Online magazine for design and development

Here you will find everything that the designer needs for his design and the development engineer for his new development, from the draft to quality assurance in production, such as new products, their applications, new technologies or research results. Company reports as well as topics on technological and megatrends in all industrial sectors complete our range of industry news. Let's start with the news.

Company News

Ebm-Papst wants to sell industrial drive technology to Siemens
The Ebm-Papst Group has announced that it will sell its Industrial Drive Technology (IDT) division to Siemens AG. Both sides have signed a corresponding agreement.
Jumo's new Sensilo plant construction is progressing
Jumo is building a factory in the technology park for the production of temperature and pressure sensors with a production area of ​​around 13 m². At around 000 million euros, the new building is the largest investment in the company's history.
3DExperience Word 2024 in Dallas
At 3DExperience World 2024 in February in Dallas, Texas, Dassault Systèmes celebrated the event's 25th anniversary. The annual user meeting supports the global community in the development of future-proof products and processes.
Michael Koch GmbH moves into a new workshop
There is now more space available in Michael Koch's “Factory” for the assembly of customer- and machine-specific safe braking resistors. The new, modern hall was recently “taken by storm” by the employees.
Elon Musk is suing OpenAI for profit-making
Elon Musk files a lawsuit against OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman, accusing them of breach of contract because the company, which was originally designed as a nonprofit, is now operating for profit.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Industry news for your design and development from the specialist areas

communication technology

communication technology

World's first Omlox testing laboratory put into operation

The first Omlox testing laboratory in the world has been launched. The PI granted the Fraunhofer Institute Lemgo approval as a PI test laboratory for Omlox.

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switch cabinet

switch cabinet

On to the intelligent drive train for predictive maintenance

The Roba-brake-checker module or the torque-measuring shaft coupling from Mayr ensure intelligent safety in smart production.

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plastics

plastics

The first 100 Igus bikes hit the streets

The first 100 Igus Urban Bikes hit the streets and an in-house production facility with a capacity of 10.000 bicycles is set up in Cologne.

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Couplings

Couplings

Torque measuring shaft coupling

The smart steel multi-plate coupling Roba-drive-checker from Mayr can do more than just transmit torque and compensate for shaft misalignment.

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INDUSTRY SPECIALS

Industry news for your design and development from the branches

food technology

food technology

Lubrication and sealing-optimized linear guide

Schaeffler presents linear guides for food technology with optimized seals, wipers and long-term lubrication units.

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Mobile Machinery

Mobile Machinery

Flexible, customizable gateway for agricultural technology

IFM Electronic is presenting the Isobus Gateway at the Hannover Messe, which is designed for agricultural equipment and can be specifically adapted.

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Energy Technology

Energy Technology

All Electric Society – vision of the future of connectivity

At the Hannover Messe Preview, Harting gives an outlook on the Hannover Messe and draws the future picture of an “All Electric Society”.

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Inverter

Inverter

Certified servo controller with Profisafe interface

At Logimat, Wittenstein is presenting a safety-certified servo controller with a Profisafe interface and integrated safety card for AGVs.

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EXHIBITION SPECIALS

Industry fair news

Hannover Messe promotes energy for sustainable industry
As a networked industrial ecosystem, the exhibitors demonstrate how climate neutrality can be achieved through the use of electrification, digitalization and automation under the guiding theme of Energizing a sustainable Industry.
Control Fair 2024 | The industry is already looking forward to Stuttgart
Control 2024, the important international trade fair for quality assurance, will take place from April 23rd to 26th in Stuttgart. The trade fair places a particular focus on automation and digitalization.
SPS Nuremberg: Now in 16 halls!
The SPS – Smart Production Solutions from November 14th to 16.11th. 2023 will see significant growth in the trade fair compared to the previous year and is on the way to pre-Corona levels.

Industrial robots are the key players in modern manufacturing. They've been around for a long time, but now you're experiencing a new evolutionary stage in which you Artificial intelligence stocked and also by new technologies like Machine learning getting smarter. Read about many innovations and examples of how industrial robotics transforms production processes and what tasks they can take on in the various industries.

