Blog
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
It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere: The Universal Robots Bartender
Talk about versatile. Not only does the Universal Robots cobot mimic the movements of a human, now it can appreciate a good stiff drink as well. As part of an ensemble of robotic arms outfitted with
special end-effectors, the arms are programmed to pick up glasses, fill them
with ice and then complete your beverage with the mixer of your choice and send
it on down a conveyor belt to deliver it to your seat.The “Cocktail Bot” determines which of two types of glasses
is bes
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Jul 28th 2017
Universal Robots and Robotiq Enable NYC Startup to Produce Domestic Products
In 2015, architect Brian Vallario and finance professional Gerard
Masci created a new American-made eyewear company, Lowercase, in New York City.
With most eyewear produced overseas, the pair looked to automation to reduce
production costs while maintaining a consistent quality level. Even with
limited production runs, the company desired a completely in-house production
system.“I had done a little bit of
research on robots when I was in graduate school, but I never really had any
working
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Jun 12th 2017
The Dollars and Sense of Collaborative Robots
Imagining an employee who can work 24/7, be completely
consistent in their work, never take a vacation, never complain, never get
distracted or file a workman’s comp claim sounds like a straightforward way to
figure a great return on investment in a collaborative robot. But is it really
that simple? Maybe in some cases, but it really depends on the work the robot
will do and the associated value of that work. A more in-depth analysis of the
overall situation may reveal that the robot
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Jun 2nd 2017