Robotics & Automation News

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pick and place robots

Interview with Workr Robotics CEO Ken Macken: ‘Paying for automation by the hour’

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Industrial robotics is entering a new phase. Advances in artificial intelligence, large language models, and so-called embodied AI have sparked renewed excitement about robots that can understand, reason about, and interact with the physical world.

High-profile collaborations between companies such as Google DeepMind and Boston Dynamics have fueled speculation that increasingly capable general-purpose robots may soon find their way onto factory floors.

But not everyone in the industry is convinced that these developments represent an immediate breakthrough for manufacturing. [Read more…] about Interview with Workr Robotics CEO Ken Macken: ‘Paying for automation by the hour’

ABB Robotics launches PickMaster Lite to ‘simplify and accelerate robotic picking’

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ABB Robotics has launched PickMaster Lite, a streamlined version of its PickMaster software suite designed to help packaging OEMs and system integrators deploy high-speed, vision-guided robotic picking applications more quickly and with less complexity.

Offering essential functionality for common picking tasks, PickMaster Lite reduces engineering effort and simplifies system setup, enabling faster commissioning and lower total cost of ownership.

Craig McDonnell, business line managing director industries at ABB Robotics, says: “Manufacturers are increasingly looking for automation that can be deployed quickly and reliably to keep pace with changing demand. [Read more…] about ABB Robotics launches PickMaster Lite to ‘simplify and accelerate robotic picking’

Kuka expands KR Cybertech range with new mid-payload robots and controller

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Kuka has introduced two new variants of its KR Cybertech industrial robot family, expanding its portfolio in the medium payload segment.

The company says the new models – offering payload capacities of 25 kg and 35 kg – are designed to bridge a gap in its existing lineup while maintaining the same physical footprint as earlier systems. [Read more…] about Kuka expands KR Cybertech range with new mid-payload robots and controller

Universal Robots launches new collaborative robot

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Universal Robots, the world’s leading collaborative robot (cobot) company, has expanded its UR Series with the launch of the UR18, an industrial collaborative robot designed to deliver both power and speed in a compact form.

With a 950 mm reach, payload capacity for larger end effectors, and motion speeds up to 4 m/s, the UR18 is ideal for fast-paced pick-and-place, assembly, and material handling in industries such as logistics, automotive, and food and beverage.

Its lightweight 39 kg design makes installation simple on most standard gantry systems, enabling flexible mounting without costly infrastructure changes. [Read more…] about Universal Robots launches new collaborative robot

ABB enhances portfolio of high-speed industrial robots with Codian acquisition

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ABB has acquired Codian Robotics B.V., a leading provider of delta robots, which are used primarily for high-precision pick and place applications. Codian Robotics’ offering includes a hygienic design line, ideal for hygiene-sensitive industries including food and beverage and pharmaceuticals. With the transaction, ABB is accelerating its engagement in the growing field of delta robots.

Codian Robotics is located in Ede, Netherlands and employs 20 people globally. The company will continue to serve its customers directly. The acquisition was signed and closed on October 1, 2020. Both parties have agreed not to disclose any details regarding the purchase price. [Read more…] about ABB enhances portfolio of high-speed industrial robots with Codian acquisition