ABB robot forging

Contents

 

Industrial robots 2023 – an inventory

In 2023, industrial robotics has reached a new peak. With a record number of 3,5 million units worldwide, an unstoppable upward trend is evident, which is characterized by the Digital transformation is accelerated. The most advanced models are over Artificial intelligence (AI)-controlled, energy-efficient and intuitive to use. Technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have made programmability much easier. In addition, a prepared-to-repair strategy is becoming increasingly popular. Disused robots can thus find their way back onto the market by being refurbished in special repair centers. 

The cobots are coming – are industrial robots dying out?

Will traditional industrial robots soon no longer be needed because the advantages of cobots make them superfluous? The answer, of course, is "no". If speed is required, it is still the first choice. However, the technology of cobots influences the development of industrial robots. Read, as seen in detail by the robot specialist.

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Industrial robot innovations

The latest trends in industrial robot technology are increasingly relying on artificial intelligence and machine learning. The most advanced models are now capable of completing complex tasks autonomously, without human intervention. These innovations have the potential to significantly increase efficiency and productivity in many industries. 

In addition, one of the most important innovations in the field of industrial robots is the increased integration into the Internet of Things (IoT). This networking allows robots to exchange data in real time, optimize their performance and avoid errors during processing. 

Furthermore, industrial robot innovations include an impressive range of advanced ones Sensor technologies. They enable improved perception and sensitive interaction with the environment. Robotic arme that are able to grip delicate objects without damage are already revolutionizing manufacturing processes in numerous industries.

Heavy-duty industrial robots as all-rounders

16.01.2024 | Kuka presents its new industrial robot KR Fortec. The all-rounder for heavy loads is energy efficient and dynamic in handling applications and delivers high performance in a small space. With its high dynamics, the heavy-duty robot ensures low cycle times. Thanks to its compact shape, it is ideal for work such as handling and spot welding. The energy consumption is low.

Technically the IR part of a cross-model Modularization, which stands for great permeability between the components of the KR Quantec and KR Fortec ultra robot series. The KR Fortec is up to 700 kg lighter than its predecessor and is also available with an extended arm. This means that loads of 240 kg can be handled over a range of 3700 mm.

The new robot can be operated at 0 to 55 °C and is characterized by a long, trouble-free operating time with little maintenance required. Maintenance work can be carried out quickly and easily. There are several available for harsh and dirty environments Foundry variants ready.

The working area of ​​the industrial robot can be determined by the Linear unit KL 4000 can be expanded. This is modularly adaptable between 1,5 m and 30 m. To work with the KR Fortec ultra on the same linear unit, simply choose the KL 5000.

Industrial robots with new control architecture

24.05.2023/XNUMX/XNUMX | The digital transformation ensures an increasing demand for automation solutions with a strong upward trend in robot applications. for this drastic development dusty unique robot series developed. The compact, dynamic and precise robots have a long reach. Equipped with a new control architecture including safety features and interfaces such as OPC UA they are suitable for the Industry 4.0 environment.

The 6 axis robots TX2 series work very precisely and can be used flexibly. With the compact Robotic arm and its large working area, the working space in the cell can be used very well. The robot arm is therefore ideally suited for applications such as handling, assembly, machine operation, testing, packaging, filling, cutting, washing, deburring, polishing and much more. The robot's CS9 controller offers optional SIL3-PLe safety features for high productivity and human-machine collaboration.

Stäubli exhibits at the Automatica 2023.


Scara robots for beginners in digital transformation

28.06.2022/XNUMX/XNUMX | The new Melfa RH-CR Scara robot by offer a space-saving solution for those new to the Robotic. The industrial robots are particularly suitable for companies that are currently moving into... Automation and digital transformationstart. 

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Fruitcore Robotics sends Horst to Motek and FMB

24.08.2021/900/600 | With its Horst robot family, Fruitcore Robotics offers smart robot solutions with innovative kinematics for entry into the automation of flexible production. It now has three members, Horst 1400, Horst XNUMX and Horst XNUMX. With the HorstFX control, they can be digitally programmed intuitively, like with a smartphone app. At trade fairs like the Motek, users can easily Coding try out.

At Horst900, trade visitors to Motek can find the easy robot programming of the industrial robot. The Fruitcore experts from Constance will be showing two practical scenarios of automation live. For example, the Horst1400 industrial robot will palletize cardboard boxes in a larger radius for parts handling. With a range of 1400 mm and a payload of up to 12 kg, the largest Horst robot is suitable for order picking, loading and unloading of machines or lattice boxes, among other things.

