Robotics – IndMacDig | Industrial Machinery Digest https://industrialmachinerydigest.com The Industry's Most Extensive Industiral Digest Tue, 24 Feb 2026 16:53:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/newIMDWeb-100x100.png Robotics – IndMacDig | Industrial Machinery Digest https://industrialmachinerydigest.com 32 32 Hennig WorkFlow reliably automates pallet loading for CNC manufacturers.  https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/automation-equipment/hennig-workflow-reliably-automates-pallet-loading-for-cnc-manufacturers/ Tue, 24 Feb 2026 16:53:41 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=140761 Hennig’s Machine Tool Ecosystem keeps expanding into automation. WorkFlow integrates with existing chip conveyors, coolant systems, and machine protection to deliver clean, reliable operation through the night. The system maintains uptime your CNCs need without disrupting the auxiliary equipment already in place.

WorkFlow is a plug-and-play pallet automation system capable of running through breaks, shift changes, and weekends without a dedicated operator.

Designed for high-mix, medium-volume CNC environments, WorkFlow automates part and pallet loading to keep spindles cutting while people focus on higher-value work. Its compact footprint is ideal for facilities that want to boost capacity without expanding square footage. That’s a critical advantage for shops with labor limitations and space constraints.

By converting machine idle hours into productive runtime, WorkFlow delivers measurable ROI within months.

By the numbers

  • Handles up to 40 pallets
  • Supports work envelopes of up to 300 mm cube per pallet
  • Pallet load capacity of up to 125 lbs

Closing the automation gap

In many CNC facilities, operators are still tied to repetitive manual tasks like loading/unloading parts and restarting cycles. These stop-and-start processes increase downtime and limit throughput.

“With the Hennig Workflow Automation System, we’re redefining what it means to be a supplier. The integration within the Hennig Ecosystem empowers us to work alongside our customers as true partners — optimizing workflows, maximizing productivity, and unlocking new levels of efficiency and profit.” – Eric Nekich BDD

Many large automation cells require shops to reconfigure systems and layouts. But not with WorkFlow. It integrates directly into existing machining environments in a compact cabinet. The system pairs seamlessly with workholding foundations to maximize spindle time across parts, shifts, and setups. WorkFlow arrives ready to connect with monitoring software that communicates with the machine tool and its peripherals.

Flexible architecture allows shops to manage low-volume, high-mix jobs and repeat production runs, without unique grippers for every part. By automating pallet loading instead of part handling, WorkFlow minimizes programming complexity and expands lights-out production to a broader range of applications.

Shops adopting the system have reported significant increases in spindle utilization, along with reductions in setup frequency, operator complacency, and unplanned downtime.

Part of a complete machine tool ecosystem

WorkFlow builds on Hennig’s decades-long commitment to total machine reliability.

It complements the company’s established portfolio of chip conveyors, coolant systems, and protective covers. This equipment forms the foundation of uptime across thousands of U.S. shops. Together, these components create a fully integrated Machine Tool Ecosystem, engineered to work in harmony and evolve as customers grow.

For manufacturers that need to catch up or want to get ahead of the CNC automation evolution, WorkFlow presents a clear path forward.

Learn more about Hennig WorkFlow at hennigworldwide.com/workflow.

About Hennig, Inc.

Since 1950, Hennig Worldwide has helped manufacturers and infrastructure providers protect what matters most — from CNC machine systems to critical backup power. With deep roots in Illinois and customers around the globe, Hennig builds chip and coolant management systems, machine protection equipment, generator enclosures, and fuel storage solutions engineered for real-world performance. The company continues to grow through responsive service, smart integration, and a belief that durable, U.S.-built equipment still has a job to do.

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Agility Robotics Announces Commercial Agreement with Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/agility-robotics-announces-commercial-agreement-with-toyota-motor-manufacturing-canada/ Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:12:48 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=140745 Agility Robotics, creator of the general-purpose robot Digit, today announced that Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada (TMMC) has signed a commercial agreement with the company. After a successful pilot, TMMC plans to deploy Agility’s robot, Digit, in its facilities to support employees with manufacturing, supply chain and logistics operations.

“Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada has long been a leader in automotive manufacturing innovation,” explained Tim Hollander, President, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada. “After evaluating a number of robots, we are excited to deploy Digit to improve the team member experience and further increase operational efficiency in our manufacturing facilities.”

