RESOLVERS MARKET SIZE AND SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS AND FORECASTS (2023 - 2030)

The Global Resolvers Market size was valued at US$ 970 Million in 2022 and is expected to reach US$ 1,670 Million by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7% from 2023 to 2030. Resolvers are electromechanical devices that perform angular position measurements. They are used in myriad applications that require precise shaft angular positioning and speed control including industrial robots, antilock braking systems, machine tools, and other automation systems. The key factors driving the market growth include the increasing use of resolvers in defense equipment such as radars, motion control systems, satellites etc. and growth of industrial automation. The resolvers market is segmented based on type, axis type, end-use industry, output, component, and region. By type, the market is segmented into brushless resolvers, brushed resolvers, and others. The brushless resolvers segment accounts for the largest share of the resolvers market owing to their various advantages over brushed resolvers such as contactless design, higher accuracy, and reliability.

Resolvers Market Regional Insights

• Asia Pacific is expected to be the largest market for resolvers during the forecast period, which accounted for over 41.2% of the market share in 2023. The growth of the market in Asia Pacific is attributed to the rapidly expanding defense, aerospace, automotive, and automation industries in emerging economies such as China and India.
• The North America market is expected to be the second-largest market for resolvers, which accounted for over 22.3% of the market share in 2023. The growth of the market in North America is attributed to increasing research and development activities and investments in the defense and aerospace sectors.
• The Europe market is expected to be the fastest-growing market for resolvers, growing at a CAGR of over 7.8% during the forecast period. The growth of the market in Europe is attributed to the growing adoption of Industry 4.0 and automation technologies across industrial sectors.

Figure 1. Global Resolvers Market Share (%), by Region, 2023

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Resolvers Market Drivers:

• Increasing use in defense equipment: The use of resolvers is increasing significantly in defense applications such as radars, motion control systems, satellites, and other navigation and positioning equipment. Resolvers are highly reliable and accurate, which makes them suitable for defense applications. For instance, Northrop Grumman utilizes rugged resolvers on the turret drive system for its AN/TPY-2 radar. Increased defense spending globally is driving the adoption of resolvers in critical defense electronic systems. Defense forces are also retrofitting legacy equipment with modern resolvers for improved capabilities. The robust design and resistance to vibration enables long service life for resolvers in defense applications. Northrop Grumman Corporation is an American multinational aerospace and defense technology company. With 95,000 employees and an annual revenue in excess of $30 billion, it is one of the world's largest weapons manufacturers and military technology providers.
• Growth of industrial automation: Growing automation across process industries is creating a substantial demand for resolvers in servomotors, robotics, CNC machines, and other automated systems. Resolvers enable accurate tracking of angular position in feedback control systems for automation. Key industries driving resolver adoption include automotive, metals & mining, oil & gas, power generation, chemicals production, and food & beverage. For example, resolvers are used extensively in automotive powertrain systems and assembly lines. The increasing investments in Industry 4.0 technologies is accelerating the automation trend in the industrial sector. This is likely to spur the adoption of resolvers significantly.
• Advancements in resolver technology: Ongoing advancements such as contactless resolvers, hollow bore resolvers, multi-speed resolvers, absolute encoders, and the development of Application-specific integrated circuit have enhanced the capabilities and performance of resolvers. Modern resolvers offer higher accuracy, reliability, resolution, and faster processing than earlier models. Manufacturers are developing customized and application specific resolvers according to end-user requirements. The emergence of smart resolvers integrated with electronics and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) also presents growth opportunities.
• Rising adoption of motion control systems: The growing use of motion control systems in automation solutions is driving the adoption of resolvers as position sensors. Resolvers allow precise closed-loop motion control in servo motors. They find wide applications in motion control for factory automation, computer numerical control machines, robotics, conveyors systems, and packaging equipment. Resolvers enable efficient coordination between motors and provide position feedback. Advancements in multi-axis motion controllers and Industry 4.0 are catalyzing the use of resolvers for motion control across industries.

Resolvers Market Opportunities:

• Potential applications in electric vehicles: Resolvers present significant opportunities for angular position sensing in electric vehicle powertrain systems including traction motors, power inverters, gearboxes, and rotors. The shift towards electric vehicles globally will drive the adoption of resolvers in e-mobility applications requiring fault-tolerant position sensing. Resolvers can withstand harsh conditions in electric vehicle and enable precise torque control for electric motors. Leading automotive companies are utilizing resolvers to develop safer and smarter electric vehicles. For instance, according to the International Energy Agency, electric car sales jumped 41% in 2021 to roughly 6.6 million despite ongoing semiconductor chip shortages. The agency predicts that electric cars could account for over 60% of new car sales by 2030.
• Integration with wind turbines: Modern wind turbines require reliable solutions for blade pitch control and yaw positioning. Resolvers can provide accurate position feedback for wind turbine drive systems operating under tough environmental conditions. Resolvers do not get affected by debris, humidity, or temperature fluctuations in wind turbines. Original equipment manufacturer are integrating resolvers in wind turbine generators and gearboxes to maximize power generation efficiency. The growing global investments in wind energy projects will spur the adoption of resolvers in wind turbines. For instance, According to the International Renewable Energy Agency, the world is increasingly using renewable energy sources such as wind power to meet carbon reduction targets, and the number of installed wind turbines  is projected to nearly double by 2026.
• Use in collaborative robots: Collaborative robots require precise joint control and human safety systems for effective functioning. The high accuracy and absolute positioning ability of resolvers enables enhanced control of collaborative robot joints and limbs. Leading robotics firms, such as Fanuc and ABB, are implementing resolvers for precise joint positioning in cobots. Resolvers also allow advanced torque sensing capability for safer human-robot collaboration. The surging adoption of cobots across industries is likely to drive resolver integration in collaborative robots.
• Adoption in space applications: Resolvers are finding increasing application in spacecraft attitude control, antenna positioning, and other pointing systems. They can provide accurate positional feedback in harsh space environments. Resolvers do not get affected by radiation and thermal fluctuations in space. Space organizations, such as National Aeronautics and Space Administration, The European Space Agency, Indian Space Research Organisation , and leading aerospace firms, are utilizing resolvers extensively in launch vehicles, satellites, and spacecraft payloads owing to their reliability advantages. For example, NASA's ambitious Artemis program that aims to establish a long-term human presence on the Moon by 2030 will require the deployment of various rovers, stations, and modules on the lunar surface. All of these will need resolver sensors for tasks like robotic arm controls, antenna positioning, and sample collection. Resolver sales for NASA projects were upwards by US$ 30 million in 2021 according to the NASA procurement database.

Resolvers Market Trends:

• Development of customized and application specific resolvers: Resolver manufacturers are developing application-specific designs customized according to the unique requirements of end-use cases. Parameter programmable resolvers allow adaptation to different output formats, operating speeds, temperature ranges, and accuracy levels. Customization enhances resolver performance in the desired application. Leading companies like Honeywell and Tamagawa offer engineering support for custom resolver designs. The trend of application-specific resolvers is gaining significant traction in the market. For instance, the U.S.-based BEI Sensors has filed several patents since 2020 for resolver designs customized for servo motors, medical devices, and aircraft systems. This reflects their focus on developing solutions as per the resolvers used in these strategic sectors.
• Adoption of hollow bore resolvers: Hollow bore resolvers are gaining increasing popularity owing to space savings and integration benefits. Unlike conventional resolvers, they provide a hollow shaft which allows routing of wires and cables through the center. This enables the embedding of resolvers within electric motors and generators for more compact systems. The space efficiency is driving the utilization of hollow bore resolvers in motion control systems, robot joints, automated guided vehicles , and other applications where space constraints exist. For instance, a 2022 case study from the European Space Agency highlighted the successful implementation of hollow bore resolver technology in the attitude control system of a satellite due to its ability to achieve high performance in a smaller size envelope. The growing use of resolvers including hollow bore types in advanced technologies will likely propel the global resolvers market forward in the coming years.
• Emergence of wireless resolvers: Wireless resolvers eliminate complex cable connections and offer flexibility in feedback systems. They allow remote monitoring and find applications in rotating equipment where slip rings are not desired. Wireless operation aids quick resolver installation and enhances portability. Key companies like Honeywell and TE Connectivity provide wireless resolver solutions using ASIC/SoC technology. The wireless trend will gain more traction with the adoption of Industry 4.0 and IoT.
• Integration of resolvers with motors: Resolver manufacturers are increasingly collaborating with motor OEMs to develop integrated resolver-motors. Inbuilt resolvers simplify system architecture and enhance motion control performance. They eliminate alignment issues associated with external resolvers. TE Connectivity, Renishaw, and Micronor offer brushless servo motors with integrated resolvers. Pre-aligned and pre-calibrated integrated motor-resolvers are gaining adoption for automation applications requiring compact servo systems.

Resolvers Market Restraints:

• High costs compared to encoders: Resolvers are relatively more expensive than optical encoders. Encoders can provide higher resolution and faster processing speed at lower prices. This can restrain the adoption of resolvers in some applications where cost is critical. However, resolvers outperform encoders in harsh environments involving temperature fluctuations, vibrations, and electromagnetic noise. Encoder costs are also declining owing to mass production, presenting a major challenge for resolvers. For instance, as per the United Nations International Trade Statistics Database, the global trade of industrial process control instruments including sensors rose by 12% from 2020 to 2021.
• Performance limitations at high operating speeds: Standard resolvers have limited operational speed capacity ranging from 6,000 to 10,000 rpm. This makes them unsuitable for very high-speed applications such as microturbines and machine spindles. Optical encoders perform better at high speeds owing to fast digital processing. However, manufacturers are developing high-speed resolvers using advanced ASICs and multiple pole configurations to suit high rpm applications.
• Complex designs and integration challenges: Resolvers have relatively more complex hardware structure versus digital encoders. Their integration into different rotary systems for position feedback requires precision engineering expertise. Proper alignment and calibration is vital for desired resolver functioning. This poses challenges during new product development for OEMs. The design complexity can drive the preference for simpler encoders in some applications. For instance, according to United Nations Industrial Development Organization (2021), around 30% of manufacturers especially in developing countries face difficulties in designing resolvers suitable for their miniature production needs. The lack of proper engineering capabilities and testing facilities limits the ability of resolver manufacturers to fully satisfy the demands of original equipment manufacturers.

