Automation blog
Affordable automation: Leasing cobots and mobile robots for flexibility on the factory floor
04 March, 2021 In line with the move to Industry 4.0, an increasing number of manufacturers are turning to automation as a way of streamlining processes and boosting productivity. A key aspect of this is the use of robots, often working alongside people in the factory. However, many companies might be reluctant to invest in additional automation, particularly following the economic difficulties presented by COVID-19. For manufacturers looking for an affordable solution, cost structures with leasing options are being implemented as an option to allow adaptability on the factory floor.
Four top tips for automation projects in the food and beverage industry
22 February, 2021 A challenge accelerated by the Coronavirus pandemic has seen producers having to juggle between longer term range proliferation centred on consumer demands, and range (SKU’s) reduction caused by retailers and consumers rapidly changing buying habits. Companies that break new ground by using innovative technologies not only gain agility but also reduce scrap, contamination risk, waste and losses.
Innovative cobot application improves safety at Leica Geosystems
11 February, 2021 Collaborative robot automates tray handling and improves safety and ergonomics in a hazardous working area.
Developing smart and flexible production: Norwegian university sets up new manufacturing lab packed with robots
10 February, 2021 The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) has developed a new educational laboratory in Ålesund to facilitate learning and extend the implementation of automation and robotics amongst manufacturers in the region. The lab is packed with a wide range of OMRON solutions – both hardware and software.
Powering the European automotive industry
29 January, 2021 The European automotive industry is facing strong competition from Asia, as well as the economic challenges of the pandemic. It needs to develop innovative, future-proof strategies and technologies that will boost both efficiency and sustainability. Tony Seba from Stanford University believes that by 2025, no more new vehicles with (pure) combustion engines will be sold and there will be a move towards battery or hydrogen-powered fuel cells. Meanwhile, the industry faces falling sales, increasingly strict emissions regulations, new technologies, digitisation and changing consumer needs. Companies must respond by converting their production lines; becoming more agile; and introducing innovations that provide a competitive edge.
ControlTec helps Polish hospital tackle the pandemic with a UVC mobile robot
26 January, 2021 Using an OMRON LD mobile robot, ControlTec was one of the first companies in the world to develop a sterilisation robot equipped with a UVC irradiator.
Fast and safe transport on the factory floor
18 January, 2021 Improved efficiency and seamless material supply: in Austria, Philips is automating material transport by using AMRs from OMRON.
Improved flexibility, agility and traceability with mobile robots for Normagrup
06 January, 2021 Normagrup, which specialises in technologically advanced lighting, needed to automate the transport of materials between three production areas, the assembly area and an automated warehouse. This involved moving through narrow spaces shared with factory personnel.
Mobile robot streamlines food deliveries
30 November, 2020 A whistling autonomous mobile robot has been seen recently moving around the corridors of shopping centre in Helsinki, Finland. Operated by OMRON’s solution partner Dimalog, the robot was taking part in a month-long ‘Home On-Demand’ automated courier service trial.
3 Ways COVID-19 is Impacting Logistics Operations in the UK (and what to do about it)
04 November, 2020 By Stuart Coulton, Regional Manager, OMRON UK North
Data paradise factory floor: get more out of your machine and production information
25 September, 2020 Strategic Data Science is an essential pillar of every Industry 4.0 scenario. A four-step data mining approach based on CRISP-DM supports successful projects.