Robotics & Automation News

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New product launches to bring new dawn for industrial robotics

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The advent of robotics has been a boon for the industrial sector and new innovations have been offering improved efficiency, less downtime, and better products.

From implementing robots for mundane tasks to enhancing precision of existing tasks, industrial robotics has come a long way.

The advancements in technologies have enabled manufacturers to utilize robots that are lightweight, perform multiple tasks, and improve efficiency. [Read more…] about New product launches to bring new dawn for industrial robotics

Opinion: How will people respond when automation changes their roles?

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Dr Paul Rivers, CEO, Guidance Automation

There has been much written about the benefits that automation can unlock for businesses, but too often businesses think they need to jump in at the deep end and deploy automation technology straight away, hoping it will solve the problems they are experiencing.

But how will a process optimised for a manual workforce perform with automation – such as an automated guided vehicle (AGV)? How will people respond when their day-to-day roles change?

If the aim is to improve efficiency and productivity, technology is just one part of the overall solution. [Read more…] about Opinion: How will people respond when automation changes their roles?

Universal Robots partners with DLL to launch financial services leasing program

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Universal Robots, the largest collaborative robot manufacturer in the world, has launched a new cobot leasing program in partnership with DLL, a global vendor finance company.

The new agreement enables all manufacturers, regardless of size or capital equipment budgets, to reap the benefits of automation without worrying about cash flow and seasonal fluctuations.

Klaus Vestergaard, CFO at Universal Robots, says: “We’re leveling the playing field by enabling all manufacturers to immediately put cobots to work without an upfront capital investment. [Read more…] about Universal Robots partners with DLL to launch financial services leasing program

Zebra Technologies unveils new robot for retail operations

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Zebra Technologies has introduced SmartSight, a robot for mass merchants, grocers, and supermarkets and hypermarkets.

The company is showcasing the new machine at NRF 2020, the retail technology show currently being held in Chicago, USA.

SmartSight leverages the computer vision, machine learning, workflow automation and robotic capabilities of Zebra’s EMA50 enterprise mobile automation system to accurately identify out-of-stock conditions, pricing inconsistencies and planogram issues on the shelf. [Read more…] about Zebra Technologies unveils new robot for retail operations

IAM Robotics to open new HQ and showroom in Pittsburgh

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IAM Robotics, inventor of an autonomous mobile manipulation robot, is opening a new, headquarters and showcase innovation center.

The new 30,000 square foot facility will be located in the emerging high tech area of Pittsburgh known as Robotics Row, a stretch of land that has become a hotbed for robotics and technology companies along the Allegheny River.

The IAM Robotics Showcase Innovation Center will feature a distribution center environment where visitors will experience the company’s high tech robotic labor system in action. [Read more…] about IAM Robotics to open new HQ and showroom in Pittsburgh

Omron showcases new industrial robot with built-in AI

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Omron has demonstrated a new industrial robot with built-in artificial intelligence at the Consumer Electronics Show.

The automation giant says its Omron i4 “next generation industrial robot” possesses embedded AI for predictive maintenance.

This self-diagnosing robot detects and communicates when it needs repairs and routine maintenance, adds Omron. [Read more…] about Omron showcases new industrial robot with built-in AI

Hitachi completes acquisition of JR Automation

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Hitachi has completed the acquisition of the robotic system integration business mainly operated by JR Automation from funds managed by Crestview Partners.

The agreement to acquire JR Automation was announced on April 23, 2019 and the companies have now brought this deal to a successful conclusion.

JR Automation and Hitachi have been closely engaged throughout the integration process leading to the closing, working together to ensure a “seamless transition” for their customers. [Read more…] about Hitachi completes acquisition of JR Automation

Industry 4.0 to ‘revolutionize’ use of safety sensors and switches, says report

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The so-called “Industry 4.0” trend – an umbrella term for a range of connectivity and automation technologies – will “revolutionize” the use of safety sensors and switches, according to a new report.

The Global Market Study on Safety Sensors and Switches, by Persistent Market Research, says the global market is projected to expand at “a meteoric rate” to register annual growth of 10.7 per cent throughout the period of assessment, 2017-2025.

In 2017, the global market for safety sensors and switches was valued at around $13.8 billion and is estimated to touch a valuation higher than $30 billion by the end of the period of forecast. [Read more…] about Industry 4.0 to ‘revolutionize’ use of safety sensors and switches, says report

Omron launches 237 new factory automation control devices

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Omron has launched the sixth wave of its factory automation control devices built on a common design platform for further innovation in control panel building.

The new products include 237 models in six categories low voltage switch gear: J7KC, J7TC, J7MC, J7KCA and J7KCR series low voltage switching gears (LVSG), S8V-CP series DC electronic circuit protectors, and PTF-XX-PU socket for LY relays with Push-In Plus technology.

With its Value Design products, Omron’s goal is to provide a complete solution to panel builders, while saving space and reducing the workload and total cost of ownership. [Read more…] about Omron launches 237 new factory automation control devices

Airbus acquires MTM Robotics

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Airbus has acquired industrial automation company, MTM Robotics, for an undisclosed sum. MTM already partners with Airbus, supplying its robotic hole-drilling system, as reported by Robotics and Automation News previously.

The aerospace colossus says the move “deepens Airbus’ commitment to expanding advanced robotics capabilities within its manufacturing processes”.

The MTM business will retain its current leadership and 40-person staff, as well as its facility in Mukilteo, Washington, near Seattle. [Read more…] about Airbus acquires MTM Robotics