Addressing growing demand in sectors such as shipbuilding and steel construction, it can be carried easily with just one hand, allowing a single person to supervise multiple welding locations and mitigating the Europe-wide shortage of skilled welders.

Boasting a 3kg payload, the CRX-3iA can manipulate a welding torch and a seam-tracking sensor simultaneously, while its ±0.02 mm repeatability delivers the precision necessary for critical welding tasks. It automatically detects its installation angle after relocation and identifies weld seam locations and calculates paths accordingly, thanks to a third-party laser scanner or touch sensor. Meanwhile, an optional magnetic base enables it to be secured directly to large steel structures. This reduces system complexity compared with traditional robot installations, which typically need heavier equipment and additional safeguarding measures.

As part of the wider CRX series – which extends to 30kg payload and 1,756mm reach – the CRX-3iA integrates fully with FANUC’s established control and software ecosystem. It also incorporates FANUC’s wrist button technology, which allows operators to guide and teach positions directly from the robot arm, streamlining programming and shortening changeover times.

Beyond welding, the CRX-3iA is ideally suited to applications such as intralogistics and mobile automation. Its compact footprint and low mass also make it ideal for mounting on an automated guided vehicle (AGV), where it can support picking, placing and line supply tasks. In addition, it lends itself well to education and training environments, where space constraints often render the use of traditional industrial robots impractical.

“Manufacturers need automation that adapts to their environment, not the other way around,” says Paul Ribus, FANUC’s Head of Sales Coordination Europe. “With the CRX-3iA, we focused on portability, fast deployment and high repeatability. It allows customers to take advantage of collaborative welding and handling wherever the work is, without complex installation.”

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Designed for seamless integration into modern production environments, the new cobots support a wide range of applications, including palletising, machine tending and material handling. Their compact design enables deployment in space-constrained environments, with both external and EDGE integrated controller options supporting mobile and modular setups.

“The introduction of the KR 1824 and KR 1240 marks an important step in expanding the capabilities of collaborative robotics,” said Christoph Rieger, Chief Sales Officer at Kassow Robots. “Our unique combination of EDGE integrated controller, mobile deployment, high payload and extended reach enable more demanding applications within dynamic production environments.”

The new models also deliver improved motion performance, including 50% higher joint torque, more than 20% faster wrist joint speeds, and 40% increased mechanical stiffness. These enhancements enable more stable handling of heavier loads, faster cycle times, and improved precision in demanding applications. Key benefits include:

• Increased payload capacity for more demanding applications
• Seven-axis design for maximum flexibility and extended reach
• Automation of tasks beyond traditional cobot limits
• Compact design and light footprint for space-constrained environments
• Integrated controller option for simplified deployment and mobile integration

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Companies operating factories and warehouses can now choose from a wide variety of robots, ranging from familiar industrial types like cartesian and SCARA robots, cobots in various sizes and industrial grades, and humanoid robots are expected to begin trials in some factories soon.

Among this diversity, the cobots segment has seen sustained and growing interest from businesses keen to combine the strengths of robots with human workers, acting collaboratively, to optimise productivity. The typical cobot form factor, as a multi-articulated robot arm, has quickly become widely accepted and adopted. These robots are well adapted for picking, placing, and packing tasks. The sizes available range from compact desktop units with a reach of less than half a metre and carrying capacity of around 1kg to floor-standing sizes capable of handling larger, heavier items.

The 6-axis cobot is a popular design that can closely mimic the movement of the human arm. The 6-axis cobot comes very close to matching the dexterity of the human arm. Standardised flanges for end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) provide a practical mounting option for end-effectors whilst also simplifying interoperability and interchangeability.

While all this comes impressively close to replicating the movement of the human arm, six axes cannot capture the full range allowed by human joints. By introducing an extra 360-degree swivelling joint in the cobot’s lower limb, between the second and third axes, a 7-axis machine can more closely emulate the human arm’s abilities.

Importantly, a 7-axis machine can reach locations within the overall movement envelope that a 6-axis robot cannot touch. A critical skill is to reach around obstacles or to work on both sides of a large assembly without repositioning the workpiece. This can allow production planners and programmers extra flexibility to optimise the workspace layout and the sequence of actions for the cobot to complete the desired task.

