This article delves into how Zebra Technologies is revolutionizing production automation through strategic acquisitions and advancements in machine vision and AI. By integrating robotics, automation, and cutting-edge digital decision-making, Zebra Technologies has expanded its capabilities beyond industrial printing to offer comprehensive solutions for the manufacturing sector.
The company’s long-term strategies focus on sustainability, scalability, and the widespread adoption of automation technologies, positioning Zebra Technologies as a leader in transforming the future of manufacturing.
Expanding the Scope and Capabilities of Zebra Technologies
Zebra Technologies is renowned for its industrial printing solutions, including scanning, track-and-trace, mobile computing, and software solutions. These innovations have played a crucial role in giving products a “digital voice.” However, Zebra Technologies has undergone significant growth in both scope and scale over the years. Starting with its foundational expertise in industrial printing, the company has expanded into new territories through strategic acquisitions and internal developments.
The 2014 acquisition of Motorola Solutions’ Enterprise business for $3.45 billion marked a pivotal moment for Zebra Technologies, propelling the company into asset visibility, traceability, barcode scanning, and printing capabilities. This acquisition broadened the company’s portfolio and significantly enhanced its market presence.
Another transformative period for Zebra Technologies occurred in 2021, with the acquisition of Fetch Robotics, Adaptive Vision, and Antuit AI. These acquisitions were instrumental in establishing Zebra’s machine vision and fixed industrial scanning portfolios. The momentum continued in 2022 with the acquisition of Matrox Imaging, a leader in frame grabbers, vision controllers, and imaging software
Combining Hardware and Software for Advanced Machine Vision Solutions
Despite being relatively new to the machine and computer vision market, Zebra Technologies has quickly become a formidable player. The company’s strategy of integrating robotics, machine vision, automation, and digital decision-making has proven to be a powerful combination, enhancing both stealth and agility.
According to Andrew Zosel, senior vice president and general manager of Zebra Technologies, the most critical aspect of these acquisitions is the software and algorithms. “We’ve focused on developing and acquiring traditional machine vision capabilities, such as deterministic algorithms, while also investing heavily in AI and deep learning,” Zosel explained.
Zebra Technologies offers a wide range of machine vision products, from basic vision sensors and smart cameras to highly complex, disaggregated systems. These advanced systems may include frame grabber boards in high-end PCs paired with separate cameras and lighting systems. The key to Zebra’s success is its ability to scale its offerings to meet the performance and integration requirements of various applications.
Long-Term Strategies: Automation and Augmentation in Manufacturing
Zebra Technologies is committed to helping its customers overcome the challenges they face in today’s fast-paced manufacturing environment. One area of focus is packaging sustainability. As more customers shift away from plastics, opting for thinner plastics or paper-based packaging, Zebra Technologies is supporting their sustainability efforts by providing scalable inspection solutions.
Zebra’s long-term strategy also includes the widespread implementation of automation technologies. According to a study commissioned by Zebra Technologies, over the next five years, manufacturing leaders plan to adopt various automation technologies, including robotics (65%), machine vision (66%), radio frequency identification (RFID) (66%), and fixed industrial scanners (57%). These technologies are expected to play a crucial role in assigning high-value tasks to the workforce, achieving service level agreements, and increasing flexibility on the plant floor.
Zebra Technologies is continuously exploring ways to make its products “easier to deploy, easier to integrate with robotics, and easier to automate and integrate with material handling systems.” The company is also finding innovative ways to leverage deep learning, AI, and advanced imaging technologies to assist its customers in their applications.
Driving Future Growth with Machine Vision and AI
Zebra Technologies is not just investing in hardware but also in the software and algorithms that power its machine vision systems. This approach is crucial for ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of innovation in the industry. As manufacturing continues to evolve, Zebra Technologies is well-positioned to provide the tools and solutions that manufacturers need to stay competitive.
Through its strategic acquisitions and continued investment in R&D, Zebra Technologies is set to play a key role in the future of manufacturing automation. The company’s commitment to providing scalable solutions, coupled with its focus on AI and machine vision, ensures that it will continue to lead the way in transforming production automation
By combining its hardware expertise with cutting-edge software development, Zebra Technologies is creating a comprehensive suite of solutions that address the most pressing challenges in manufacturing today. Whether it’s enhancing product inspection processes, improving packaging sustainability, or automating complex tasks, Zebra Technologies is empowering manufacturers to achieve their goals and drive future growth.