AgilityIn addition to the work Digit is doing today, Agility and TMMC will continue to assess further use cases where robots and AI could help augment automotive production. The companies will explore how automating some extremely repetitive and physically taxing tasks commonly found on automotive manufacturing production lines could reduce strain and increase safety for employees, freeing them to do more value-added work in the production facility.

TMMC joins a growing number of Fortune 500 companies deploying Agility’s humanoid robots across the globe, including GXO, the world’s largest pure-play contract logistics provider, Schaeffler, the motion technology company and Amazon.

“Toyota is one of the premier companies in the world; one with a long history of innovation and success, so it’s a privilege to join forces to integrate humanoid robotic solutions like Digit into automotive production,” said Peggy Johnson, Agility Robotics’ CEO. “I look forward to continuing our work with Toyota to identify all the ways that Digit can help the employees working at their production facilities. With our next generation of Digit, we will be the first company to deliver the first cooperatively safe humanoid robot to work alongside people, allowing companies like Toyota to scale their use of humanoids well beyond what is possible today.”

Agility’s solutions include Digit, a general-purpose humanoid robot made for logistics and manufacturing work, and Agility Arc, a cloud automation platform for deploying and managing fleets of Digits. Amidst a global labor shortage, Digit can do a variety of monotonous, process-automated tasks in manufacturing operations that are often difficult for companies to fill and keep filled. Agility’s human-centric automation solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly into manufacturing facilities without the need for costly retrofits or overhauls. Additionally, Digit can continually learn tasks and adapt to new manufacturing workflows, using AI to accelerate its commercial capabilities.

About Agility Robotics

Headquartered in Salem, Oregon, with offices in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and San Jose, California, Agility Robotics’ mission is to build robot partners that augment the human workforce, ultimately enabling humans to be more human. Agility’s groundbreaking general-purpose humanoid robot, Digit, is the first multi-purpose, human-centric robot that is made for work™.

About Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada (TMMC) is Toyota’s largest manufacturing operation outside of Japan, operating vehicle assembly plants in Cambridge and Woodstock, Ontario. Since 1988, TMMC has built its success through the skill, dedication, and continuous improvement mindset of its team members.

Guided by Toyota’s “Respect for People” philosophy, TMMC prioritizes workplace safety, employee well-being, training, and career development. The company continues to invest in innovative tools, technologies, and processes that support team members, improve ergonomics, and create a safe, inclusive, and sustainable work environment.

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Trener Robotics Delivers Pre-Trained Skills to Industrial Robots in CNC Automation  https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/training/trener-robotics-delivers-pre-trained-skills-to-industrial-robots-in-cnc-automation/ Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:40:01 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=140741 Powered by a new $32M investment round, Trener Robotics’ Acteris platform replaces rigid procedural coding with pre-trained Physical AI skills, letting CNC operators describe robotic tasks in their own words, turning conversational input into executable automation. Acteris is a software defined intelligence layer in the factory stack, empowering robots to self-learn and adapt to high mix production while providing integrators with a standardized suite to transform one-off projects into scalable, repeatable applications.

For decades, the power of industrial robotics has been limited by the complexity of a dynamic world, confining millions of robotic arms to repetitive, single-purpose tasks in highly controlled environments. With the Acteris platform, Trener Robotics (formerly T-Robotics) is fundamentally changing this paradigm. “By replacing procedural programming with pre-trained AI skills, we give robots the ability to understand and act with true intelligence learned from data extracted from humans, robots, and videos of industrial processes,” said Dr. Asad Tirmizi, co-founder and CEO of Trener Robotics.

Investment will accelerate AI models as the new standard for robot operations Trener Robotics today announced it has raised a $32 million Series A round of funding. Co-led by existing investor Engine Ventures and new investor IAG Capital Partners with participation from strategic investors Cadence and Geodesic Capital through Nikon’s NFocus Fund, the new capital brings Trener Robotics’ total funding to over $38 million. The funding will be used to support training Trener Robotics’ platform Acteris with new CNC machine tending knowledge, distribution expansion into new markets, and hiring talent to address rapidly scaling demand.

“This fresh capital allows us to further accelerate our mission to make AI models the new standard for robot operations, turning the millions of existing robots and tens of millions of robots yet to be deployed, into intelligent, self-learning teammates for manufacturers of all sizes,” said Tirmizi.

