Gecko Robotics today launched the Cantilever platform, which it said integrates data from its robotic, fixed-sensor, and partner systems to help customers analyze asset health and make sound decisions. The company claimed that the software is the first of its kind. “Cantilever is designed to become the primary operating system for the physical world,” said Jake Loosararian, co-founder and CEO of Gecko Robotics. “Every day, at hundreds of customer sites around the world, our robots are keeping power plants online, military assets ready, and factory doors open. That’s only possible because our robots and fixed sensor networks are collecting data…
Last month, Rockwell Automation Inc. announced that it planned to acquire Clearpath Robotics Inc., the parent company of OTTO Motors. The companies claimed that the transaction demonstrated the strength of demand for robots for materials handling. Earlier this month, Rockwell completed its acquisition of Kitchener, Ontario-based Clearpath, which makes development platforms, and OTTO. The Milwaukee-based company is adding OTTO Motors' autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and navigation and fleet management software to its existing industrial automation offerings. It stated that the brands will give it “end-to-end autonomous production logistics solutions.” Matt Rendall, co-founder of Clearpath and OTTO, replied to the following…
Geekplus Technology Co. today announced at CeMAT Asia a mobile robot that can reach up to 12 m (40 ft.) in height. The company said the new system has already been deplyed by several major global retailers at sites in North America and Asia. “As early pioneers in the mobile robotics space, we are committed to continuous innovation to accompany our customers on their new automation journey,” stated Yong Zheng, founder and CEO of Geek+. “The enhanced RoboShuttle solution is a significant addition to our goods-to-person family, offering more choices to retailers looking for the right fit for their warehouse.”…
A week after Amazon.com Inc. provided a peek at the robots it is currently testing, Agility Robotics Inc. confirmed that Amazon's research and development center near Seattle will begin testing its Digit bipedal robot. “Digit’s size and shape are well-suited for buildings that are designed for humans, and we believe that there is a big opportunity to scale a mobile manipulator solution,” explained Emily Vetterick, director of engineering at Amazon. “Collaborative robotics solutions like Digit support workplace safety and help Amazon deliver to customers faster, while creating new opportunities and career paths for our employees.” Agility Robotics noted that the…
Autonomous mobile robots, or AMRs, can optimize the transport of materials and overall logistics in existing facilities, according to Omron Automation. AMRs can navigate autonomously, adapt to changing environments, and safely perform a range of physical tasks that are challenging for humans, said Omron. The successful introduction of autonomous mobile robots into ongoing operations requires careful consideration of existing conditions and factors, the company said. Omron described seven top things to consider: 1. Analyze the facility’s physical space. The first step to successfully integrate AMRs into existing workflows is to thoroughly analyze the physical space within a warehouse, factory, or…
Rockwell Automation Inc. has announced the latest services and systems, as well as the hardware and industrial software that it will show at Automation Fair next month. The annual innovation event will be at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center from Nov. 6 to 9, and organizers expect it to attract more than 10,000 participants from around the world. “Rockwell Automation is taking a bold step into the future at Automation Fair 2023 by introducing a diverse range of services, systems, and solutions,” stated Lisa McGregor, director of portfolio marketing at Rockwell. “These innovative offerings will empower businesses to navigate…
AutoStore yesterday announced the R5 Pro Robot, which it said is the latest version of its “field-proven” R5 robot. The Nedre Vats, Norway-based company said it designed the new robot to address the growing demand for large, high-throughput systems in e-commerce operations. “The R5 Pro offers an edge by augmenting productivity per robot during extended operations, optimizing space usage, and reducing the total cost of ownership, ultimately enhancing the customer experience while boosting profitability,” stated Carlos Fernandez, chief product officer at AutoStore. Founded in 1996, AutoStore said it develops automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) to help businesses maximize order-fulfillment…
The hospitality industry has plenty of opportunities for automation. Sidework, which has been developing robots for beverage dispensing, today closed new funding, bringing its total raised to more than $10 million. “At the end of the day, there is a massive gap between what consumers can drink at home and what’s available to them while they’re out and about,” said Rishabh Kewalramani, CEO of Sidework, in a release. “Even venues that serve premium beverages like high-end cocktails and specialty coffees constantly struggle with the amount of complexity, make time, and need for specialized labor.” San Diego-based Sidework, formerly known as…
Advantech Co. last week released a domain-focused package of robotic arm controllers—the ARK-1221L, ARK-1250L, and ARK-3534D. The Taipei, Taiwan-based company said they are designed to address the demands of the rapidly expanding market for robotic arms. The controllers “offer outstanding performance, a compact form factor, real-time capabilities, support for industry-standard protocols, and advanced analytics,” said Advantech in a release. “By using these controllers, businesses can streamline their operations, boost productivity, and gain a competitive edge in the industrial and automation sectors.” Founded in 1983, Advantech said it is a leading provider of artificial intelligence of things (AIoT) platforms and services.…
The growing demand for automation across diverse manufacturing industries is leading end-users, buyers, and suppliers to seek advances in assembly technology, systems, and products that deliver peak performance. In response to the demand for high-end assembly automation, Epson will debut new high power density SCARA robots with Epson’s GYROPLUS® Technology. These advanced robots combine a small form factor with high payload capabilities, from 4 to 20 kg and feature longer reach up to 1,000 mm. They are ideal for Cleanroom, ESD, and IP65 Washdown environments and applications. The new SCARA units feature ultra-high precision, flexibility, and integrated SafeSense™ technology to…
After the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers expect e-commerce orders to be fulfilled the next day or even on the same day. This challenge has substantially elevated the importance of warehouse responsiveness in the supply chain. Warehouse managers are facing increased pressure—and headaches—to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and meet deadlines—all while dealing with high turnover and other labor challenges. Many managers are feeling overwhelmed and, dare I say, miserable. I can’t send you a painkiller for your headache, but I can show you that you’re not alone in your warehouse woes. There are tools that can help you ease your pain.…