The modular small robot Horst600 was designed for applications with little space. It has a footprint of 382 x 200 mm and offers a reach of 578 mm. Metal processing, logistics or in the plastics industry are its areas of application. Typical tasks there are pick-and-place automation, palletizing or loading and unloading machines. At the Motek, version 600 will be a Bin-picking solution demonstrate.

Service expanded to include industrial robot Horst

Sep 24.09.2020, XNUMX | Fruitcore Robotics is expanding its online offering for the Horst industrial robot with digital services: the Fruitcore Shop and the robotics portal Horst Cosmos. Both digital offers complement the previous services and offer users many new options. Horst is a powerful industrial robot with 6 axes and a new kinematic approach.

In the clearly arranged Shop From Fruitcore Robotics in Constance, users can find out more about the Horst600, 600lab, 900 and 1400 robots and thus get to know the whole family. Robots that are suitable, inexpensive and easy to use can also be ordered quickly and directly for the application. This is how you get started with Automation particularly easy.

Fruitcore breaks into the Horst Cosmos

The Horst Cosmos robotics portal was also put online. The platform serves as a Interface for easy interaction between users, partners and Fruitcore. At the start of the platform, interested parties can test the HorstFX Web software for 15 days free of charge. The advantages of intuitive operation can also be discovered in this way.

Data sheets and technical documentation can also be downloaded. Videos and tutorials provide information on topics related to simple automation with the Horst family. Next, Fruitcore is expanding the Horst Cosmos with a chat function, additional apps and practical services.


ESD certified robots for handling electrical components

11.05.2020/XNUMX/XNUMX | uncontrolled electrostatic discharges, ESD for short, endanger product integrity. For such applications Mitsubishi Electric The “Melfa robots” of the FR series underwent a demanding type approval process to obtain ESD certification.

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Trends in materials testing with robots

13.01.2020/XNUMX/XNUMX | Because even the smallest disturbances in the test process have a strong effect on the measurement results, the non-destructive and destructive Materials testing on components is increasingly automated. Here, robots ensure that the samples are positioned and the test procedures are always the same. They also relieve qualified employees of time-consuming and monotonous tests. Zwick Roell offers extensive solutions for the automation of tests on materials with various properties.

The permanently installed robot systems of the “Robotest” series are very successful Series tests by. Thanks to extensive sample magazines with different properties, they are very well suited for long test procedures - hundreds or even thousands of test objects are processed independently magazine by magazine. This is done in a fixed connection with one or more non-destructive or destructive testing machines. Employees fill the magazines. Samples in question will be collected for manual inspection. This saves the employees the monotonous assembly line inspection and gives them time for more complex tasks.

Automated material testing at Zwick Roell

Based on this standard, Zwickroell offers project-related equipment for fully automated test laboratories for testing materials. The samples are only labeled. A conveyor belt transfers them to the robot, which sorts them into different magazines. Driverless AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) transport vehicles, for example, bring the samples to the correct test system. There is a automated testingbefore the robots pick them up again.

The automated Test laboratory not be spatially contracted. The AGVs navigate reliably and safely during normal operations. The individual robot test systems are also set up safely, spatially or with protective devices, as required. This means that they do not pose a risk to employees.


Robotic grippers, EOAT, gripper kits for cobots and industrial robots


New possibilities for material testing open up with Robotest N-Robot: Due to the integration into the Zwickroell software world and thanks to the simplest programming, the lightweight robot is suitable for small series tests from ten samples. The test assistant can carry out almost any pick-and-place task. The plant can be adjusted by forcesensors in the joints, after consultation with the laboratory safety officer, operate it without protective equipment. Universally applicable and mounted on a mobile base, Robotest N can be used quickly on different machines and systems.

Industrial robots in use

from food to medical technology, you will find industrial robots for special applications below:


Industrial robot for the chocolate factory

08.05.2023 | "Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're going to get," said Forest Gump, apparently having never heard of Mitsubishi Electric. Because in contrast to the adventures of the film hero you know at Mitsubishi Electric exactly, what you get.

