Cobots – IndMacDig | Industrial Machinery Digest https://industrialmachinerydigest.com The Industry's Most Extensive Industiral Digest Fri, 05 Sep 2025 14:42:26 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/newIMDWeb-100x100.png Cobots – IndMacDig | Industrial Machinery Digest https://industrialmachinerydigest.com 32 32 Güdel Highlights CoboMover™ for Expanded Cobot Work Envelopes and Air-Bearing Mobility for Moving Multi-Ton Robots Without Cranes https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/cobots/gudel-highlights-cobomover-for-expanded-cobot-work-envelopes-and-air-bearing-mobility-for-moving-multi-ton-robots-without-cranes/ Tue, 09 Sep 2025 14:30:08 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=139495 From moving cobots to novel mobile automation solutions, Güdel Inc. demonstrates its unmatched ability to solve automation engineering challenges.

Güdel, an established leader in supplying reliable track units for the largest industrial robots, is expanding its offerings into the rapidly growing collaborative robot (cobot) market with the introduction of the CoboMover™. Güdel is also showcasing a novel mobile track unit to levitate large robots, utilizing air bearings.

According to market data from A3, The Association for Advancing Automation, the cobot market is approaching 25% of the total North American robot market. Güdel unveiled the CoboMover™in its Fabtech debut, a 7th-axis linear track purpose-built for collaborative and lightweight robots.

CoboMover solves work envelope challenges for cobots and small tabletop robots

“The CoboMover is designed to help integrators and end users expand the range of cobot and lightweight robot applications, with the same reliability, repeatability, and ease of use which Güdel’s global customers have become accustomed,” says Brenda Courim, Head of Sales for Güdel Inc. “The CoboMover is more than just another linear axis—it’s a game changer.”

The CoboMover extends the working range of robots up to 5 meters (16.4ft), allowing them to operate multiple workstations and perform a variety of tasks without manual repositioning. The new track is compatible with over 60 cobots and small traditional robots and offers mounting positions at 0° and 180°. The maximum payload, including robot weight, is 78 kg (172 lbs) with a drive system utilizing a toothed belt and Güdel’s HPG045 angular gearbox. Available stroke lengths include 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, and 5000 mm. The CoboMover has a maximum speed of 2 m/s and a maximum acceleration of 2 m/s², providing a repeatability of ± 0.05 mm.

Gliding on a cushion of air – moving 3 ½ tons by hand

With its reputation for robust robot track systems and heavy-payload gantries, Güdel continues to expand its range of solutions by helping automation integrators solve real-world challenges. A recent example of this was showcased at FABTECH, is a modular track system fitted with air bearings. Using just 5 psi, the air bearing solution is able to levitate the TMF-4B track and a Fanuc M900iB/280L robot - weighing over 7,000 lbs – half an inch above ground, enabling it to easily float into and out of position on a cushion of air. The solution was initially developed for aircraft painting applications, eliminating the need for cranes, high-payload forklifts, AMRs or embedded rails.

The innovation solves two major constraints: mobility within large workspaces and facility layout limitations. “This was an application-specific solution,” says Mike Peek, Marketing Manager at Güdel Inc., explaining how an integrator came to Güdel with a challenge: move a precision paint robot in and out of place without installing embedded tracks in the floor. “Our engineering team delivered a new product that allows the entire track to be moved into and out of the work cell when needed.” says Peek. 

Güdel: Active Throughout the Fabrication Industry with Power and Precision

Güdel has a long history serving the fabrication industry with innovative tools and solutions that enable reliable and productive operations. All Güdel gantry and track motion products are built around Güdel’s guideway and roller block system. With sealed cartridge bearings, the CAM follower approach to linear motion is the most reliable available, particularly designed to handle harsh environments such as demanding welding applications exposed to spatter, metal dust, base metal fragments, and carbonized debris. Unlike traditional linear bearings, the Güdel CAM follower system allows bearings to be serviced or replaced without disassembling the entire linear motion system. MTTR (Mean Time To Repair) is measured in minutes or hours, versus days for linear motion-based systems.

Güdel gantry robots, with 1 to 20 axes of motion, can be found embedded in OEM tools, tending press brakes, machine tools and other production machines. With a standard payload range from 16 to 3,125kg, Güdel gantry robots help solve the biggest application challenges. Even at the heaviest payloads, Güdel gantries deliver +/- 0.02mm repeatability.

Güdel Track Motion Units are available in both floor mount and overhead mount configurations, and are routinely applied in machine tending, welding and cutting applications. Güdel TMF (Track Motion Floor) and TMO (Track Motion Overhead) units are common in applications requiring an extended robot work envelope, to service a single large part or multiple stations in a progressive line.

