Robotic Gripping System Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (Electric Grippers, Pneumatic Grippers, Vacuum Grippers/Suction Cups and Magnetic Grippers), By Application (Food and Beverage, Pharmaceuticals, Industrial Machinery, Logistics and Others) and Regional Forecast to 2032

Updated On: 29 April 2024

ROBOTIC GRIPPING SYSTEM MARKET REPORT OVERVIEW

global robotic gripping system market size was USD 1099 million in 2022 and market is projected to touch USD 1806 million by 2029 at CAGR 7.2% during the forecast period.

A vital component of industrial robotics, the robot gripper serves as the endpoint tool for material handling tasks such as grasping, holding, and transporting objects. Also referred to as end-of-arm tooling, these grippers facilitate material manipulation within manufacturing processes. With a variety of styles and sizes available, they offer versatility to suit different applications, whether attached to a robotic arm or integrated into fixed automation systems. Among the various types are parallel grippers, angular grippers, and toggle grippers, each serving specific functions tailored to different operational needs.

An essential aspect of designing robotic production cells is the selection and design of grippers. Their effectiveness directly impacts the efficiency and capabilities of automated processes. Grippers play a pivotal role in enhancing productivity by enabling robots to handle diverse tasks with precision and reliability. Whether in automotive assembly lines or warehouse logistics, the choice of gripper type and configuration is paramount for streamlining operations and maximizing output. Thus, understanding the functionalities and applications of various gripper types becomes imperative for engineers and manufacturers aiming to leverage automation effectively in their industrial setups.

COVID-19 Impact: Pandemic has driven the adoption of automation solutions and propelled the market

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the market experiencing lower-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden market growth reflected by the rise in CAGR is attributable to market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The surge in automation demand arises from requirements for social distancing, minimized human interaction, and operational robustness amidst the pandemic. This drive has led to the widespread adoption of automation solutions. Within this context, robotic gripper systems have emerged as crucial facilitators, ensuring uninterrupted production while safeguarding worker well-being. Their significance lies in their ability to maintain operational continuity, effectively mitigating disruptions posed by health and safety measures. As such, these systems represent a pivotal component in the modernization of industrial processes, addressing both productivity concerns and the imperative for workplace safety in the face of evolving challenges.

LATEST TRENDS

"Integration of advanced sensors is expected to drive the market"

Integration of advanced sensors is becoming increasingly prevalent in robotic gripper systems, encompassing a range of technologies including force sensors, tactile sensors, and vision systems. These sensor innovations serve to augment gripping precision, bolster adaptability to variations in objects, and provide real-time feedback mechanisms, ultimately enhancing overall performance. By leveraging force sensors, these gripper systems can gauge the amount of pressure exerted during grasping, ensuring delicate handling of objects while maintaining a secure grip. Tactile sensors enable the detection of surface textures and contours, allowing for more nuanced interactions with objects of diverse shapes and materials. Meanwhile, vision systems facilitate object recognition and tracking, enabling the gripper to swiftly adapt its grasping strategy based on real-time visual cues. The integration of these advanced sensors represents a significant advancement in robotic gripper technology, promising heightened efficiency and versatility in various industrial applications.

ROBOTIC GRIPPING SYSTEM MARKET SEGMENTATION

• By Type

Based on type the global market can be categorized into Electric Grippers, Pneumatic Grippers, Vacuum Grippers/Suction Cups and Magnetic Grippers.

Electric Grippers: Electric grippers utilize electric motors to control gripping, offering precision and adjustable force for handling delicate objects. Renowned for energy efficiency, they integrate seamlessly with robotic systems, finding applications in electronics, automotive, and food processing industries. Demand is rising with increased industrial automation adoption, necessitating agile manufacturing processes.

Pneumatic Grippers: Pneumatic grippers utilize compressed air for gripping force, prized for their rapid and robust capabilities, ideal for high-speed applications. Commonly favoured in industrial settings for quick, repetitive tasks, they see wide use in manufacturing, packaging, and assembly industries. Their simplicity and strong grip make them popular for automation across various applications.

