Robotics & Automation News

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Top 5 Food Industry Technology Advances In 2019

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A fully functional food industry remains a vital part of any modern economy. Not only does it sustain countless jobs, it also keeps us sustained with food to put on our plates. If the cogs stop turning, we stop eating. It’s that simple!

The food industry has faced its fair share of challenges in recent years. Wage issues and labour shortages have dominated the headlines, often leaving this labour-intensive industry with more product than it can pack. Food is being wasted, and so is time and money.

When you think of modern advances in technology, electric cars and drones and connected devices are likely the first things to come to mind. [Read more…] about Top 5 Food Industry Technology Advances In 2019

Vecna Robotics raises $50 million to expand business

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Vecna Robotics, the workflow orchestration and self-driving forklift provider, has raised $50 million in Series B funding.

With double-digit annual growth forecast for the mobile robot market over the next five years, the new capital will expand Vecna Robotics’ industry-leading footprint and accelerate the development of new product offerings.

This round is led by Blackhorn Ventures, with participation from new investors Highland Capital and Fontinalis Partners, and additional funding from existing investors Drive Capital and Tectonic Ventures. [Read more…] about Vecna Robotics raises $50 million to expand business

OptiPro uses New Scale Robotics system to inspect small parts

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OptiPro Metrology Lab is using a system supplied by New Scale Robotics to inspect small parts. (See video below.)

The optics manufacturer is using New Scale’s Q-Span technology, based on its “precision gripper / caliper”, to automate measurement and machine tending.

The optics measuring solution involves a collaborative robot from Universal Robots and end effectors developed by New Scale. [Read more…] about OptiPro uses New Scale Robotics system to inspect small parts

Piab Group claims to be ‘global leader in ergonomic handling solutions’ after TAWI acquisition

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Piab Group now claims to be the “global leader in ergonomic handling solutions” after its acquisition of the TAWI Group.

Piab Group entered into the agreement to acquire TAWI Group recently. TAWI is a manufacturer of smart lifting solutions with global reach.

Total 2019 sales for TAWI is expected to reach 340 million Swedish krona, which is about $36 million. [Read more…] about Piab Group claims to be ‘global leader in ergonomic handling solutions’ after TAWI acquisition

How to Choose A Gripper for Your Collaborative Robot

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Most modern robots are built with both affordability and practicality in mind. This is because there is work that robots can do really well, and there are some simple things that human beings can do better than robots.

It is for this reason that collaborative robots have gained popularity in all major industries – robots that work alongside humans to not only increase productivity, but also safety in facilities.

Collaborative robots can be programmed to do almost any task. [Read more…] about How to Choose A Gripper for Your Collaborative Robot

Yaskawa launches ‘explosion proof’ industrial robot for painting

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Yaskawa Electric has launched what it describes as an “explosion-proof” industrial “handling” robot.

The new Motoman MHP 45L has a payload capacity of 45 kg, and maximum reach of 2,850 mm for painting areas using volatile paints.

Yaskawa says it has lined up a “wide range of painting robots” optimized for various applications from small to large applications such as smartphones or automotive. [Read more…] about Yaskawa launches ‘explosion proof’ industrial robot for painting

Schmalz launches ‘clever automation solutions’ for electronics production

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Vacuum specialist Schmalz has unveiled numerous “clever” solutions for the automated handling of delicate electronic components.

For example, gripping systems that reliably protect delicate components against electrostatic discharge.

Electrostatic charges and the resulting uncontrolled electrostatic discharge (ESD) produce irreversible damage to electronic components such as chips or printed-circuit boards. [Read more…] about Schmalz launches ‘clever automation solutions’ for electronics production

Fanuc launches new food-grade delta robot

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Industrial automation giant Fanuc has launched a new “food-grade” delta robot.

The company says its new DR-3iB “sets a new standard for robotic food handling in terms of payload, speed, reach and sanitation”.

The new DR-3iB delta robot is Fanuc’s latest solution for picking and packing primary and secondary food products. [Read more…] about Fanuc launches new food-grade delta robot

Swisslog to install ‘highly automated’ warehouse for Jaycar Electronics

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Swisslog is to install a purpose-built, high-tech, highly automated storage, handling and picking solution for Jaycar Electronics.

Jaycar, an electronics retailer and e-tailer, says it is investing in the advanced warehouse in Sydney so it can deliver the efficiency and performance needed to drive its growing business into the future.

Logistics automation specialists, Swisslog, has been chosen to provide the highly automated storage, handling and picking solution at the core of the new-build site. [Read more…] about Swisslog to install ‘highly automated’ warehouse for Jaycar Electronics

Vecna Robotics partners with UniCarriers to launch new line of autonomous material handling solutions

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Vecna Robotics is teaming up with UniCarriers Americas, a manufacturer of material handling equipment and part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

The two companies are collaborating on a line of autonomous material handling vehicles for warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing environments.

Vecna Robotics is integrating its autonomous navigation technology, learning algorithms, and workflow orchestration software into UCA vehicles turning them into autonomous mobile robots, capable of moving bulk material through dynamic warehouse environments. [Read more…] about Vecna Robotics partners with UniCarriers to launch new line of autonomous material handling solutions