Güdel supports all major traditional and collaborative robot brands, ranging from the 78kg capacity of the CoboMover, to the 22,000kg capacity of the TMF-6 track, designed specifically to handle the largest industrial robot in the market, the Fanuc M2000iA/2300, to a +/- 0.05mm repeatability. TMO overhead configurations range up to the TMO-4, able to support the Fanuc M900iA/260L with a 2,500kg dynamic payload to a +/- 0.02mm repeatability.

And finally, Güdel Metal Sheet Handling solutions range from high-speed press-to-press transfer, front of line de-stackers and end of line stackers. Güdel Metal Sheet Handling solutions routinely handle the largest sheet metal parts from automotive, appliances and other industries at speeds up to 21 ppm.

About Güdel

Güdel Inc. is the US subsidiary of Güdel Group, a global manufacturer of robotic automation products, systems, and services. Güdel supplies linear motion modules, robot track motion units, gantry robots, and components to the automotive, aerospace, logistics, heavy industrial, press automation, and power generation industries. Güdel US is headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan in a dedicated 45,000-square-foot facility, providing North American customers with engineering, design, production, and customer service support.

For more information: www.gudel.com

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]]> Universal Robots introduces its fastest ever Cobot to enable unprecedented performance in collaborative automation https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/cobots/universal-robots-introduces-its-fastest-ever-cobot-to-enable-unprecedented-performance-in-collaborative-automation/ Thu, 21 Aug 2025 19:56:02 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=139378
With unparalleled motion capability and a maximum TCP speed of 5 m/s, UR15 is the fastest ever UR cobot, enabling reduced cycle times, increased productivity and reduced costs across applications and industries. For pick-and-place applications, the UR15 delivers up to 30% cycle time improvements compared to other UR models. All the while retaining the unique UR trademarks of lightweight design and small footprint to deliver unmatched flexibility for integration in tight workspaces.
“For 20 years, we’ve pushed the boundaries of collaborative automation, making it easier, safer and more powerful for businesses around the world,” said Tero Tolonen, Chief Product Officer. “Today, we take another leap forward with the UR15, which is designed specifically to operate at higher speeds with the smoothest performance in robotics today. This makes it a seamless fit for diverse production environments and provides our vast ecosystem of partners with an opportunity to boost existing applications and to develop new, transformative solutions that will take collaborative automation to the next level.”

Combined with OptiMove, UR’s new motion control technology, those gains go even further, enhancing trajectory smoothness and ensuring consistently accurate movements – even in high-speed and high-payload applications.

UniversalPowered by PolyScope X, AI ready
UR15 runs with both PolyScope 5 and PolyScope X, UR’s industry-leading software platform, and is ready to be supercharged with AI to enable unmatched usability. The UR15 can easily be used with the UR AI Accelerator, UR’s toolkit for developing AI-powered applications. The UR AI Accelerator is developed in collaboration with NVIDIA using NVIDIA Isaac’s™ CUDA-accelerated libraries and models and running on the NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin™ system-on-module.

Designed for flexibility, efficiency and reliability
The UR15 has a payload of 15 kg (33 lbs) which can be increased to 17.5 kg (38.58 lbs) for applications with wrist-down orientation, such as palletizing. UR15 is a versatile cobot designed to empower multiple applications and industries – each with their own unique challenges where flexibility, efficiency and reliability are critical.

Three of these industries are:

  • Metal and machining, where environments can be harsh. The UR15 offers improved ingress protection, IP65, and high payload capability – combined with easy deployment.
  • Automotive, where space is tight, and flexibility is key. Here UR15’s small footprint and full work envelope delivers performance without compromising space or speed. Common automotive applications historically limited by the production speed of cobots – such as automated bin picking, machine tending and inspection – can now be significantly sped up while retaining the highest level of precision.
  • Electronics and tech, requiring precision and compact design. With cleanroom class excellence, compact form and exceptional motion control, UR15 is ready for high-speed pick and place and smooth integration with AMRs and AGVs.

Tero Tolonen, Chief Product Officer, added: “When designing our products we start with the needs of our widely diverse customer base. Each industry has a unique set of requirements which shape our approach to both our cobots and our ecosystem solutions. The UR15 will help customers to meet the challenges of today and seize the opportunities of tomorrow.”

A cobot for every need
UniversalUR15 joins the UR20 and UR30 in UR’s new high-performance series, the UR Series, designed for those who need higher payloads, advanced capabilities and certifications for demanding environments.