Unlike brittle, narrowly scripted systems or research-first generalist platforms, Acteris is a practical, shop-floor-proven solution. Trener Robotics’ first focus area is robotic CNC machine tending with other high-demand applications to follow in 2026. Machine shops using Acteris gain:

  • A groundbreaking agentic user interface that enables robots to be controlled through natural conversation, intuitive task sequences, and high-fidelity simulation. It empowers any user, regardless of robotics expertise, to effortlessly run high-performance robotic applications.
  • Part identification and handling even under adverse conditions.
  • Optimized robot motions that react to changes, delivering unprecedented robustness. ● Intelligent collision avoidance and enhanced safety features that mimic common sense. ● Real-time production dashboards for performance monitoring.

Opportunity for integrators: Scaling automation without scaling complexity Trener Robotics has built rapid momentum with more than 15 solution and integration partners across Europe and the U.S. that now provide Acteris-powered turnkey solutions—including the robot, gripper, and software—all pre-integrated and production-ready. Acteris is currently directly compatible with ABB, Universal Robots, and FANUC, with more leading robot brands to follow.

“Our go-to-market strategy is to empower System Integrators and OEMs with a Robot AI skills platform for deploying and controlling robots across diverse industrial environments,” said Tirmizi. By utilizing standardized robot and application logic, Acteris provides a reduced programming burden, shorter project timelines, and a modern operator experience that aligns integrator productivity with end-customer quality. “This approach transforms one-off integrator projects into repeatable, scalable solutions designed for speed, consistency, and predictability,” said the Trener Robotics CEO, adding that the company is actively looking to expand its global integrator network.

Flexible automation in double-digit growth 

Dozens of strategic industrial players, from machine tool OEMs to hardware manufacturers, have already shown interest in exploring ways to embed Acteris into their systems. The market for flexible, adaptable automation is advancing at 14.3% CAGR, driven by persistent labor shortages, the demand for high-mix production, and rising operational costs that prompt manufacturers to seek solutions with a rapid return on investment. “When we co-led Trener Robotics’ seed round, we saw a team with a clear vision to solve one of the biggest bottlenecks in automation,” said Reed Sturtevant, General Partner at Engine Ventures. “Their execution and

ability to rapidly scale has been remarkable. This traction validates the software’s shift in the training model from traditional programming to embedding, pre-trained AI skills directly into robots.”

“The industrial automation market is at an inflection point, with Trener Robotics well positioned at the forefront of the AI-driven transformation,” said Dennis Sacha, Partner at IAG Capital Partners. “This technology is precisely what small and mid-sized enterprises globally need to become more competitive and efficient as AI redefines the future of manufacturing.”

Recent awards underscore momentum 

At the world’s largest machining tradeshow, EMO Hannover, Trener Robotics recently won the prestigious Machine Tool Innovation Award in recognition of its groundbreaking approach to robotics. In late 2024, Trener Robotics was selected as the winner in the ABB AI Startup Challenge, which accelerates the robotics and AI industries by seeking innovation across the three key areas of natural language programming, skill learning, and autonomous decision making.

For more on how Acteris simplifies daily robot operation for CNC machine shops and operators, join Trener Robotics’ free AI to accelerate your robot deployment webinar on March 3, co hosted with Universal Robots.

About Trener Robotics

Co-founded in 2024 by CEO Dr. Asad Tirmizi and CTO Dr. Lars Tingelstad, T-ROBOTICS (formerly T-ROBOTICS) is transforming robotics by combining advanced AI for intuitive programming with pre-trained skill models that are expert at specific tasks. The company’s software, Acteris, gives users unprecedented ease and capabilities for their robots, allowing them to think, adapt, and perform complex jobs. Headquartered in San Francisco (USA) and Trondheim (Norway), the Trener Robotics team consists of industry veterans whose experience spans leading companies in robotics and technology, including Universal Robots, ABB, Vicarious, Google, KUKA, Autodesk, and TikTok.

Visit T-ROBOTICS at: https://www.trener.ai/ and Linkedin

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Why Faster Robots Are No Longer Enough for Industry https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/autonomous-technology/why-faster-robots-are-no-longer-enough-for-industry/ Mon, 23 Feb 2026 15:30:29 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=140735 Reactive robotics has delivered enormous efficiency gains for industry. But the technology is reaching its economic limits: systems that only respond to the current state scale speed – but not stability. As process complexity grows, small misjudgements lead to costly downtime. Stuttgart-based AI company Sereact is now introducing Cortex 2.0, a new generation of AI that evaluates the consequences of actions in advance and eliminates errors before they occur. The economic potential is immense.

