Robotics & Automation News

Where Innovation Meets Imagination

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Machine Vision: Pick and place with FLIR thermal imaging cameras

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Machine vision inspections using visual cameras can occasionally cause recognition problems if the product and background have too little color contrast. In such cases, thermal imaging cameras can be a practical solution – especially if the product has a different temperature than the transport medium.

In many cases such temperature differences are caused by the production process. Injection molding applications are ideal for this, for example, because the produced parts come out of the machine here at a relatively high temperature.

A few years ago, at the German Rubber Conference DKT in Nuremberg, two Austrian companies presented a possible solution in this area. [Read more…] about Machine Vision: Pick and place with FLIR thermal imaging cameras

Using IDS cameras in fully automated wood parts inspection process

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You always need and see them everywhere: in metalworking, on the construction site, in almost every toolbox… the good old hand brush.

Whether classic all-purpose brushes or brushes for special applications, the German-based company Lessmann GmbH has virtually all of them in its range.

The shape is varied, from straight to ergonomic. But they all have one thing in common: The wooden bodies are made exclusively from untreated red beech. Depending on the model, they also have two hanging holes at the end of the handle.

Production is fully automatic and highly rational. In order to ensure its own claim to the excellent quality of the hand brush woods, Lessmann has been relying on classic image processing for many years. [Read more…] about Using IDS cameras in fully automated wood parts inspection process

Specifying a Linear Actuator: 3 Key Factors

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By Japh Humphries, UK Sales & Commercial Manager, Matara UK

Linear motion systems are business critical across an extensive range of industries, from food processing plants, to semiconductor manufacturers and packaging producers to name but a few.

In fact, virtually anywhere that requires loads to be cost-effectively moved in a straight line, safely, securely and precisely.

These systems have improved automation whilst simultaneously lowering production costs, making them invaluable. [Read more…] about Specifying a Linear Actuator: 3 Key Factors

Continental develops ‘quieter’ conveyor belts for flood protection projects in Tokyo

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Continental has developed what it says are “quieter” conveyor belts for flood protection projects in Tokyo.

The company says its “Sicon” pouch conveyor belt transports bulk material safely and cleanly, with low noise and emissions, through residential districts of Japan’s capital.

The conveyor belt are being used in the construction of an underground catch basin for 150,000 cubic meters of water. [Read more…] about Continental develops ‘quieter’ conveyor belts for flood protection projects in Tokyo

SICK launches versatile new software development platform

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Sensors giant SICK has launched a new software development platform that it says is versatile enough to enable programmers to create solutions for the entire industrial process.

SICK says its AppSpace (see video below) offers system integrators and original equipment manufacturers the “freedom and flexibility” to independently develop application solutions that are tailored to the specific needs and requirements of any task.

Whether it’s designing the ideal online user interface, selecting the most suitable programming technology, or distributing the sensor app on various SICK sensors, SICK says AppSpace gives developers the power to develop their own customized solutions. [Read more…] about SICK launches versatile new software development platform

Sick demonstrates ‘smart logistics’ system for warehouse automation

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Sensors supplier Sick showcased a new “smart logistics” system at the recent ProMAT Show, one of the world’s largest material handling exhibitions.

Sick says its system demonstrates how to obtain greater efficiency throughout supply chain operations.

Sick presented its new innovations under the banner of “Logistics Gets Smart”, and says they are designed to provide “highly efficient solutions for intralogistics applications”. [Read more…] about Sick demonstrates ‘smart logistics’ system for warehouse automation

China says its Belt & Road initiative is a way out of the global economic slump

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China is planning to create what looks like will be the largest, longest and most complex logistics network in history – at a cost to itself of almost $1 trillion. 

The so-called Belt & Road Initiative will virtually encircle China, most of Asia and much of Europe, and will mostly consist of interconnected roads, but will also include sea lanes and railways, and possibly some airways.

In total, it will connect approximately 60 countries, and cost anything between $4 trillion and $8 trillion. And the timescale is anyone’s guess.

The northern parts of the Belt & Road network will include the revival of the ancient Silk Road, which connected China to Persia and the Mediterranean Sea to the north, and India, Indonesia and Arabia via sea lanes to the south.  [Read more…] about China says its Belt & Road initiative is a way out of the global economic slump

Metal belts are driving robotics industry growth, says metal belts company

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belt technologies belts-drivetape

Belt Technologies, which claims to be the leading provider of stainless steel belts, drive tapes, and conveyor systems, says metal belts are driving the growth in the robotics industry.

Recently, the company says it has seen an increase in the number of OEMS in the robotics industry seeking metal drive tapes and belts for their automated equipment.

Belt Technology’s president, Alan Wosky, says: “Robotic technology typically requires a high level of precision and cleanliness.  [Read more…] about Metal belts are driving robotics industry growth, says metal belts company