“We’ve also updated our trusted e-Series,” said Tero Tolonen, explaining how the UR5e gets a 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs) payload upgrade to unlock more potential in existing setups and that the UR10e, which already carries 12.5 kg (27.55 lbs), will be renamed. “And to better reflect their capabilities, we’re introducing new names: UR7e and UR12e. Same versatility and trusted performance, but clearer names and more power where it counts.”

In addition to UR7e and UR12e, the e-Series also consists of UR3e and UR16e.

UR15 is available for orders now with shipping to begin in June. UR7e and UR12e are ready for immediate delivery.

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]]> Global collaborative robot shipment growth drops to new 13.8% low in 2024, with demand strengthening from 2025 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/cobots/global-collaborative-robot-shipment-growth-drops-to-new-13-8-low-in-2024-with-demand-strengthening-from-2025/ Thu, 17 Jul 2025 16:37:51 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=139015
  • 2024 was a new low for cobot shipment growth, dropping to 13.8% due to weakening manufacturing demand
  • Recovery is forecast for 2025, with anticipated growth of 20.6% and strong market expansion out to 2029
  • Growth is expected to be driven by improving semiconductor, logistics and electronics industry demand

    • Despite initial projections that the global collaborative robot (cobot) market would bottom out in 2023, cobot shipment growth hit new lows in 2024, falling to 13.8%, according to new data from Interact Analysis. The market intelligence specialist reports the market has come under increasing pressure over recent years amid ongoing economic headwinds and supply chain disruptions. Fluctuations in the rate of expansion indicate the market’s sensitivity to macroeconomic conditions. However, a return to stronger growth is expected, with 2026 (23.9%) marking the strongest growth year for shipments during the forecast period out to 2029.

    Stronger growth looks set to return to the global cobots market from 2025

    While Interact Analysis forecasts early signs of revival ahead of predicted high growth from 2026-2029, there has been a significant structural shift reshaping the entire cobot market landscape. Both non-manufacturing and new energy sectors have emerged as key pillars for the market, with both maintaining stable demand. Meanwhile, the semiconductor and electronics industries, which have traditionally been strong market end-users, have started to generate significant orders as they move into a recovery cycle.

    Two of the most common applications within the manufacturing industries include material handling and assembly. Together, they account for approximately 50% of cobot market revenues in 2024. Downstream industries are also showing strong demand for collaborative robots. Testing and inspection both showcased application growth rates above 20% in both 2023 and 2024.

    China could reach 70,000 cobot units by 2029

    Since 2023, China has accounted for over half of global cobot shipments and shipments are predicted to reach almost 70,000 units in 2029. EMEA and the Americas will maintain a stable but more modest market share. The biggest end-user industry for the global cobot market is automotive, but electronics remains the largest for China. Approximately one-third of all collaborative robots sold in China in 2023 went into the electronics industry.

    In 2024, price reductions in China, among other factors, led to global collaborative robot revenue growth remaining stuck in single digits. In the European market, revenue contributions dropped due to macroeconomic challenges, while the US market faced economic uncertainty and concerns relating to tariffs are continuing to constrain the market.

    Maya Xiao, Research Manager at Interact Analysis, says, “2029 cobot revenues are now expected to reach approximately $2.5 billion. The core growth drivers remain labor shortages and rising labor costs, E-commerce expansion, the shift toward flexible manufacturing, and increasing cobot adoption in the service sector. These trends show no signs of weakening, underpinning a highly positive long-term outlook. Cobot shipments are expected to sustain a strong annual growth rate of 15%–20% through to 2029 at least.”

    About the Report

    In this report, we provide insight and analysis into the collaborative robot industry, focusing on collaborative robot arms used in manufacturing, logistics, and other applications.

    The Premium edition of the report also includes a country-level analysis (by country / by industry / by payload), a mid-year update to all region level forecasts and a quarterly market movements tracker.

    About Interact Analysis

    With over 200 years of combined experience, Interact Analysis is the market intelligence authority for global supply chain automation. Our research covers the entire automation value chain – from the technology used to automate factory production, through inventory storage and distribution channels, to the transportation of the finished goods. The world’s leading companies trust us to surface robust insights and opportunities for technology-driven growth.

    To learn more, visit www.InteractAnalysis.com.

