMR solutions that can be used in various industries and applications. Through the collaboration with Körber, Geek+ can expand its global reach and make its AMR technologies available to an even wider customer base. At the same time, Körber benefits from Geek+'s expertise and innovative technology, enabling it to offer its customers even more flexible and intelligent logistics solutions.

These partnerships are examples of win-win situations where both sides benefit from the collaboration. Körber strengthens its position as a leading provider of logistics solutions and expands its technology portfolio, while Hai Robotics and Geek+ can increase their global presence and bring their technologies to new markets. Ultimately, customers also benefit from these partnerships, gaining access to more comprehensive, efficient, and innovative logistics solutions.

Technological innovation as a driving force

Behind all these developments lies the unstoppable force of technological innovation. The robotics industry is a field that is evolving at a rapid pace. New technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, and sensor technology are constantly opening up new possibilities and applications for robots.

The establishment of Spincence's new Edge AI division and the launch of its Edgestar and Visionstar products are a clear example of this trend. Spincence, originally known for its expertise in factory defect detection, is now expanding its offerings in artificial intelligence and edge computing to serve a variety of new industries and applications.

Edge AI, as previously mentioned, is a key technology for the future of robotics and automation. The ability to process AI algorithms directly at the data source enables robots to operate more intelligently, autonomously, and responsively. This is particularly important in applications requiring real-time data analysis and rapid decision-making, such as autonomous vehicles, manufacturing robotics, and intelligent monitoring systems.

Spincence's Edgestar and Visionstar products are specifically tailored to the needs of various industries that can benefit from edge AI. Edgestar, for example, could be a platform for edge computing applications, enabling companies to deploy and run their own AI models on edge devices. Visionstar could focus on computer vision applications that allow robots to visually capture and interpret their environment to perform tasks such as object detection, navigation, and quality control.

Spincence's expansion into new markets such as urban management, traffic monitoring and healthcare demonstrates the broad application potential of edge AI technology.

Urban Management

In increasingly intelligent and interconnected cities, edge AI can play a crucial role. Smart sensors and cameras equipped with edge AI processors can capture and analyze vast amounts of data in real time to make urban life more efficient and livable. Examples include optimizing traffic flow, improving public safety, efficiently managing energy supply, and monitoring environmental quality. Edge AI enables this data to be processed directly on-site, allowing for rapid responses to changes and events without relying on a central cloud infrastructure.

Traffic monitoring

Traffic in cities and metropolitan areas is a constant challenge. Congestion, accidents, and environmental pollution are problems that can be solved or at least mitigated by intelligent traffic management systems. Edge AI can be used in traffic monitoring to analyze traffic data in real time, recognize traffic patterns, predict congestion, and control adaptive traffic guidance systems. Smart cameras and sensors installed at intersections and along roads can collect traffic data and analyze it with edge AI algorithms to optimize traffic flow and increase safety.

Healthcare

Healthcare is another area where edge AI holds great potential. In hospitals and care facilities, edge AI-based systems can be used to monitor patients, analyze medical images, support diagnoses, and create personalized treatment plans. For example, smart sensors worn on patients' bodies could continuously monitor vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration, automatically triggering alarms in case of abnormalities. In medical imaging, edge AI can be used to analyze X-rays, CT scans, and MRI images more quickly and accurately, assisting physicians in making diagnoses. Edge AI is also playing an increasingly important role in robotics for surgery and rehabilitation, making robots more intelligent and autonomous.

The launch of Edgestar and Visionstar underscores Spincence's commitment to serving diverse industries with advanced edge AI technologies. These products represent not only technological innovations but also strategic moves that enable Spincence to enter new markets and accelerate its growth.

Advantages of the strategic partnership between Körber and Hai Robotics in detail

The strategic partnership between Körber and Hai Robotics is a prime example of how companies can strengthen their market position and offer added value to their customers through collaboration. The advantages of this partnership are manifold and benefit both companies and their customers.

Expanded solution portfolio

For Körber, the most obvious benefit of the partnership is the expansion of its solutions portfolio. By integrating Hai Robotics' ACR products, Körber can now offer its customers an even more comprehensive range of automation solutions. This is particularly important in a constantly evolving market where customers are increasingly seeking integrated solutions that cover various aspects of logistics and supply chain management. With Hai Robotics' ACR systems, Körber can now also offer state-of-the-art robotics solutions that were not previously part of its portfolio. This gives Körber a competitive edge and enables the company to reach new customer groups and deepen existing customer relationships.