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Laboratory robot Agamede in Sars-CoV-2 diagnostics

March 02.03.2022, XNUMX | The robot Agamede was developed at the Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences (ICHB PAN) with the participation of technology partners Mitsubishi Electric, Perlan Technologies and Labomatica for applications in the laboratory automation

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ABB robots accelerate production of solar panels

27.05.2021/XNUMX/XNUMX | In order to enable the change to a sustainable society and to conserve resources, the production of Solar collector Fields be precise, energy efficient and inexpensive. Absolicon and ABB have developed the world's only complete solution for the mass production of concentrating solar collectors in Härnösand, Sweden. With the ABB robot it only takes six minutes to manufacture a solar collector.


The whole world of igus robots


Thanks to the high degree of automation through the use of ABB robots, the Swedish company was able to increase the production of its solar technology considerably. Absolicon has equipped its production line with two ABB industrial robots type IRB 4600 robots a solar collector field every 6 minutes runs off the line. In the previous manual process, on the other hand, only three units could be produced per day.

ABB robots offer an alternative to heating technology

“The newly developed automated manufacturing process enables us to implement our business goals, as we can now significantly reduce the price of our solar collectors while maintaining a high and constant manufacturing quality. For us, the productivity of ABB robotics means that for the first time we can offer a product for the generation of solar energy that can compete in price with conventional industrial heating technology, ”said Absolicon CEO Joakim Bystrom “Our new automated production line takes just six minutes to produce a complete solar panel. In contrast to our competitors, who rely on a labor-intensive, manual manufacturing process, we only need five workers, two industrial robots and significantly fewer components.

Absolicon has been developing for 20 years sustainable solar technology and produces highly efficient parabolic trough collectors. These generate heat and steam up to a temperature of 160 ºC for industrial companies and district heating networks.

“We are pleased that ABB's robotics will improve the productivity, quality and cost-effectiveness of Absolicon’s manufacturing line and that the company can now bring a renewable energy product to market at a competitive price,” said Sami Atiya, Head of ABB's Robotics & Manufacturing Automation division. “Our robotics solutions allow Absolicon to increase its production from three units per day to one unit every six minutes. They enable the uninterrupted production of solar collector fields at Absolicon’s production partners all over the world and thus make an important contribution to the global switch to sustainable technologies. ”

Cost effective mass production of solar panels

“We want to make the cost-efficient mass production of solar panels possible all over the world in order to Heat directly from sunlight to produce, ”added Byström. “Our collaboration with ABB in developing this automated manufacturing process is key to making this vision a reality. ABB's global service network will be a valuable resource for our new customers as we roll out our new automated production line worldwide. "


Drives for extending and retracting a solar folding roof


In the next phase of the IRB Robot project, Absolicon manufacturing partners all over the world are equipped with complete robot-supported production lines. ABB and Absolicon have also agreed to work together on the development, sales and global marketing of the new production line.

The first system has already been delivered to a partner in China. Framework agreements on the purchase have been concluded with companies in a dozen other countries robot-assisted production lines signed. ABB will supply the robots for all new plants.


Articulated arm robots cut time in test bench for exhaust gas turbochargers in half

24.02.2021 | Hahn Automation has succeeded with a new development, the test procedure for the inline testing of Automotive components to cut in half. This requires three Articulatedtesting turbochargers overhead in a test bench. When it comes to robotics, the company from Rheinböllen relies on compact solutions from the Melfa series.

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Handling robots for efficient forklift add-on parts production

07.02.2020 | Durwen mechanical engineering GmbH has implemented a high level of automation in its production. When producing its attachments for forklifts, for example, the control of the CNC milling machines communicates directly with it handling robots from Mitsubishi Electric.

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Archive for industrial robot articles

ABB robots at Christmas time at Bloomingdale's NYC

11.12.2019 | The Christmas promotions of the well-known New York department store Bloomingdale's are legendary, and twelve are playing this year ABB robot A major role in this: In three of the twelve Christmas shop windows, ABB demonstrates how its robotics and automation solutions contribute to the so-called Visual Merchandising to take it to the next level and thus make the shopping experience more dynamic and unusual.



Industrial robots with new kinematics

02.10.2019 | Fruitcore Robotics has with Eyrie (Highly Ooptimized Robotic Systems Technology) has developed a powerful and inexpensive 6-axis industrial robot with a new kinematic approach. This does not require specialist knowledge, is quickly implemented and easy to program. The new one makes this technically possible Drive Technology and the intuitive software. It provides the user with decisive operating advantages.  