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    ]]>         KUKA to Showcase Automated Machine Tool Tending, AMR-based Intralogistics and Additive Manufacturing Solutions at CMTS 2025 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/cobots/kuka-to-showcase-automated-machine-tool-tending-amr-based-intralogistics-and-additive-manufacturing-solutions-at-cmts-2025/ Thu, 17 Jul 2025 15:45:25 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=139010 Canadian Manufacturers will experience the future of automated manufacturing as KUKA Robotics brings the latest robotic solutions for automated machine tool tending, AMR-based intralogistics, and robotic additive manufacturing to the Canadian Manufacturing Technology Show (CMTS) from September 29 – October 2 at the Toronto Congress Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. In booth #729, KUKA will illustrate how robots drive productivity in today’s machine shops by automating the feeding of machine tools and the flow of materials between machines. The mini factory in the booth consists of two lathes, each fed by a different KUKA robot in System Partner Waybo’s pre-engineered cells. A KMP 600P AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot) moves materials and tools between the cells as required by the production schedule. In addition to the mini factory, a KUKA robot in System Partner Dyze Design’s additive manufacturing cell leverages its high precision and reach to 3D print plastic parts.

    KUKAVisitors to KUKA’s booth will see Waybo’s turnkey CyberDrawer automated drawer feeding system that uses a KR CYBERTECH industrial robot to load and unload a Nakamura-Tome CNC lathe from Elliott Matsuura Canada in a pre-engineered cell. The CyberDrawer is compatible with most machine tools, is quick to install, and allows shops to easily move it from machine to machine, providing more than eight hours of autonomous operation for lights-out production. The KR CYBERTECH series offers high-performance industrial robots designed for handling, assembly and machining applications with exceptional speed, precision and flexibility. Featuring compact designs and high payload capacities, these robots are optimized for space-saving operation in various manufacturing environments.

    The other Waybo pre-engineered cell is the compact PartNR that uses a KR AGILUS industrial robot to feed a Siemens-controlled lathe. The uniqueness of this cell is that the Siemens 828D controller controls both the lathe and the robot via KUKA’s mxAutomation and Siemens’ Run MyRobot / Handling, providing factory personnel with a single and familiar interface, not just for operation, but also for programming and diagnostics.

    KUKAThe third component of the mini factory is the KMP 600P mobile platform for autonomous material handling that transports parts and tooling between the CyberDrawer and the PartNR cells. The KMP 600P is KUKA’s most compact high-performance AMR, is ideal for confined production spaces and offers a 600-kg payload for efficient material transport, process linking and reliable point-to-point delivery. This autonomous mobile robot provides an excellent performance-to-price ratio and is capable of 24/7 operation with extended battery life.

    KUKA System Partner Dyze Design’s additive manufacturing cell will feature a KR CYBERTECH-2 robot in live plastic part printing demonstrations. The partner’s advanced Typhoon high-flow filament extruder integrated with the KR CYBERTECH-2 ensures precise, fast and consistent material deposition results. The six-axis KR CYBERTECH models are rated for payloads ranging from 8 to 22 kg with reaches of 1,612 to 2,013 mm while providing repeatability of ±0.04 mm. They are a compact, multi-function robot with optimized controller structures that make for smooth and sensitive motion characteristics on the path and in positioning. With the ability to be mounted in virtually any position – floor, ceiling, wall or angle – and its streamlined design, the KR CYBERTECH is ideally suited to space-saving cell designs.

    As with all the company’s automation solutions, those shown at CMTS 2025 are backed by KUKA’s expert service and support for training, complete system engineering and simulation, readily available spare parts, robot refurbishment and more. All these features are easily accessible through the my.KUKA.com site, and KUKA maintains corporate offices and production operations, along with integration partner facilities, conveniently located throughout North America to provide responsive customer service and support.

    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, with several local offices throughout North America, including Mississauga.

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    ]]>         Universal Robots offers new low-level torque interface to empower research and innovation https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/cobots/universal-robots-offers-new-low-level-torque-interface-to-empower-research-and-innovation/ Tue, 10 Jun 2025 18:08:11 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=138418 Having the ability to directly control the torque of all the cobot joints opens vast opportunities for cobots to carry out demanding tasks. But even for experienced cobot users and researchers, building your own software stack to enable this is both time consuming and challenging.

     

    That’s why Universal Robots (UR) has developed a new low-level torque interface that gives access to control the target torque for all the joints of the UR cobot at 500Hz.

    “These capabilities are becoming increasingly sought after within research and education, especially for AI,” Anders Billesø Beck, VP Technology for Universal Robots, said. “With our new interface, we’re making it much easier for researchers and partners to work with direct torque control. Instead of spending a long time implementing alternative solutions, they can now focus immediately on their research or on developing new, innovative applications using the capabilities already incorporated into our PolyScope software.”

    Anders Billesø Beck sees particular potential for direct torque control in applications such as assembly and screw driving, where precise force and delicate touch can make all the difference.

    NVIDIA Robotics has had access to a beta version of the new interface to build an industry use case for gear assembly, showcasing how the torque control interface enables sim-to-real transfer.

    Read more about that here.

    UR’s Direct Torque Control interface applies to all of UR’s cobots – e-Series and UR Series – and is supported by both PolyScope 5 and PolyScope X.