Vacuum Grippers/Suction Cups: Vacuum grippers, or suction cups, employ vacuum pressure to grasp and lift objects, particularly flat or non-porous items such as glass and plastic. Praised for gentle handling and quick attachment/release, they're prevalent in logistics, warehousing, and material handling. With e-commerce growth, demand for vacuum grippers rises for efficient robotic picking and packing solutions.

Magnetic Grippers: Magnetic grippers utilize magnetic forces to grip and secure ferromagnetic objects such as steel and iron, offering maintenance-free operation. Ideal for environments with extreme temperatures or liquids, they securely hold objects without continuous power. Increasingly employed in metalworking, automotive, and recycling industries, magnetic grippers provide a reliable alternative where traditional grippers or vacuum systems are impractical.

• By Application

Based on application the global market can be categorized into Food and Beverage, Pharmaceuticals, Industrial Machinery, Logistics and Others.

Food and Beverage: Robotic gripping systems are essential in the food and beverage industry for handling and processing products such as food items, bottles, and containers. These grippers must adhere to strict hygiene and safety standards to maintain product integrity. Demand for robotic grippers in this sector rises with the need for efficient automation to meet the growing demand for packaged and processed food.

Pharmaceuticals: Robotic gripping systems play a crucial role in the pharmaceutical industry, handling delicate medical devices, vials, and packaging materials with precision and care. Grippers tailored for pharmaceutical use must ensure gentle handling to avoid product damage. Demand for robotic grippers in this sector rises alongside the industry's emphasis on quality, safety, and regulatory compliance in pharmaceutical production and packaging.

Industrial Machinery: Robotic gripping systems are vital components in industrial machinery, facilitating tasks such as material handling, assembly, and machine tending. Grippers for industrial use must offer durable and dependable performance to endure heavy-duty operations. Demand for robotic grippers in this sector is fueled by the necessity for automation to enhance productivity, flexibility, and workplace safety in manufacturing processes.

Logistics: Robotic gripping systems are essential in the logistics industry for automating tasks such as picking, packing, and palletizing goods in warehouses and distribution centres. Grippers tailored for logistics must deliver fast, precise handling of various products such as boxes and parcels. Demand for robotic grippers in logistics rises with the rapid expansion of e-commerce, necessitating efficient and scalable robotic solutions for diverse inventory needs.

Others: Robotic gripping systems are integral in the automotive, electronics, plastics, and rubber industries. In automotive, grippers handle parts and load machines; in electronics, they delicately handle components and assist in assembly. Grippers in the plastics and rubber industries manage materials and tend moulds. Demand for robotic grippers across these sectors is spurred by the drive for automation, enhancing efficiency, quality, and competitiveness.

DRIVING FACTORS

"Increasing focus on workplace safety is expected to boost the market"

The prevalence of collaborative robots continues to increase, prioritizing workplace safety as a paramount concern. The integration of advanced safety features within the global robotic gripper system market growth assumes critical importance in facilitating secure interactions between human workers and robots within shared work environments. These innovative safety mechanisms embedded within gripper systems play a pivotal role in mitigating potential hazards and minimizing risks associated with human-robot collaboration. By incorporating such advanced safety features, robotic gripper systems ensure the safe coexistence of humans and robots, fostering a conducive environment for efficient teamwork and productivity. This heightened focus on workplace safety underscores the evolving landscape of industrial automation, where the seamless integration of technology and safety measures becomes imperative for promoting a secure and harmonious working environment.

"Growing applications in e-commerce and logistics are expected to expand the market"

The burgeoning expansion of e-commerce, coupled with the imperative for streamlined logistics operations, has spurred the increased utilization of robotic gripper systems. This surge in demand is primarily attributed to the pivotal role these systems play in facilitating automated processes such as order picking, sorting, and packaging within warehouses and fulfilment centres. Robotic gripper systems are instrumental in optimizing efficiency and enhancing throughput in response to the escalating demands of the e-commerce landscape. By automating critical tasks, these systems contribute to the seamless operation of logistics facilities, ensuring prompt and accurate order fulfilment while mitigating potential bottlenecks. The growing applications of robotic gripper systems in e-commerce and logistics underscore their indispensable contribution to the modernization of supply chain operations, heralding a new era of enhanced productivity and responsiveness in meeting consumer demands.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

"Limited gripping capabilities of traditional grippers potentially restrain the market"