In logistics and manufacturing, the most expensive problems do not arise from a lack of precision or systems that are too slow, but from decisions whose consequences only become apparent with a delay. An unstable grip, an unfavourable sequence, or a minor deviation. What appears correct in the moment leads to bottlenecks, standstills, or damaged goods seconds or minutes later. The industry’s response to date has been clear: better sensors, faster reactions, more automation. This model scales speed above all else – not stability. As process complexity increases, so do risk and cost. Reactive systems are hitting a structural limit. This is precisely where Sereact steps in.

Predictive Physical AI

SereactWith Cortex 2.0, the Stuttgart-based AI company is pursuing an approach that advances physical AI not through faster execution, but through better decisions. Instead of allowing robots to react exclusively to the current state, Cortex 2.0 supplements control with a predictive assessment of possible courses of action. The system estimates which decisions could lead to problems later on and learns to avoid them.

Learning from real processes

The key difference to many current physical AI approaches lies in the database. Cortex 2.0 does not primarily learn from simulations, but from real-world operation. Sereact already operates several hundred robots in productive environments in Europe and the US . These deployments continuously generate data on how decisions affect real processes and how small deviations escalate or remain stable. “In industry, complex processes cannot be simulated realistically,” says CEO and co-founder Ralf Gulde. “Predictive action only arises where systems experience real consequences. Cortex learns precisely from these experiences.”

Why stability is becoming a key economic factor

SereactThis approach is economically relevant because unplanned downtime is one of the biggest cost drivers in automated processes. The higher the degree of automation, the more expensive wrong decisions become. Reactive physical AI reaches its limits here. It becomes faster, but not more robust.

Cortex 2.0 therefore clearly separates execution and evaluation for the first time. The robots remain fast and latency-free. The analysis of possible consequences runs in parallel and is fed back into the system via learning processes. This improves the quality of decisions without slowing down operations.

This capability will be crucial for the next generation of autonomous systems, such as collaborative robots, multi-stage processes, and, in the future, humanoid applications. Machines that work alongside humans or control complex processes must not only be able to act, but also assess what their actions will trigger.

Sereact is positioning Cortex 2.0 as the answer to a fundamental economic question of physical AI: How can automation and stability be scaled together? The solution lies less in even greater speed than in systems that understand the consequences of their decisions.

About Sereact

Sereact was founded in Stuttgart in 2021 by Ralf Gulde (CEO) and Marc Tuscher (CTO). The company is one of the leading providers of embodied AI in Europe and has raised €25 million from renowned investors to date. Sereact develops AI software for autonomous robotics and operates some of the most productive AI-controlled robot systems in European warehousing.

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The Form & Function of Enterprise Humanoid Design https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/the-form-function-of-enterprise-humanoid-design/ Fri, 20 Feb 2026 19:21:18 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=140729

When Boston Dynamics set out to build Atlas®, the guiding question wasn’t “what should a robot look like?” It was “what does industrial work actually demand?” The result is a humanoid unlike anything else on the floor.

On Wednesday, March 18th at 11:00 AM ET, the team behind that vision is pulling back the curtain.

Reserve My Seat >

Join Chris Thorne, Director of Hardware Innovation, James Cuseo, Technical Director of Compute and Sensing, and Aaron Abroff, Head of Industrial Design, from Boston Dynamics for a 30-minute technical deep dive into how core product requirements shaped every aspect of Atlas’ design.

In this 30-minute session, you’ll learn about:

  • Actuator strategy – How modular, high-performance actuators enable continuous rotation and greater flexibility on the floor
  • Safety philosophy – How Atlas is designed to protect the people and equipment around it, without sacrificing capability
  • Passive thermal approach – Why a fanless cooling system makes Atlas more reliable and better suited for industrial environments
  • Head design and UX – How the light ring and perception goals shaped the most recognizable part of the robot

If you’re responsible for operations, automation, or evaluating next-generation robotics for your facility, this session was built for you.