    It is free and available here: https://ur.centercode.com/key/PolyScope5Beta

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    ]]>         OnRobot to Showcase Effortless Automation Deployment through D:PLOY Platform at Automate 2025  https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/cobots/onrobot-to-showcase-effortless-automation-deployment-through-dploy-platform-at-automate-2025/ Thu, 24 Apr 2025 13:33:21 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=138091 OnRobot, the world’s leading provider of hardware and software solutions for collaborative applications, will showcase its groundbreaking D:PLOY platform and latest gripper innovations at Automate 2025 in Detroit, May 12-15 at booth #3618. In collaboration with integration partner EMI, OnRobot will offer attendees hands on experience demonstrating how D:PLOY is fundamentally changing the landscape of robotic automation by fully automating the deployment of robotic applications. This will be showcased through a the live demo of a D:PLOY packaging application featuring OnRobot’s VGC10 gripper, set up rapidly in just hours with no programming. It’s collaborative automation, ready to run the same day.

    D:PLOY is the first automatic development platform for cobots and industrial robots that enables the configuration of complete, Off-The-Shelf robotic systems for high-mix manufacturing applications. With full price transparency and same-day installation, D:PLOY gives manufacturers the freedom to adapt in real time, without relying on external experts or programming – and with typical ROI in less than a year.

    “Automate is where manufacturers go to see what’s next,” says James Taylor, CCO at OnRobot. “And with D:PLOY and our Off-The-Shelf Solutions, what’s next is already here. We’re making automation a low-risk, high-reward investment – empowering businesses to deploy and redeploy on their own terms.”

    Plug & Produce – across all major robot brands 

    Visitors will also experience the benefits of OnRobot’s One System Solution: seamless integration of the company’s end-of-arm-tooling across all major robot brands, and true plug-and-produce functionality. Tool changes happen in seconds – no rewiring or reprogramming – showing how easily manufacturers can scale across new applications.

    A diverse range of OnRobot’s flexible grippers will be on display, including the new 2FG14, 3FG25, and VGP30. These tools are designed to easily automate diverse tasks, support quick workpiece changeovers, and empower operators to take control. Notably, the VGP30 high-payload pneumatic vacuum gripper is a powerful and robust solution for palletizing boxes, capable of handling cost-saving, thinner cardboard and irregular shapes and porous surfaces. It is ready for immediate deployment out of the box and features intelligent vacuum control that automatically adjusts to any box or interlayer, minimizing air usage and energy costs – ideal for high-mix palletizing applications. Additional OnRobot grippers, including the 2FG7, 3FG15, and Soft Gripper, will be showcased by EMI.

    “We look forward to showing manufacturers firsthand how our D:PLOY platform enables rapid, in-house deployment of robotic applications, leveraging our newest grippers for tangible productivity gains, all with complete cost transparency,” says OnRobot’s CCO.

    About OnRobot

    OnRobot A/S was founded in 2018 with the mission of breaking down automation barriers and bringing the benefits of automation to manufacturers of all sizes. Headquartered in Odense, Denmark, with offices spread across the globe, OnRobot is the world’s leading provider of hardware and software solutions for collaborative applications. All offerings are based on the same ‘One System, Zero Complexity’ platform, delivering a unified interfacing experience. OnRobot products and solutions are provided through more than 700 distribution partners and used in many different industries, making it easier and faster to automate tasks such as material handling, machine tending, assembly, and surface finishing.

    To ultimately deliver the company’s mission and vision, OnRobot has introduced its flagship platform D:PLOY with the aim of removing the automation complexity barrier and bringing manufacturers up to 90% reduction in deployment time.

    Learn more: www.onrobot.com

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    ]]>         Discover Fast, Easy, and Ready-to-Deploy Cobot Solutions with FANUC America https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/discover-fast-easy-and-ready-to-deploy-cobot-solutions-with-fanuc-america/ Mon, 07 Apr 2025 16:30:13 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=136398 FANUC America is simplifying manufacturing with the launch of its new web tool, allowing companies of all sizes to easily search for ready-to-go collaborative robot (or cobot) solutions that are pre-engineered, reliable and efficient.

    Offering a diverse selection of FANUC’s CRX line of cobot systems, Cobot and Go is an easy-to-navigate starting point that makes searching for pre-engineered solutions by application, robot model or Authorized System Integrator both intuitive and informative.

    Cobots have long been touted as the gateway to automation. Safe to work alongside humans, easy to program, and more affordable than industrial robots, cobots serve as the solution to many of today’s manufacturing floor challenges, even in high-mix, low-volume scenarios. When integrated into a standardized system, these systems often offer additional advantages, including occupying a small footprint, optimizing space, or maximizing flexibility by mounting a cobot to a moveable cart or autonomous mobile robot.