Despite considerable advancements, robotic gripper systems are subject to constraints when it comes to manipulating fragile items, irregularly shaped objects, or materials with diverse properties. Traditional grippers often encounter difficulties in effectively handling such items, particularly those necessitating gentle treatment. The limitations extend to scenarios where objects exhibit varying shapes or physical characteristics, posing challenges for conventional gripping mechanisms. These constraints underscore the need for further innovation in robotic gripper technology to overcome the inherent limitations and enhance adaptability to diverse object types. While significant strides have been made in improving gripping capabilities, particularly in industrial settings, the ongoing quest for solutions to address these challenges remains imperative. Consequently, continued research and development efforts are essential to refining gripper systems and expanding their applicability across a broader spectrum of materials and objects, ultimately bolstering the efficiency and versatility of robotic operations.

ROBOTIC GRIPPING SYSTEM MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

The market is primarily segregated into Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific, North America, and Middle East & Africa.

"North America's market share stems from technological advancements and the adoption of automation in the industry"

North America holds a considerable portion of the global robotic gripper system market share, owing to several key factors. The region benefits from the presence of major industry players, who continually drive innovation and technological advancements. Additionally, North America boasts widespread adoption of automation across various sectors, further bolstering its market position. This dominance is indicative of the region's robust industrial landscape, characterized by a strong commitment to leveraging automation for enhanced operational efficiency. Moreover, North America's proclivity for embracing cutting-edge technologies solidifies its role as a central player in the market. Supported by a well-established infrastructure and a culture of innovation, the region remains at the forefront of robotic gripper system advancements, making significant contributions to the industry's growth and evolution on a large scale.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

"Key industry players form partnerships to enhance products and their market presence"

Key industry players are engaging in strategic alliances and collaborations to bolster their product portfolios and broaden their market presence. These partnerships typically involve integration efforts with robot manufacturers, providers of automation solutions, or companies specializing in sensor technology. Through such collaborative ventures, companies aim to leverage complementary expertise and resources to enhance the functionality and performance of their offerings. By aligning with key industry players, businesses can tap into new markets, capitalize on emerging trends, and strengthen their competitive position. Moreover, these partnerships facilitate synergistic innovation, enabling the development of more integrated and comprehensive solutions that cater to evolving customer needs. Overall, the emphasis on partnerships and collaborations underscores the dynamic nature of the market landscape, where cooperation and mutual support among industry stakeholders play a pivotal role in driving growth and innovation.

List of Market Players Profiled

• Destaco (U.S.)
• Applied Robotics (U.S.)
• RAD (U.S.)
• EMI (U.S.)
• SAS Automation (U.S.)
• Bastian Solutions (U.S.)
• Soft Robotics (U.S.)
• Grabit (U.S.)
• Robotiq (Canada)
• Festo (Germany)
• Schunk (Germany)
• Zimmer (Germany)
• Schmalz (Germany)
• FIPA (Germany)
• SMC (Japan)
• IAI (Japan)

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

February 2024: Changi Airport Group collaborates with Aurrigo International to trial the latest version of the Auto-DollyTug, an electric-powered autonomous vehicle, at Singapore's Changi Airport. The vehicle boasts enhanced ground handling capabilities, including the ability to rotate and move sideways, optimizing aircraft turnaround times. Equipped with bi-directional robotic arms, it can autonomously load and unload unit load devices, marking a significant advancement in airport baggage handling technology.

REPORT COVERAGE

The study encompasses a comprehensive SWOT analysis and provides insights into future developments within the market. It examines various factors that contribute to the growth of the market, exploring a wide range of market categories and potential applications that may impact its trajectory in the coming years. The analysis takes into account both current trends and historical turning points, providing a holistic understanding of the market's components and identifying potential areas for growth.

The research report delves into market segmentation, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research methods to provide a thorough analysis. It also evaluates the impact of financial and strategic perspectives on the market. Furthermore, the report presents national and regional assessments, considering the dominant forces of supply and demand that influence market growth. The competitive landscape is meticulously detailed, including market shares of significant competitors. The report incorporates novel research methodologies and player strategies tailored for the anticipated timeframe. Overall, it offers valuable and comprehensive insights into the market dynamics in a formal and easily understandable manner.