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Alva Industries establishes US office and appoints Sales Director for North America https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/automation-equipment/alva-industries-establishes-us-office-and-appoints-sales-director-for-north-america/ Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:28:22 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=140603 North America is a key market for Alva, and as part of this regional focus, the company has appointed David Eidelshtein as Sales Director North America. In this role, David will be responsible for building Alva’s commercial presence across the region, working closely with OEM customers from early technical engagement through long-term partnerships.

David brings more than 10 years of experience in global sales and business development within motion, automation, and advanced industrial technologies. He has led complex sales cycles with tier-one OEMs across robotics, semiconductor manufacturing, medical devices, and industrial automation. David holds a Bachelor of Technology in Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering from the British Columbia Institute of Technology. He will be supporting customers across North America.

“I’m energized by the opportunity to scale Alva’s presence across North America by building strategic partnerships with OEMs developing next-generation technologies,” said David Eidelshtein, Sales Director North America at Alva Industries. “Throughout my career, I’ve focused on introducing transformational innovations to applications where they create real impact. Alva’s FiberPrinting™ technology represents a breakthrough that can redefine performance in critical markets. My approach has always been relationship-first, working closely with engineering teams and executives to convert design wins into long term partnerships.”

“David brings the right mix of industry expertise, technical depth, and entrepreneurial spirit to support Alva’s ambitious growth plans,” said Nicolas Giraudo, CCO of Alva. “His positive attitude and energy, combined with strong understanding of high-end markets position him to make an immediate impact as we scale our commercial presence internationally. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the team.”

About Alva Industries

Alva Industries is a Norwegian deep-tech company developing high-performance electric motors with their patented FiberPrinting™ technology. They are active in multiple markets, including optronics, robotics, automation equipment, marine propulsion systems, aerospace and autonomous vehicles

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OnRobot to Host Automation Roadmap Event in Dallas, Targeting Manufacturing Labor Shortages Facing North Texas https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/onrobot-to-host-automation-roadmap-event-in-dallas-targeting-manufacturing-labor-shortages-facing-north-texas/ Tue, 20 Jan 2026 19:51:24 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=140549 With manufacturers across North Texas struggling to hire and retain production workers, OnRobot will host the “Build your Automation Roadmap” event in Dallas on February 19th, bringing practical automation solutions directly to the region’s manufacturing community.

The free, in-person event is designed for manufacturers in sectors such as metal fabrication, CNC machining, electronics, aerospace, food & beverage, and industrial equipment manufacturing — industries that form the backbone of the DFW manufacturing economy and are among the hardest hit by ongoing labor shortages.

Event Snapshot:

OnRobotWhat:
Build Your Automation Roadmap: Industrial Robots + Tooling
A hands-on event featuring live FANUC robot demonstrations, expert-led workshops, and real-world automation use cases.

When:
February 19th, 2026, 12noon-4pmCT

Where:
The Westin Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas

Why:
Manufacturers across North Texas are facing persistent hiring challenges. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas’ Texas Business Outlook Survey, a lack of available applicants and shortages of candidates with the right technical skills remain among the top barriers to hiring for manufacturers, while many firms report increased competition for labor and rising wage pressures. These challenges are forcing manufacturers to rethink how they maintain output, meet customer demand, and scale operations.

OnRobot“As one of the largest and fastest-growing manufacturing hubs in the country, Dallas–Fort Worth is feeling the strain of today’s labor market more than most,” said Kristian Hulgard, General Manager, Americas, at OnRobot. “Many manufacturers here are running strong order books but simply can’t find enough skilled operators, machinists, or technicians. This roadmap event is about showing practical, proven ways automation can help fill those gaps.”

At the event, attendees will see live demonstrations of FANUC robots equipped with OnRobot end-of-arm tooling for common applications such as machine tending, material handling, assembly, packaging, and quality inspection. Automation experts, that help manufacturers move from curiosity to confident implementation, will be on hand to share real-world experience in robotics, tooling, and integration.

Featured Speakers and Sessions:

  • Kristian Hulgard, General Manager, Americas, OnRobot – Opening keynote on macrotrends affecting U.S. automation growth, why adoption is accelerating across manufacturing, and what it means for Dallas operations.
  • Brent Lindell, District Manager, FANUC America – Live demonstrations of FANUC robots, identifying the practical approach to the automation journey.
  • Ruben Lanz, Vice President, Adaptive Vision and Robotics – Learn how the right components, sourcing strategy, and distribution support keep automation projects on track.
  • Derrell Guillory, Technical Account Manager, AWC – Why system integration matters, how integrators add value, and how to reduce risk while accelerating deployment.

