Robotics & Automation News

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SICK launches new image-based code reader

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SICK has expanded its portfolio of image-based code readers with the launch of the Lector61x.

The compact device detects 1D, 2D, and stacked codes for identification, inspection, or content monitoring in production processes.

The trend toward smaller batch sizes in manufacturing and production processes drove the development of this compact code reader, which SICK says enables manufacturers to maintain short throughput times, in spite of individualized products, and remain competitive in production. [Read more…] about SICK launches new image-based code reader

Omron launches new range of MicroHawk smart cameras

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Industrial automation solutions provider Omron has launched the V/F400 and V/F300 Series Smart Cameras, the latest additions to its popular MicroHawk line that combines code reading and vision inspection capabilities into a single device.

The new solution is available for manufacturers who are concerned that their product inspections are becoming too complex.

The powerful yet compact MicroHawk V/F400 and V/F300 Series Smart Cameras simplify applications by combining code reading and vision inspection into a single, highly compact device. [Read more…] about Omron launches new range of MicroHawk smart cameras

Now you can make Boston Dynamics’ robot dog as scary as you like with the new SDK

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Boston Dynamics has launched a software development kit for its robot dog, Spot.

Already one of the scariest robots the world has ever seen, now the nightmare canine can be made even more terrifying by sick and twisted developers.

Boston Dynamics says the SDK enables a broad range of developers and non-traditional roboticists to communicate with the robot and develop custom applications that enable Spot to do useful tasks across a wide range of industries. [Read more…] about Now you can make Boston Dynamics’ robot dog as scary as you like with the new SDK

Buying a Used Ford: VIN Search Is a Must

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Henry Ford was a great industrialist and businessman. He reinvented the notion of the American automobile industry by his Ford Motor Company.

This brand has become popular not only in the United States but also all around the world.

Purchasing a new Ford from a salon might be expensive and simply unnecessary. [Read more…] about Buying a Used Ford: VIN Search Is a Must

ArtiMinds boosts its robot programming solutions with Wibu-Systems security

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Wibu-Systems, a security technology company, has supported the integration of its comprehensive CodeMeter licensing and security solution into ArtiMinds industrial robot programming software suite.

CodeMeter allows ArtiMinds Robotics, a German provider of sensor-based automation solutions, to protect their intellectual property while enabling them to monetize their software solutions with easy and flexible entitlement management based on different factors, such as user seats or robot-bound licenses.

ArtiMinds Robot Programming Suite combines online and offline programming with a unique approach to create complex robot programs without manually writing a single line of source code. [Read more…] about ArtiMinds boosts its robot programming solutions with Wibu-Systems security

Smart vision inspection system cuts stoppages in packaging

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A collaboration between SICK and AutoCoding Systems has resulted in the launch of the first fully-automatic smart vision inspection system for printed coding and marking on food, pharmaceutical and other consumer goods packaging. 

The 4Sight Automatic Print Inspection System achieves significant savings in day-to-day production stoppages for producers. 

A breakthrough innovation achieved in the AutoCoding 4Sight software, operating on SICK’s Inspector P smart vision camera, enables direct closed-loop communication of the printed message from any brand of printer using standard inkjet, laser or thermal transfer technologies.

[Read more…] about Smart vision inspection system cuts stoppages in packaging

B&R software better utilises the potential of robots

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B&R Automation has added new functions to its mapp Motion software package. It is now possible to represent the structure of a complex machine intuitively in the configuration.

The various subsystems of a machine can be linked together. The movements of robots can be easily synchronised with gantry systems or workpiece tables with no additional programming.

The “Frame hierarchy” function can be used to represent the actual structure of a machine. Coordinate systems can be positioned at key points, such as the tool mounting flange.

[Read more…] about B&R software better utilises the potential of robots

Groupe PSA carries out autonomous driving tests in L3Pilot project

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Since the start of April, Group PSA’s vehicles equipped with level 3 autonomous driving functions have been operating on open roads in France as part of the European L3Pilot project.

Six to eight vehicles will undergo intensive driving tests to validate autonomous functions on dual carriageways.

The project is strengthening Groupe PSA’s expertise in the development of autonomous vehicles, thanks to a global ecosystem of partners, including European carmakers, research centres and roads authorities.

[Read more…] about Groupe PSA carries out autonomous driving tests in L3Pilot project

Sick launches new compact image-based code reader

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Sick has launched a new compact image-based code reader, Lector621, for reliable detection of 1D, 2D, stacked codes, and plain text.

The high-performance DPM – direct part marking – decoder can read laser or dot-peened codes perfectly, even in the case of low contrast levels, contamination, or poor code quality.

This fills a gap in Sick’s existing portfolio of code readers, by providing a compact solution with increased reading distance, resolution, field of vision, and scanning frequency. [Read more…] about Sick launches new compact image-based code reader

Apple extends Swift programming language to support robotics

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Apple has updated Swift Playgrounds, its educational coding app for iPad, to include what the company describes as “new way to learn to code using robots, drones and musical instruments”.

Swift Playgrounds is aimed at students and beginners learning to code with Swift, Apple’s programming language for building apps.

Apple says it is working with leading device makers to make it easy to connect to Bluetooth-enabled robots within the Swift Playgrounds app, allowing users to program and control popular devices, including Lego Mindstorms Education EV3, the Sphero SPRK+, Parrot drones and more.  [Read more…] about Apple extends Swift programming language to support robotics