Robotics & Automation News

Market trends and business perspectives

components

Automated Guided Vehicle Systems in Use at Audi

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State-of-the-art automotive manufacturing calls for modularity and versatility when it comes to planning and implementing material supply trolleys for intralogistics. (See video below.)

This is especially clear if you explore the Audi site in Neckarsulm, Germany, where the Audi A8 is manufactured over several floors.

Top-of-the-range models such as the Audi A8 allow customers to choose from a wide range of design options and additional extras to customize their vehicle however they want.

This means that the production teams must stock different types of components in the warehouse and utilize precise advance planning to have the required materials arrive at the line in sufficient quantities and, most importantly, in the right order. [Read more…] about Automated Guided Vehicle Systems in Use at Audi

Celanese suggests replacing metal parts in robots with polymers

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Choosing materials is one of the most important decisions when designing and building a machine such as a robot, particularly one that moves around, like an autonomous warehouse robot or an automated guided vehicle. 

Most of the machines this website features in its articles and advertising use metals for the vast majority of their components. Even the outer casing on most industrial robots tends to be a metal such as iron or steel.

However, according to an expert at Celanese, one of the largest materials companies in the world, the vast majority of components and parts that are currently made out of metal can actually be replaced with polymers or thermoplastics. [Read more…] about Celanese suggests replacing metal parts in robots with polymers

Grenzebach launches new conveyor technologies

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Grenzebach says its new generation of conveyor technology makes it possible to further increase the availability of float glass plants.

Transporting glass gently, carefully and safely is tricky. Grenzebach says its specially developed drive train with direct drive represents a major step forward.

The number of components in the drive has been minimized and access to key components is now even easier. This enables companies to significantly reduce the cost of spare parts and maintenance. [Read more…] about Grenzebach launches new conveyor technologies

More flexible gear machining for industrial robots

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Today’s industrial robots must fit into smaller spaces, so as much “manufacturing real estate” as possible is dedicated to production. This places pressure on manufacturers to machine smaller, tighter components for these machines. Here, Harish Maniyoor, global product manager for automotive at the machine tooling specialist Sandvik Coromant explains why power skiving is the answer.

The overall number of industrial robots operating in factories worldwide grew to 2.7 million in 2019, according to the 2020 World Robotics Report by the International Federation of Robotics. 

This was a 12 percent increase from 2018 and a historic high. Robots factor into a range of industries, from automotive and aerospace to the food industry and pharmaceuticals – yet all of these sectors have common requirements.

Not only must these robots be smaller, but also lighter with reduced inertia and able to perform more exact movements with optimal speed and efficiency. The challenge is on for manufacturers to machine smaller and more precisely engineered-components – like internal gear reducers – with more flexible designs. [Read more…] about More flexible gear machining for industrial robots

Cost reduction in aerospace through additive manufacturing

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Spacecraft are developed on Earth, tested, fully assembled and transported in one piece by a launch vehicle to their respective places of operation. Each component must be designed to withstand the high loads of the launch phase.

In most cases, in addition to complex test procedures, this leads to an oversized structure of the spacecraft components, because in orbit they experience only a fraction of the stresses they must endure during rocket launch.

The maximum take-off mass required for transport with the launch vehicle and the volume of satellites, for example, thus cause high space transport costs. [Read more…] about Cost reduction in aerospace through additive manufacturing

ZF providing safety technology for Zoox autonomous shuttle

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Automotive components giant ZF is providing safety technology for the Zoox autonomous shuttle.

The company says it is providing “advanced occupant protection systems” and “high-quality chassis components” for the vehicle.

ZF says future mobility will encompass ride-hailing solutions and robo-taxis to move people comfortably and safely through the megacities of the globe. [Read more…] about ZF providing safety technology for Zoox autonomous shuttle

Robotiq launches new robotic bin picking solution

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Collaborative robot application specialist Robotiq has introduced a “versatile and affordable” bin picking system which will bring additional proficiency and flexibility to a broad spectrum of mid to high volume manufacturing and processing operations.

In line with the company’s core value of democratising automation, the Robotiq Bin Picking Kit provides a complete solution for locating, picking, handling, and placing flat and cylindrical parts – with rapid set-up that ensures optimal return on investment.

Compatible with Universal Robots, the Kit is particularly well-suited to appliance manufacturing, automotive components, general industry, and metal and plastic products, for applications ranging from stamping, bending, engraving, marking and painting, to deburring, grinding, line feeding and assembly. [Read more…] about Robotiq launches new robotic bin picking solution

Global Industrial Impact of Covid-19

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Covid-19 is not just a global pandemic and public health crisis. Industries around the world are adjusting to a new normal, but normal is no longer an option.

Strict social distancing rules have left many manufacturing businesses with fewer staff and, in some countries, these industries have had to close their doors to try and flatten the curve of infections.

As many manufacturing plant managers know, switching production on and off is not an easy or affordable task. Below we have highlighted just a few of the ways Covid-19 has impacted global industrial manufacturing. [Read more…] about Global Industrial Impact of Covid-19

Mitsubishi Electric Automation launches ‘cost-effective’ industrial robot

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Mitsubishi Electric Automation has launched its RV-8CRL industrial robot, saying it offers “a high-quality solution at a lower price point, while not sacrificing on performance”.

Due to its smaller base size, expanded effective working area, and compatibility with safety intelligence components, RV-8CRL is extremely versatile in its applications, including pick and place, inspection, and general assembly.

The RV-8CRL is designed for original equipment manufacturers and end users with a focus on easy implementation, robust safety options, and a reduction in downtime and maintenance. [Read more…] about Mitsubishi Electric Automation launches ‘cost-effective’ industrial robot

igus unveils virtual trade show booth

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igus, a supplier of components, has unveiled a “virtual trade show booth” to provide some assistance to industry people who are “still bummed out about trade shows being cancelled”. 

The virtual stand is interactive, as you might expect, and features a range of components for many industries, including robotics, material handling, agriculture and many more.

igus says the aim of the stand was to showcase its “new, innovative plastic products for low-cost automation”. [Read more…] about igus unveils virtual trade show booth

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