Counterbalance: Complexity in manufacturing and design advanced technology and precision required in manufacturing can be a barrier to entry in manufacturing & designing.

Analyst’s Views

The global resolvers market is poised to experience steady growth over the next five years. The rising adoption of robotics and industrial automation across industries will be a key driver for resolver demand. Resolvers find widespread usage in feedback and motion control applications such as robotics, CNC machines, and factory automation equipment. The growing emphasis on industrial automation to enhance productivity and reduce costs will boost the deployment of automation equipment that use resolvers. North America and Europe currently dominate the market due to the strong presence of industrial automation equipment manufacturers. However, Asia Pacific is projected to be the fastest growing regional market with China and India in the lead. This can be attributed to the rapidly expanding manufacturing sectors in these countries. On the utilization side, CNC machines and robotics will remain the predominant application segments. However, the aerospace and defense industry may emerge as an important growth avenue going forward. Adoption of resolvers for aircraft control systems and guided weapons is expected to increase. High precision and reliability make resolvers ideal for such critical applications. Meanwhile, introduction of integrated position sensors poses a key restraining factor as they are replacing discreet resolver solutions. Manufacturers need to focus on technology advancements to improve sensor accuracy and reduce size for resolvers to retain competitiveness against integrated solutions. Ongoing shift towards smarter industrial equipment also presents new opportunities for resolver providers to develop advanced solutions catering to Industry

Recent Developments

New product launches

• In January 2022, Honeywell launched the TR30 Series Resolver, designed to provide enhanced accuracy and reliability in high-vibration environments such as motors and generators. Honeywell International Inc. is a U.S.-based publicly traded, multinational conglomerate corporation headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. It primarily operates in four areas of business: aerospace, building technologies, performance materials and technologies, and safety and productivity solutions.
• In June 2021, Tamagawa Seiki launched FXH618R, a new compact hollow resolver that improves detection accuracy and torque. It can be used in joint sections of industrial robots. Tamagawa Seiki Co. Ltd. is an electrical machinery manufacturer that produces and sells servo components, motor driver controllers, and automatic control devices including encoders, resolver, rate sensors, gyros, and motors.
• In March 2020, TE Connectivity launched the HMS-10 Resolver, which provides accurate position sensing and improved noise immunity for industrial and commercial applications. TE Connectivity is a U.S.-based Swiss-domiciled technology company that designs and manufactures connectors, sensors, and application tooling for various industries including automotive, industrial equipment, data communication systems, aerospace, defense, medical, oil and gas, consumer electronics, and energy.

Acquisition and partnerships

• In January 2021, Honeywell partnered with Ball Aerospace to demonstrate an optical communication capability for spacecraft using Honeywell's resolvers. This improved fault tolerance in satellite positioning systems. Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp. or just Ball Aerospace is an American manufacturer of spacecraft, components and instruments for national defense, civil space and commercial space applications.
• In June 2020, Woodward acquired aircraft motion control and systems provider, HR Textron for US$130 million. This allowed Woodward to expand its aerospace resolvers product portfolio. Woodward, Inc. is an American designer, manufacturer, and service provider of control systems and control system components for aircraft engines, industrial engines and turbines, power generation and mobile industrial equipment. 

Figure 2. Global Resolvers Market Share (%), by Output, 2023

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Top Companies in the Resolvers Market

• Moog Inc.
• Honeywell International Inc.
• AMETEK Inc.
• TE Connectivity
• Woodward Inc.
• General Dynamics Corporation
• Parker Hannifin Corp
• Sensata Technologies
• Tamagawa Seiki Co., Ltd.
• LTN Servotechnik GmbH
• Maxon Group
• Bevone
• Danaher Corporation
• Kollmorgen
• TE Connectivity
• ALXION
• Micronor
• Elmo Motion Control
• Electro-Sensors
• Siko GmbH

Definition: The resolvers market refers to the global market for resolvers, which are electromechanical devices used for precise angular position measurement and control in myriad industrial applications. Key end-use industries for resolvers include aerospace and defense, automotive, and industrial automation. The market is driven by the increasing adoption of automation technologies across industries, advancements in resolver designs, and growing use in motion control systems. Leading manufacturers offer brushless and brushed resolvers in 1-axis, 2-axis, and 3-axis configurations to meet diverse angular sensing and feedback needs.