The main axes two and three on the industrial robots are driven by so-called four-link chains. That means that the Movement and power transmission not directly on the robot axes by means of a drive unit, as is usually the case - as a rule Electric motor and Transmission - takes place, but indirectly via the four-link chains.

Advantages of the kinematic approach

The Four-link chains are arranged in such a way that they allow high power transmission if the position of the robot requires it. This also applies as soon as the gear ratio is reduced when the power is not required. In addition, the rods of the four-link chains divert some of the forces onto the structure, which means high system rigidity with low mass. Because this mass does not have to be moved, the power of the drives can be used more efficiently.

Overall, the Horst robot can achieve the same performance data in terms of payload, range and dynamics with comparatively small drives. Programming in production is carried out with the HorstFX softwarewhich was specially developed for the supplied 13,3 inch touchscreen. 




Learning factory 4.0 for young people on industrial robots

02.07.2019 | In Reutlingen has one competence Network a training facility realized by companies in the region for trainees and students in the metal, electrical and IT departments, the essential features of the Industry 4.0 makes it tangible. The system consists of two parts robot types from Mitsubishi Electric with different kinematics. 

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IP69 robot for high pressure water jet cleaning

June 26.06.2019, 6790 | The IRB XNUMX is the newest Foundry Prime robot in the ABB portfolio. It offers protection class IP69. All surfaces of the robot are coated or made of stainless steel to prevent corrosion. This makes it suitable for washing and cleaning applications with 100% humidity.

Seals made from the highest quality poly and elastomers protect the robot from alkaline cleaners. The high flexibility of the IRB 6790 enables the cleaning of different part geometries in one and the same cell without changeover times, which supports individual series production for automobile manufacturers for original equipment manufacturers and their suppliers.


Robot drives for the rapidly growing market


In addition to greater flexibility and productivity, the IRB 6790 reduces maintenance effort in harsh environmental conditions by up to 60%. It also enables higher speed, an average 5% faster cycle time and 15% lower energy consumption. The robot is available in two versions: with a load capacity of 205 kg and a reach of 2,80 m and with a load capacity of 235 kg and a reach of 2,65 m.


New safety functions for industrial robot series

25.02.2019 | Mitsubishi Electric offers a variety of new, relevant safety innovations such as the safety option Melfa Safeplus II. This allows the speed of the robot to be controlled independently in the individual working planes (x, y and z).

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Scara robot for assembly and handling

20.07.2011 | Epson presents the LS series, a new series of particularly efficient Scara robots. The first available model in the range has a reach of 400 mm and a nominal load capacity of 1 kg and a maximum of 3 kg. The robot family is available in either standard or cleanroom configuration. Parallel to the Epson LS robots, the new Epson RC90 controller is being launched, which is based on the successful RC controller family.

It offers standard interfaces such as USB, Ethernet and 24/16 I/O channels and is very suitable for thanks to its compact dimensions smaller work cells. The robot family is suitable, for example, for the production and assembly of smaller components such as electronic assemblies, particularly in applications such as assembly, alignment, transport and other typical pick & place operations.

Epson developed the new Scaras based on customer requirements for fast, precise robots particularly low costs. A key driver for Epson's developments is its approach to satisfying its customers. This will continue to be the guiding principle of all Epson ventures in the future. Epson Smart Motion technology allows fast and vibration-free movements with relative repeatability of 0,01 mm (J1 + J2), 0,01 mm (J3), 0,01 ° (J4).


Trends for robots and automation in packaging technology

03.12.2018 | Also the Packaging Industry adapts to changing market requirements. The industry is increasingly relying on solutions such as: artificial intelligence. Malte Schlüter from Mitsubishi Electric gives an insight into where the industry is heading.

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Frequently asked questions

What are industrial robots?

An industrial robot is a high-tech and programmable machine used to automate a wide variety of production processes. From assembly and material handling to welding and quality control, industrial robots increase the productivity, accuracy and efficiency of production processes. They can perform complex tasks and become increasingly intelligent through the use of Artificial intelligence and machine learning. The ongoing development of this advanced technology is driving Industry 4.0 and transforming modern manufacturing.

Who was the world's first robot?