    “Tackling a variety of common industry challenges, today’s pre-engineered solutions offer ‘off the shelf’ standardization that has the potential to significantly accelerate customer ROI,” says Jerry Perez, manager, FANUC America. “When paired with our reliable line of CRX cobots, businesses of all types can be up and running quickly, with the added benefit of FANUC’s reliability, efficiency and customer service behind every purchase.”

    Currently available standardized solutions meet a variety of application needs, including palletizing, machine tending, welding, and inspection, among others.

    In addition to integrator-developed resources, FANUC America provides a variety of educational materials and training to support new-to-automation businesses. Interested manufacturers and customers can find cobot basic training modules on the CRX e-Learning site, as well as more technical tutorials in the all-new Tech Transfer portal—a free learning resource created by FANUC engineers.

    Offering eight years of service-free maintenance, the CRX line of cobots are safe, flexible, quick to implement, and easy to program. Available in payloads up to 30 kg, with reach of up to 1889 mm, the CRX line services all industries and can perform an unlimited number of applications. Models specific to painting, as well as food-grade cobots, are available to meet unique industry criteria.

    To learn more, visit the FANUC CRX Cobot website or new Cobot and Go selector today.

    About FANUC America Corporation

    FANUC America Corporation, a subsidiary of FANUC CORPORATION in Japan, provides industry-leading CNC systems, robotics and ROBOMACHINEs. FANUC’s innovative technologies and proven expertise help manufacturers maximize efficiency and maintain a competitive edge. FANUC America is headquartered at 3900 W. Hamlin Road, Rochester Hills, MI 48309, and has facilities throughout North and South America.

    For more information, please call: 888-FANUC-US (888-326-8287) or visit our website: https://www.fanucamerica.com. Also, connect with us on YouTube, X, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

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    ]]>         ProMat Attendees Looking to Supply Chain Tech and Leading Trends to Solve Operational Challenges and Meet Customer Demands https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/promat-attendees-looking-to-supply-chain-tech-and-leading-trends-to-solve-operational-challenges-and-meet-customer-demands/ Mon, 17 Feb 2025 15:42:22 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=112435 With ProMat 2025 just over one month away, new data on registering attendees indicates that they are looking towards automation, robotics, and AI to move their supply chains into the future. ProMat 2025 will be the largest display of what’s new and what’s next when it comes to supply chain trends, equipment and technology. As the largest supply chain event of the year, it’s the equivalent of a free four-day accelerator program for supply chain innovation.

    The ProMat theme of “where supply chain pros come together to find solutions” is ringing true with a large number of the Fortune 1000 and top 100 retailers and consumer goods firms registering to attend as teams to connect, learn and source solutions for their operational challenges.

    When attendees register for ProMat, they are asked to answer several demographic questions about their industry, product interest, buying authority, and spending plans. Below are some highlights from current ProMat 2025 attendee demographics.

    –88% have buying power

    –80% are coming to see new products and innovations

    –69% are coming to network and learn

    –38% plan on spending over $1 million over the next 18 months

    –50% are corporate or senior management

    –34% are middle management or IT/Engineering

    –68% are looking for solutions for distribution centers or warehouses supporting manufacturing

    –25% are looking for solutions for manufacturing facilities

    When it comes to product interest, ProMat 2025 attendees are looking for a broad range of equipment and technologies. However, there is a heightened interest in AI, automation, robotics, and autonomous vehicles as firms are looking to build resiliency and visibility into their operations. Looking at the current product interest from ProMat attendee registrations, we see several key themes emerging for this event:

    The Power of Data and AI for Supply Chains

    Attendees are demonstrating an increased interest in using data and artificial intelligence AI to optimize order picking routes, demand forecasting, and to identify bottlenecks. Machine learning algorithms can improve operational efficiency by continuously learning from data patterns. Leveraging this data with AI drives faster decision-making and more accurate operations by providing real-time information and actionable intelligence on operations. These important trends are of keen interest for attendees and will be big news on the ProMat show floor and are also the focus of the event’s March 17 and March 18 keynotes.

    Utilizing Automation for Connected, Scalable Warehouse and DC Operations

    Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehouse Execution Systems (WES), Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), Autonomous Forklifts, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), and Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) are now seen as interconnected solutions for facilities. Attendees are interested to see how these solutions can work together to build smarter, scalable, and more agile warehouse and DC operations.

    Collaborative and Humanoid Robots 

    Humanoid and collaborative robots (Cobots) are of keen interest due to their enhanced precision and adaptability. The ability of these solutions to collaborate safely and efficiently with human workers as they provide real-time operational data has the attention of ProMat attendees.