Registration incl. lunch is free, but space is limited.

To learn more or register, visit:
https://en.onrobot.info/industrial_openhouse

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Automate 2026 Brings Popular Humanoid Robot Forum and NVIDIA-Sponsored Humanoid Robot Pavilion to Show  https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/automate-2026-brings-popular-humanoid-robot-forum-and-nvidia-sponsored-humanoid-robot-pavilion-to-show/ Tue, 20 Jan 2026 16:51:12 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=140536 The third annual Humanoid Robot Forum will be featured as part of Automate, North America’s largest robotics and automation trade show slated for June 22-25 at McCormick Place, Chicago. Automate also will introduce a dedicated Humanoid Robot Pavilion on the show floor, sponsored by NVIDIA.
“Humanoid robotics is generating a tremendous amount of interest across the automation ecosystem,” said Jeff Burnstein, president of A3. “By bringing the Humanoid Robot Forum and a dedicated pavilion to Automate, we’re giving attendees a practical opportunity to learn where the technology stands today, what challenges remain, and how humanoids may fit into real-world applications over time.” Burnstein added that humanoid robot exhibitors in the show will also get great feedback from the tens of thousands of customers who will attend the event.
Humanoid Robotics Takes a Larger Role at Automate 2026
The Humanoid Robot Forum will remain a separate, paid conference while being co-located at Automate. The forum will take place Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons during Automate, offering in-depth programming focused specifically on humanoid robot development, deployment, and enabling technologies.
On the Automate exhibition floor, the Humanoid Robot Pavilion, sponsored by NVIDIA, is planned as a free-to-attend experience for all Automate show attendees. In addition to demos, the pavilion will feature a theater for humanoid robot exhibitors to give presentations on their products throughout the show.

About Automate 2026

Automate 2026 is expected to bring together upwards of 50,000 automation professionals from manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, energy, and other sectors as well as the general public to explore the latest advances in robotics, artificial intelligence, machine vision, motion control, and industrial automation.

Additional details, including conference programming, registration options, and exhibitor information, can be found atwww.automateshow.com.

About Association for Advancing Automation (A3)

The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) is the leading global advocate for the benefits of automating. A3 promotes automation technologies and ideas that transform the way business is done. Members of A3 represent more than 1,450 manufacturers, component suppliers, system integrators, end users, academic institutions, research groups and consulting firms that drive automation forward worldwide.
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World premiere: Dürr installs its Paint Shop of the Future for CEER https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/automated-cells/world-premiere-durr-installs-its-paint-shop-of-the-future-for-ceer/ Tue, 13 Jan 2026 13:47:18 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=140442 Dürr is building an innovative and sustainable paint shop for CEER, the first Saudi automotive company and Saudi-born EV brand. The order was placed back in 2023, and the project is currently in the installation phase. AGVs will transport car bodies flexibly between stations based on demand in the modular system. The latest application technology paints the interiors and exteriors of electric vehicles in the same box. In addition, there will be boxes for fully automatic two-tone application without overspray. High-tech and sustainability go hand in hand. Dürr supplies the latest generation of ovens which, combined with electric exhaust air purification systems, save energy and reduces COemissions. The new facility will be one of the most advanced painting factories in the automotive world.

For the first time, Dürr is fully implementing its Paint Shop of the Future concept at CEER. The modular design includes the latest innovations to drive complete automation. The plant uses digital solutions from Dürr’s DXQ product family to reduce downtime and maximize system efficiency. The new system at CEER Manufacturing Complex located in the King Abdullah Economic City will begin production in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Efficient high-tech products benefit the environment

Dürr
State-of-the-art technology: Dürr’s paint shop of the future.

CEER relies on Dürr’s new generation of ovens. EcoInCure heats the body from the inside to reach massive body components more directly. This is particularly advantageous for electric vehicles, as they require – among other things – well reinforced rocker panels to protect their batteries in the event of a side impact while simultaneously preventing overheating in thinner parts of the body shell. This drying method is more environmentally friendly, reducing the required heating process time for the body by up to 30% compared to conventional systems. An Oxi.X RV from Dürr CTS cleans exhaust air from the oven using the principle of regenerative thermal oxidation (RTO). The oxidation reaction, which purify the process exhaust, occur entirely within the heat exchange media. Since the system operates using electricity, there is no open flame and therefore none of the unwanted by-products of flame combustion.