The world's first robot was developed in the 1950s and was called Unimate. Invented by George Devol and further developed by Joseph Engelberger, the Unimate is considered Pioneer in the history of robotics. As the first industrial robot, it revolutionized the manufacturing industry by taking on repetitive and dangerous work as its first task. Unimate found his first job in 1961 at the General Motors plant in New Jersey, where he removed red-hot metal parts from a press - a milestone in the world of Automation.

What types of industrial robots are there?

Industrial robots are used according to the kinematics distinguished. Articulated robots include:

  • Palletizing robot with 2 or 4 rotary axes
  • Portal robots, also known as linear robots, have 3 linear axes
  • Scara robot with 3 axes and a linear axis
  • Articulated arm robot with 5, 6 or 7 axes (6 axis robot)
  • Dual-arm robot with 15 axes (7 each + one linear axis)
  • Lightweight robot also called LBR, collaboration with people without shelter possible
  • Delta robot with 3 axes (parallel kinematics)
  • Hexapod robot with 6 linear axes (parallel kinematics)

What are the latest figures about industrial robots?

According to the reports of International Federation of Robotics (IFR), industrial robotics set new records in 2021. With impressive sales of over 517.000 units, the industry is showing a clear upward trend. China leads global demand, followed by the US, Japan and Germany. While the automotive industry continues to account for the lion's share of robotic application, other industries like the Foodand beverage industry, logistics and health care have seen strong growth in the use of industrial robots.

Who are the manufacturers of industrial robots?

New developments and advances in robotic technology are constantly introducing new players to the market, expanding the spectrum of industrial solutions. manufacturers of industrial robots including the following:

  • ABB offers a wide range of robots for various industries, including collaborative robots (cobots) like the Yumi, which are designed to work with humans.
  • Cloos specializes in welding robots and welding systems and is characterized by high precision and quality.
  • Comau is known for its integrated automation solutions that combine robotics, assembly systems and manufacturing processes.
  • daihen offers welding robots and systems with advanced welding technologies that improve efficiency and quality.
  • Denso focuses on robotics solutions for the automotive industry and is known for its precision robots and automated assembly lines.
  • Dry is an expert in painting robots and offers comprehensive solutions for automotive and industrial painting.
  • Epson produces Scara robots that are characterized by high speed and precision.
  • fanuc is one of the largest manufacturers of industrial robots in the world and stands for high reliability and advanced control technology.
  • Igus offers maintenance-free and long-lasting robot systems such as the Rebel and robot arms from the Robolink series.
  • Kawasaki produces industrial robots for various applications and is characterized by robustness and accuracy.
  • Kuka is a leading provider of industrial robots, offering both traditional industrial robots and collaborative robots.
  • Mitsubishi Electric manufactures industrial robots and cobots known for their precision and versatility.
  • nachi offers high-speed robots for assembly and handling that are fast and precise.
  • Neura Robotics specializes in robots for logistics and material handling applications.
  • Omron offers collaborative robots and robotics solutions for the electronics and food industries with a focus on safety and usability.
  • Panasonic provides robots and automation technology for various industries, including electronics and food.
  • dusty is known for its six-axis robots and robotics solutions for the automotive, electronics and food industries.
  • Universal robots is a pioneer in collaborative robotics, offering flexible cobots for a wide range of applications.
  • Yaskawa is a leading manufacturer of industrial robots and emphasizes its high performance and robustness for industrial applications

How much does an industrial robot cost?

The cost of an industrial robot varies depending on the type, functionality and manufacturer. Simple models start at a few thousand euros, while highly specialized robots can run into the six-figure range. In addition to the purchase price, installation, training and maintenance costs must also be taken into account in order to achieve this Total budget to determine.

Which robots are there in industry?

There are different types of robots in industry that perform specific tasks in different industries. These include assembly robots, welding robots, palletizing robots and Scara robots. Their functions range from precise component assembly to automated welding to product packaging. Thanks to their efficiency and accuracy, they significantly optimize industrial processes.

What is meant by a robot?

A robot is a programmable machine that can perform tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously. Often replicated in human-like or specialized form, robots combine sensors, software and mechanics to optimize tasks in various industries. They revolutionize processes from manufacturing to healthcare.

What does the word robot mean literally?

The word “robot” comes from Czech and literally means “worker” or “forced laborer”. It was first published by Karel Capek used in his 1920 drama RUR (Rossum's Universal Robots). Čapek used the term to describe artificially created life forms that performed human labor.