Blog
Welding Robots
The high cost, minimal flexibility and programming complexities of robotic welding cells have historically prevented smaller job shops and manufacturers from considering automated welding as a viable part of the production process. However, with a shrinking skilled workforce, more companies are assigning their welding experts to oversee multiple robotic welding cells. According to the American Welding Society, 40% of manufacturing companies have been forced to decline new contracts due t
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Nov 15th 2017
Factory Optimization with Machine Tending Robots
The most common usage of the term “machine tending” is loading and unloading a machine with parts or materials. Since those entering the workforce are becoming less and less interested in positions with this activity, more companies are installing robots to compensate for the smaller pool of potential operators.
A robot can insert raw material into a machine, initiate the activity, and remove the finished item once the activity is complete. The robot does not need to take a smoke break, use
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Nov 1st 2017
Kobe Bryant's Bizzare Connection to the Future of Robotics
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics was founded in 1989 with the mission to inspire young people in STEM fields and today provides a mentor-led program that promotes competition, creativity and teamwork.
This week, Automation Distribution representatives introduced collaborative robots to the FIRST Robotics team at Lower Merion High School, Kobe Bryant’s alma mater. The team participates in complex competitions each year, which require the time c
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Oct 27th 2017
Disney’s New Huggable Robots
Martin Buehler, Executive R&D Imaginer at Walt Disney, took the stage at RoboBusiness 2017 to encourage all organizations to prepare for a future in robotics by stepping outside their comfort zone. He urged participants to use their creativity for user-friendly design and enhancing the customer experience.
Earlier this year, Disney applied for a
patent on “soft-body” robots designed for “physical interaction with humans.”
The design specifies the inside to be filled with gas or ai
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Oct 18th 2017
Cost-Effective Enclosures
While initial acquisition costs might be more attractive on
unibody enclosures, unexpected changes that occur throughout the enclosure’s
life can derail even the most frugal of plans. Using a modular enclosure system to house
industrial drives, controls and other equipment, can reduce the risk of
downtime and unplanned costs over the long-term.
Understanding the differences between most unibody
enclosures and freestanding enclosure cabinets can help make the choice easier.
Gaskets –
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Oct 11th 2017