Dürr
CEER can quickly integrate new models and flexibly increase production capacity with the EcoProBooth box modular concept.

Another notable feature is Dürr’s EcoPaintJet Pro, an award-winning overspray-free painting system. CEER can utilize this to offer its customers cars with a two-tone paint finish. The EcoPaintJet Pro technology marries customer-specific product design with automated production. Bodies can be simultaneously painted with two contrasting colors, reducing paint consumption and eliminating plastic waste since the EcoPaintJet Pro does not require masking with adhesive tape. The system can also paint complex patterns such as lettering and logos.

“Innovation is a key driver of performance and sustainability in vehicle production. The paint shop of the future will deliver greater flexibility, energy and paint efficiency, and exciting premium vehicle paint finishes,” said Dr. Lars Friedrich, CEO of Dürr Systems AG. “We are pleased to have the opportunity to partner with CEER to create one of the most modern car production lines in the world.”

Flexible box concept instead of rigid painting lines

Dürr
The EcoPaintJet Pro paints a contrasting color fully automatically and without overspray.

CEER can swiftly incorporate new models and easily scale production capacity with the paint shop of the future. The key lies in implementing a modular concept, where flexible EcoProBooth boxes replace traditional lines with their rigid cycle times. In the box concept, the robots paint the interior and exterior of the car bodies in just one box. The new universal atomizer from the EcoBell4 Pro series meets the highest painting quality standards. Dürr’s EcoProFleet AGVs are constantly in motion and flexibly transport bodies between workstations and the high-bay warehouse based on demand. DXQlogistics.control, Dürr’s tailored software solution for the AGVs’ control logic, controls material flow digitally following work deck utilization, equipment, and availability.

 

Smart factory due to DXQ software

Digital solutions from Dürr’s DXQ product family turn CEER’s paint shop into an intelligent factory. The DXQcontrol modular solution is an innovative manufacturing operations management (MOM) system with a microservices architecture that delivers a high level of flexibility and consistency. The MOM comprises over 50 functionalities for manufacturing planning, execution, control, monitoring, optimization, and predictive analysis. DXQanalyze provides information based on specific systems and uses, enabling it, for example, to forecast the remaining service life of system components or to establish links between quality results and machining processes, taking transparency about the operating behavior of machines and systems to a whole new level.

Dürr
Dürr’s EcoProFleet AGVs are constantly on the move and transport car bodies flexibly as required.

“Our goal at CEER is to build a world-class manufacturing facility, setting new benchmark for efficiency and sustainability,” said James DeLuca, CEO of CEER. “This Paint Shop of the Future will place CEER at the forefront of automotive manufacturing innovation, allowing us to offer our customers in Saudi Arabia and the wider region a level of customization they have never seen before. The result will be a more environmentally friendly manufacturing process and the ability to offer customization in car colors, finishing, and intricate details that will excite the public.”

In autumn 2024, Dürr opened its subsidiary Dürr Systems Arabia LLC in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to further strengthen its customer relations in the region.

About Dürr

Dürr Systems USA has been present in the United States since 1970 and operates multiple locations across the United States, including facilities in Michigan and Wisconsin. The largest site is in Southfield, Michigan, which serves as the main center for operations. As of 2025, Dürr employs approximately 660 people across the country who support a wide range of market segments. Dürr Systems USA plans, builds, and installs complete, state-of-the-art paint shops and final assembly facilities, supported by DXQ, Dürr’s digital products suite. The company also offers advanced automated painting, sealing, and gluing application technologies, as well as high-viscosity material handling solutions. In addition to serving the automotive industry, Dürr Systems provides premium application technology products for the general industry. In the field of electrode manufacturing, Dürr Systems enhances quality, cost efficiency, and speed to market lithium-ion battery electrode coating through its advanced development and manufacturing coating systems. Committed to innovation, excellence, and customized solutions, Dürr Systems addresses the diverse needs of its North American customers with precision and reliability.

