Soft Robotics Inc., a provider of soft gripping, 3D vision, and AI technologies for industrial automation, recently announced the divestiture of its gripper business assets to the Schmalz Group for an undisclosed sum. The company also announced that it has reformed as Oxipital AI, with a mission to deliver its AI-enabled machine vision technology for robotic process automation in industries such as food processing, agriculture, and consumer goods manufacturing. The company demonstrated its mGripAI for food picking at PACK EXPO 2023. “For years, our AI vision solutions have enabled the automation of labor-intensive processes in the food industry,” said Mark…
Meltio, a manufacturer of wire-laser metal deposition additive manufacturing technology (Directed Energy Deposition, DED), has announced a new partnership with Jupiter Machine Tool (JMT) - an Illinois-based organization for repairing and building CNC machine tools and models across North America. The agreement, along with an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) agreement with Union MechaTronic (UnionMT) of Taiwan, creates a global partnership dedicated to developing and selling Hybrid CNC Machines using Meltio’s wire-laser metal patented DED technology, to support the rapidly growing demand. JMT, Meltio and UMT create unique tri-lateral partnership Jupiter Machine Tool is a provider for the advanced manufacturing industry.…
B2B technology developer Nokia recently announced the launch of an inventory-counting capability for its Nokia Autonomous Inventory Monitoring Service (AIMS). The new option can enable warehouse operators to utilize autonomous drones to individually count items - such as eaches, cases, or cartons - in any racked inventory location. Nokia said warehouse shrinkage can account for 3-5% of a company’s revenue and 25% of shrinkage is due to administrative errors. This shrinkage, combined with continued pressure to fulfill orders rapidly has pushed warehouse operators to a tipping point of futureproofing and automating operations to gain a business edge. Through the cloud-based…
Mobility robot developer A&K Robotics recently deployed its new self-driving robotic pods for testing at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) through British Columbia, Canada’s Integrated Marketplace delivered by Innovate BC. The pods are designed to provide another option for passengers with varying mobility and guidance needs and those who may need assistance when traveling through the airport. Innovate BC is working with Vancouver-based A&K Robotics to develop, test, and deploy its assistive mobility technology. This project will support YVR’s and the province’s goals of creating a more accessible and inclusive future, Innovate BC said. Integrated Marketplace helps B.C. tech companies grow…
Holman Logistics recently announced a plan to implement autonomous high-reach forklifts from Third Wave Automation, at the Holman multi-client warehouse facility in Spanaway, Wash. Third Wave Automation’s autonomous forklifts offer flexibility by operating in four modes: fully autonomous, remote assist, remote operation and manual operation. The high-reach forklifts work alongside warehouse teams and utilize the proprietary AI-powered Shared Autonomy Platform, enabling a single operator to manage multiple forklifts simultaneously. Operators can execute and monitor workflows and configure warehouse zones dynamically to improve efficiency and safety. Expanded automaton for Holman from Third Wave “We are excited to explore the impact Third…
GreyOrange, a company focused on AI-driven fulfillment automation, recently announced a significant expansion of the company’s Intralogistics and Case Pick Ranger Portfolio. In response to the growing need for advanced automation offerings, GreyOrange has introduced new autonomous forklifts with the capability to handle closed pallets and manage multiple pallets or trolleys concurrently. These capabilities, according to the company, will significantly improve operational efficiency and throughput. Certified Ranger Network expands GreyOrange’s latest bots address a current market gap. The Ranger Forklift XXL for case picking and the Ranger Forklift AnyPallet for closed pallet handling offer quick go-live turnarounds within a few…
Motor and drive provider Faulhaber recently announced its linear and rotating micromotors have been integrated into Austrian automation system provider STIWA’s modular LTM-CI small-parts assembly system. Faulhaber said “compact automation” refers to the small dimensions - in the millimeter and centimeter range - of the products to be processed. The modular system can perform a whole series of consecutive production steps autonomously. Compact modules for small components manufacturing Individual parts are first fed from storage containers, separated using a shaker and correctly positioned on a conveyor system ready for the first manufacturing step. The components are then transported to the…
Intralogistics group Mecalux recently announced it has equipped Moderna Products’ warehouse in Izegem, Belgium with an automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) for pallets. The system connects manufacturing with storage areas for unfinished and finished products as well as the order picking and shipping portion of the distribution center. “We’re proud to say we manage the entire supply chain, spanning product development, production, storage, and distribution,” said Bart Bonte, Moderna Products owner and CEO. “Our priority is to use highly energy-efficient storage and production systems while maintaining our return on investment.” Rack-supported storage warehouse holds up to 12,560 pallets Moderna…
Fortune 500 global energy company Applied Energy Services Corporation (AES) recently introduced Maximo, an AI-enabled cobot that it said can enhance solar installation speed, efficiency, and safety. Maximo is an autonomous vehicle equipped with robot arms that works alongside construction teams to help meet rapidly growing renewable energy demand. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA) July 2024 Executive Summary, solar annual additions are expected to triple by 2035, and the workforce will need to nearly double. AES said its Maximo can install solar panels in less time at a lower cost than current methods, working together with on-the-ground crews…
The Heartland Robotics Cluster (HRC) recently announced the results of its latest education and training activities, spanning grade-school programs up to the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test. The HRC said it has been actively fostering innovation and education across the Midwest. From the appointment of Erin Sorensen at Northeast Nebraska Community College's iHub to the rapid progress of the iHub's construction, HRC said its partners are making significant strides in technological advancement. This summer's HRC robotics camps inspired young minds, while a new drone course pilot program is equipping educators with skills. Looking ahead, HRC said its Heartland Robotics and Automation…