    Wearable Tech

    From smart glasses to headsets and advanced gloves and wrist wearables, these solutions are enhancing worker efficiency and safety. Wearables streamline warehouse workflows by removing manual steps from day-to-day processes. They also improve worker satisfaction by empowering workers with real-time information and feedback. Wearables also work to reduce worker strain as they monitor physical activity, location, and health.

    In addition to ProMat’s 1,200 exhibits, the event includes a conference with four keynotes and over 200 educational sessions. This powerful combination of exhibits, education, and networking makes ProMat an event like no other, one that will give you the tools and knowledge you need to sharpen your competitive edge and take your operations to the next level of excellence in 2025 and beyond.

    If you work in the supply chain, you really can’t afford to miss ProMat. To get started, visit promatshow.com to learn about all the ProMat has to offer you and your team. You can also access free registration for you and your team.

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    ]]>         Oxipital AI Partners with Stäubli Robotics https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/robotics/oxipital-ai-partners-with-staubli-robotics/ Thu, 05 Dec 2024 18:10:19 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=81576

    Oxipital AI, a leader in AI-enabled machine vision technologies for robotic process automation and product inspection, announced today it has teamed with Stäubli Robotics.

    Stäubli Robotics is honored to become Oxipital AI’s first Preferred Partner, said Mathias Konne, at Stäubli Robotics.

    Combining Stäubli’s hygienic robots and Oxipital AI’s inspection and picking solutions — two cutting-edge technologies — creates maximum efficiency, ensuring consistent and food-safe production without depending on human labor for profitability.

    “Stäubli Robotics is honored to become Oxipital AI’s first Preferred Partner,” said Mathias Konne, North American Business Head at Stäubli Robotics. “This milestone recognizes the previous joint efforts and existing collaboration between our two industry-leading organizations while paving the way for an even brighter and bolder future. With this official recognition, and along with our common partners, we continue to deliver robotic systems offering the highest value and technological advancements to our clients.”

    “This partnership with Stäubli solidifies our joint efforts in helping manufacturers overcome some of the most difficult challenges in food processing by utilizing AI-enabled vision solutions paired with hygienic, high-speed robotic solutions,” stated Harley Green, Vice President of Strategic Accounts.

    Oxipital AI will demonstrate its Visual AI solutions to the poultry and protein industry in January 2025 at the International Production and Processing Expo in booth B49033.

    About Oxipital AI

    Oxipital AI is a leader in AI-enabled machine vision technologies for robotic process automation and product inspection in critical industries such as food processing, agriculture, and consumer goods production. The company’s mission is to deliver actionable insights through deep object understanding to customers as they embrace Industry 5.0 and unlock previously unachievable levels of resiliency, efficiency, and sustainability in their manufacturing operations.

    More information can be found at www.oxipitalai.com.

    About Stäubli Robotics

    Stäubli Robotics’ unique product portfolio contains 4 and 6 axis industrial robots, cobots, mobile robotics, and Automated Guided Vehicles. The powerful, high precision solutions allow clients in many demanding industries to tackle the challenges of Industry 4.0 under specific manufacturing conditions.

    More information can be found at www.staubli.com/us/en/robotics/industries.html

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    ]]>         Advanced Laser Cleaning Robotic Workcells Turbocharge Industrial Processes https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/safety-maintenance/advanced-laser-cleaning-robotic-workcells-turbocharge-industrial-processes/ Thu, 03 Oct 2024 18:31:22 +0000 https://industrialmachinerydigest.com/?p=80913 Today, advancements in industrial laser cleaning automation show great promise in boosting productivity and safety when rust and contaminant removal or surface preparation is required for higher volumes of components and equipment.

    Specifically, combining lasers and advanced robotics within enclosed workcells enables operators to efficiently and repeatedly clean components of different sizes, shapes, and materials on a level previously unattainable through manual methods.

    “Automated laser cleaning systems are designed to cost-effectively clean high volumes of even the largest format parts and equipment and can be tailored to suit the size and complexity of the parts, while eliminating concerns over operator safety,” says Wayne Tupuola, CEO, Orlando, Florida-based Laser Photonics (NASDAQ: LASE), a leading global industrial developer of laser systems for cleaning and other material processing applications.

    Industrial manufacturers frequently need to remove corrosion, grease, residue, and old coatings, or roughen the surface of metals prior to coating components and equipment. At times, contaminants or toxic substances need to be eliminated before further processing.