The Dürr Group is one of the world’s leading mechanical and plant engineering firms with particular expertise in the technology fields of automation, digitalization, and energy efficiency. Its products, systems, and services enable highly efficient and sustainable manufacturing processes – mainly in the automotive industry, for producers of furniture and timber houses, as well as in the assembly of medical and electrical products and in battery production. The Dürr Group generated sales of €4.7 billion in 2024 and currently has around 18,000 employees and 130 business locations in 32 countries. Since the sale of its environmental technology division at the end of October 2025, the business has been consolidated into three divisions:

  • Automotive: painting technology, final assembly, testing and filling technology
  • Industrial Automation: assembly and test systems for automotive components, medical devices, and consumer goods as well as balancing technology solutions and coating systems for battery electrodes
  • Woodworking: machinery and equipment for the woodworking industry
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KUKA Partners With Autotool for Automation Tech Day https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/training/kuka-partners-with-autotool-for-automation-tech-day/ Fri, 09 Jan 2026 16:00:04 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=140391 KUKA Robotics and its System Partner Autotool will be hosting a collaborative open house and educational seminar from February 25 – 26, 2026, at Autotool’s facility located in Plain City, Ohio. The event is a continuation of KUKA Connexions, a networking event that assembles official KUKA System Partners, integrators, and Technology Partners from across North America to educate attendees on technology and solutions that better serve their customers and make automation easier. Attendees attending the open house can look forward to valuable networking opportunities, hands-on demonstrations with emerging technology, and insightful panels from KUKA partners that can inspire new ways to improve North American business efficiencies through automation and artificial intelligence (AI).

KUKAThe Autotool Tech Day: Powered by KUKA Connexions event will equip Tier 1 suppliers, automotive OEMs, general industry and heavy machinery companies with the opportunity to learn about how KUKA Robotics is addressing the industry’s need for welding automation, part transportation and autonomous material handling. Running from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM both days, the open house will provide visitors with opportunities to explore the solutions developed by KUKA and Autotool, while the Wednesday event will host seminars to educate visitors on the ways automation is creating opportunities throughout manufacturing.

KUKA System Partners like Autotool play a central role in delivering advanced automation solutions to manufacturers across North America. As system integrators, these partners provide industry expertise while collaborating closely with customers to assess their specific automation needs. These partnerships help implement custom solutions that address operational challenges and long-term growth for KUKA customers by incorporating KUKA’s portfolio of innovative robotics and Industry 4.0 technologies.

KUKAAutotool is an experienced integrator known for engineering complete automation systems for welding, joining, material handling and dispensing. With more than 30 years of experience, Autotool has developed the expertise necessary to design and build customized automated solutions tailored to meet each customer’s unique needs.

KUKA’s welding solutions include multiple robot systems like the KR CYBERTECH nano arc Edition robot. This robotic arm is well-suited for continuous-path applications such as simple arc welding and is available with reaches ranging from 1,441mm to 1,843mm to 2010mm. The KR CYBERTECH nano ARC Edition robot handles payloads of 6 kg and installs on floors or ceilings. The standard version uses a 50-millimeter hollow wrist with bearings on one side, while the Edition robot features a hollow wrist with bearings on both sides, a diameter of 46 mm and 0.04 mm repeatability. These low-maintenance robots are known for their speed and precision, as well as their adaptable design.

KUKA’s AMR offerings include the KMP 1500P, which features intelligence, safety and easy commissioning to navigate complex, dynamic environments with the SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) navigation method. The omnidirectional AMR platform autonomously navigates loads with QR code readers, and 3-D cameras to detect obstacles for predefined routes and rigid processes. KUKA’s omniMove drive technology allows the KMP 1500s to move in any direction from a standing position. The sophisticated wheel technology ensures precise positioning with an accuracy of +/- 5mm even in tight spaces. This results in space-saving and highly precise automation solutions for logistics. KUKA also provides smaller models such as the KMP 250P for those facilities that require more compact transport systems, as well as larger models like the KMP 3000P with a payload of 3,000 kg.

All KUKA automation solutions are backed by the company’s expert service and support for training, complete system engineering and simulation, readily available spare parts, robot refurbishment and more, all of which are easily accessible through the my.KUKA.com site.

About KUKA

KUKA is an international automation group with sales of around EUR 3.7 billion and approximately 15,000 employees. As one of the world’s leading suppliers of intelligent, resource-saving automation solutions, KUKA offers industrial robots, autonomous mobile robots (AMR) including controllers, software, and cloud-based digital services, as well as fully networked production systems for various industries – primarily for markets such as automotive with a focus on e-mobility & battery, electronics, metal & plastic, consumer goods, food, e-commerce, retail, and healthcare. The company is headquartered in Augsburg, Germany.

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