NEWSBYTE Robotics as a service (RaaS) is becoming an increasingly popular model for supplying mobile robots to operators in the Logistics sector. That’s according to a report from market intelligence provider IDTechEx.
Similar to the way other as-a-service models operate, RaaS customers get the benefits of robotic automation by leasing robots and accessing a cloud-based subscription service, rather than by purchasing the equipment outright.
This means they have access to the latest technology and avoids them being left with a legacy of outmoded, depreciating devices.
They also benefit from the scalability of the solution, helping them cope with the peaks and troughs of seasonal or project-based demand.
The new report, Mobile Robotics in Logistics, Warehousing, and Delivery 2022-2042, finds that up to eight percent of mobile robotics revenues now come from RaaS solutions, according to interviews carried out by the company.
“Like all X-as-a-Service models, the billing of RaaS can be based on a monthly subscription or a pay-as-you-go model,” says the report. “In this case, customers can utilise the service without investing too much at the beginning and will have fewer losses if they stop operating the mobile robotic system.”
IDTechEx reveals that devices like automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) have the biggest share of the mobile robotics market in Logistics.
Adopting a RaaS model allows customers to start or end their use of mobile robotic systems at any time as needed. It also allows them to change products quickly – for example, by switching from shelf-to-person, grid-based machines to carton-to-person case-picking robots.