    The challenge is that conventional methods like sandblasting, dry ice blasting, and chemical stripping are messy, time and labor intensive including preparation and cleanup, and require costly consumables. These methods can also pose risks to applicators and the environment so are scrutinized by regulators like OSHA and EPA.

    As a much more efficient alternative, a laser cleaning robotic workcell usually consists of at least one laser-wielding robot, controllers, and safety equipment in a custom, see-through enclosure. These collaborative robots, or cobots, excel at tasks like the laser cleaning of parts which involve repetition, freeing up employees to work on other activities.

    The CleanTech Robotic Cell from Laser Photonics, for example, utilizes a robotic arm that holds a “laser gun” with cleaning, roughening, and finishing capabilities. The robotic arm is programmable via a tablet/controller where the operator would input the coordinates for material processing. The cleaning laser can be replaced with a welding or cutting laser. If required, the workcell can be split into two sections – the robot cleans on one side, while an operator installs a part to be cleaned on the other side.

    “The operator can lay out several components for cleaning over the flatbed, set the cleaning coordinates, and leave the robot processing,” explains Tupuola.

    He points to advancements in laser technology that complement and expedite the efficient cleaning of such shapes.

    “Dual axis laser technology enables the cleaning of target areas more effectively and quickly if they are complex and uneven,” adds Tupuola. “Plus, our proprietary technologies allow the laser to move in various directions and clean hard-to-reach areas.”

    Manufacturers of larger format components can find useful laser systems like Laser Photonics’ CleanTech Titan FX, which offers up to a 6’ x 12’ work envelope for automated laser cleaning, rust removal, and surface conditioning. This industrial, turnkey laser cleaning giant can operate as a standalone unit or be easily integrated into a production line environment.

    “Large format automated laser cleaning systems can expedite the processing of [applications like] automotive tire rims, molds, oil and gas flanges, or even sheets for the hull of a ship or other vessel,” says Tupuola. He notes that the size and configuration of the enclosures can be customized to accommodate the size and nature of the parts that require cleaning, with the lasers operating at a range of power levels.

    Another significant benefit to such automation is improved operator and environment safety.

    “For extra safety, our custom-tailored automated laser systems are enclosed in a Class I safety workcell. We can also integrate dust and residue collection, as well as a fume extractor that captures vapors during the cleaning of toxic substances,” says Tupuola.

    This type of advanced laser cleaning equipment is designed to accommodate rigorous safety regulations. As an example, Laser Photonics’ CleanTech systems can help businesses achieve compliance with OSHA regulations and make environmentally responsible decisions in accordance with EPA’s waste management guidelines.

    Abrasive sandblasting involves forcefully projecting a stream of abrasive particles onto a surface, usually with compressed air or steam. The silica sand used in abrasive blasting typically fractures into fine particles and becomes airborne, which can cause serious or fatal respiratory disease. Particles from the coatings, plating, anodizing, corrosion, and even lead paint being removed can also be inhaled. To avoid breathing in particulates, operators must wear full HEPA suits when sandblasting.

    With chemical stripping, harsh chemicals are used to strip metal-based objects of paint, rust, and other contaminants to bare metal – potentially exposing operators to corrosive acids and noxious chemical fumes. In addition, disposing of toxic chemicals is costly and closely regulated. Laser cleaning seeks to solve or minimize these issues.

    Unlike conventional methods, the laser cleaning systems require no consumables other than electric power, minimal labor, and minimal maintenance. The longevity and low-maintenance design of these industrial-grade robotic laser cleaning systems further adds to their value, increasing ROI, and making replacement unnecessary for decades.

    Programming the laser ablation procedure with a cobot workcell can be accomplished with a touchscreen. Generally, programming includes setting coordinates for the sample, ablation pattern, power output, and cleaning speed, according to Tupuola.

    “Installation and programming are needed, but once it’s set up, robotic cell cleaning is fast, precise, thorough, and controlled. So, it’s a very convenient, optimized process if the parts being cleaned are the same,” says Tupuola.

    Tupuola adds that Laser Photonics is now working on integrating 3D scanners into the robotic workcell. This would automate the focusing of the laser and eliminate some of the programming now done by an operator.

    While precision laser-based systems have been effectively used to remove rust, residues, contaminants, and paint, this approach commonly involves manual labor. Automated robotic laser cleaning systems provide manufacturers safer, easier, more eco-friendly options.

    To meet demand more efficiently, a growing number of manufacturers across a wide range of industries will increasingly turn to these laser systems to cost-effectively clean higher volumes of components with the control and speed required for decades to come.

    For more information on laser cleaning solutions for surface preparation, contact Laser Photonics at (407) 804-1000 or visit www.laserphotonics.com.

    About the Author

    Del Williams is a technical writer based in Torrance, California.

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