ABB positions Roberta alongside YuMi with Gomtec acquisition
ABB has aquired German collaborative robot specialist Gomtec to expand its own offering in the field of collaborative robots. Gomtec’s Roberta robot (pictured right) complements ABB’s YuMi robot by expanding capabilities into higher payload applications, with YuMi focused primarily on areas such as handling smaller parts.
Gomtec’s technology platform will strengthen ABB’s development of a new generation of “safe-by-design” collaborative robots that can be operated outside of cages or protective fencing, expanding opportunities to deploy them in new applications.
Gomtec, based near Munich, Germany, is a privately held company that develops mechatronic systems combining mechanical, electrical, telecommunications, control and computer engineering for customers in diverse industries. It has 25 employees.
Gomtec’s acquisition is another step in ABB’s Next Level strategy aimed at accelerating sustainable value creation. The strategy is building on ABB’s three focus areas of profitable growth, relentless execution and business-led collaboration. The company is driving profitable growth by shifting its center of gravity toward high-growth end markets, enhancing competitiveness and lowering risk in business models.
“We are seeing an increasing trend of automation innovation where humans and robots work side-by-side in ways that weren’t possible before,” said Pekka Tiitinen, president of ABB’s discrete automation and motion division. “The addition of Gomtec to our robotics offering will help accelerate ABB’s expansion into new markets as well as our penetration of traditional industries as manufacturers pursue new ways to increase flexibility, agility and competitiveness.”
Bernd Gombert, chief executive officer of Gomtec, added: “We have found the best partner for the next step in our journey. ABB’s global reach and broad installed base, coupled with its world-class operations will help us bring innovative robots and solutions to the rapidly growing market for collaborative automation.”
Visit the ABB Robotics website for more information.
See all stories for ABB Robotics