Increased efficiency and storage density

A key advantage of Hai Robotics' ACR systems is their ability to significantly increase efficiency and storage density in warehouses and fulfillment centers. Companies that adopt ACR technology can automate their warehouses in a very short time. Implementing an ACR system is typically faster and less complex than installing traditional, fixed automation systems. This allows companies to respond quickly to changing market conditions and increasing demands.

Furthermore, ACR systems can increase warehouse efficiency three to four times. This is achieved through the automated and optimized movement of containers within the warehouse. ACR robots operate precisely and tirelessly, without breaks or errors. They can be used around the clock, thus contributing to a significant increase in throughput and productivity in the warehouse.

Another crucial advantage of ACR technology is the significant increase in storage density. ACR systems enable storage density to be increased by 80% to 400%. This is achieved through the vertical storage of containers and optimized space utilization. ACR robots can store and retrieve containers from racks that extend to several meters in height. This ensures optimal use of available warehouse space and significantly increases storage capacity. This is particularly valuable in densely populated areas and warehouses where space is limited and expensive.

Strengthening market position

Through its strategic partnership with Hai Robotics, Körber strengthens its position as a leading integrator of robotic systems. The integration of ACR technology into Körber's solution portfolio underscores the company's innovative strength and commitment to consistently offering its customers the best and most advanced solutions. In a highly competitive market, it is crucial to differentiate oneself from the competition through innovation and technological leadership. The partnership with Hai Robotics will ensure that Körber continues to play a leading role in logistics automation in the future.

Technological differentiation

Hai Robotics' technology stands out positively from other solutions on the market. ACR systems are a relatively new and innovative form of warehouse automation, characterized by their flexibility, scalability, and efficiency. Compared to traditional warehouse automation systems such as stacker cranes or conveyor technology, ACR systems offer greater flexibility and adaptability to changing requirements. They can be adapted relatively easily to new warehouse layouts and process flows and are also attractive to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that want to expand their automation gradually. The technological differentiation of Hai Robotics' ACR systems complements the Körber portfolio effectively, enabling Körber to offer its customers even more diverse and customized solutions.

Cross-industry applicability

Another advantage of Hai Robotics' ACR technology is its cross-industry applicability. Hai Robotics solutions are already used in various sectors, including 3PL (Third-Party Logistics), fashion, e-commerce, electronics, energy, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals. This broad applicability demonstrates that ACR technology is not limited to specific industries or applications but can be used in a wide variety of logistics and production environments. For Körber, this opens up new opportunities in diverse market segments and enables the company to further diversify and grow its business. For example, Körber can now also serve customers in the fashion industry, electronics retail, and pharmaceuticals with state-of-the-art robotics solutions specifically tailored to their needs.

Strategic partnerships in robotics: A successful model for innovation

The robotics industry in Asia is a dynamic and innovation-driven field that is fundamentally changing the global landscape of automation and logistics. Strategic partnerships, market expansion, and technological innovations are the driving forces behind this development. Companies such as Spincence, ForceSteed Robotics, Hai Robotics, Geek+, and Körber play a key role in this process and are actively shaping the future of robotics.

Strategic alliances enable companies to pool their expertise and jointly develop innovative solutions that meet the specific needs of different industries and markets. The market expansion of Asian companies into Europe demonstrates the growing global competitiveness of the Asian robotics industry and the demand of European companies for advanced automation solutions. Technological innovations such as Edge AI are constantly opening up new possibilities and applications for robots and driving the further development of the industry.

The partnership between Körber and Hai Robotics is an exemplary model of successful collaboration in the robotics industry. It demonstrates how companies can develop innovative solutions and offer added value to their customers by combining their strengths and expertise. This partnership is an important step towards a more automated, efficient, and flexible logistics system of the future.

The robotics industry will continue to develop rapidly in the coming years. We can expect artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other related technologies to play an even greater role. Robots will become more intelligent, autonomous, and versatile, and will be used in more and more areas of our lives. The Asian robotics industry will continue to play a leading role in this development and significantly shape global trends in robotics and automation. The dynamism we are currently witnessing in the industry is just the beginning of a profound transformation that will shape our economy and society in the decades to come.

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