Extending torque control

While designing this extra axis into the lower limb for greater movement flexibility, Yamaha Robotics has also integrated miniaturised joints built with a hollow shaft to further enhance the flexibility of its 7-axis cobot.

In the cobot, the hollow joints make it possible to integrate a torque sensor in each of the machine’s axes. This contrasts with typical cobot design approaches, which tend to include torque sensing only in the upper part of the machine. The extra sensors enhance overall control, permitting increased movement precision that lets the cobot address a wider range of applications.

Some examples of the diverse types of processes these cobots can handle, leveraging the extra motion data extracted from all-axis torque sensing, include mating electrical connectors, building delicate assemblies, buffing, polishing, and deburring.

Connector mating demands fine motor skills when performed by human operators in conventional production lines. With the ability to handle this complex and delicate task, the cobot can bring greater automation to assembly areas and elevate productivity in ways that have been difficult or impossible to achieve before now.

In addition, the cobot can handle processes like deburring mechanical components after machining or drilling. Also, where buffing and polishing call for delicacy as well as precision, the extra torque sensors on-board Yamaha’s 7-axis cobot let the machine polish either curved or flat surfaces with care. It is thus suitable for use in final assembly of products such as optical equipment or for handling and packing decorative items, or cleaning and drying items to restore surface finish after washing.

Cobots with torque sensing on each axis can also enhance safety by reliably and instantly detecting contact with an obstruction of any kind, such as a human worker or other obstacles in the industrial environment.

Verified safety, flexible operation

The Cobot meets functional safety standards and is certified by the independent authority TUV SUD. Prior to its official launch, Yamaha Robotics introduced the system in its primary outboard motor production site at the Fukuroi South Factory in Japan. The production teams at Fukuroi helped to validate the cobot’s operation and functionality under real production conditions.

The 7-axis machines were integrated in accordance with the applicable safety standards, ISO 10218 that specifies limits such as force, pressure, and speed in processes that allow contact between cobots and human workers. ISO 10218 contains recent updates that apply specifically to robots’ collaborative modes.

If cobots are used for processes that involve no contact with humans, in guarded areas that are separated and protected with safety interlocks, the standards allow operation up to full industrial speeds. The Yamaha 7-axis cobot provides high-speed operating modes for use where conditions allow, enhancing flexibility for owners to address a wide range of applications.

Incorporating a seventh axis delivers a significant advantage for collaborative robots, permitting improved functionality and safety. As demands for automation continue to grow worldwide, as industries seek ever greater productivity, cobots that offer a seventh axis opportunities can provide greater flexibility to address demanding applications and even address unexplored opportunities. With the enhanced motion control made possible by extending torque sensing, these can include processes previously considered too difficult for typical models.

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“Cobots are growing significantly faster than traditional industrial robots, driven by demands from both small and midsized companies starting their automation journey as well as large enterprises,” said Andrea Cassoni, Head of Collaborative Robots at ABB Robotics. “These customers are seeking higher speeds and payloads, but also greater ease of use, and compact designs. Established manufacturers want to automate heavier, fast cycle applications, without the complexity and operational rigidity of traditional industrial robots. We are meeting these needs with the global launch of our high-speed PoWa cobot family – a name that symbolises its powerful, industrial-grade performance in a compact collaborative robot form.”

The new PoWa family addresses a long‑standing gap in the market between traditional cobots, that often lack the speed and payload required for industrial applications, and conventional industrial robots, which are designed for highly specialised, large-scale automation environments, going beyond the needs of many collaborative tasks.

PoWa extends ABB Robotics’ comprehensive cobot offer with industrial-grade performance including six different payload categories, from 7kg to 30kg, long reach and high arm load and a top speed of up to 5.8 m/s.

Purpose-built for compact environments and ideally suited for applications such as high-speed machine tending, palletising, screwdriving and arcwelding, PoWa enables manufacturers to automate heavier and faster processes, while maintaining the flexibility, ease of use and compact footprint of collaborative robotics.

PoWa cobots are exceptionally easy to use, through programmable buttons on the arm-side interface and no-code programming and are compatible with an extensive ecosystem of third-party accessories. PoWa can be unboxed and operational within an hour and enables seamless plug-and-play with a wide range of tools, blending industrial-grade connectivity and performance with collaborative robot flexibility.

Powered by the ABB OmniCore controller platform, the new PoWa cobots deliver best-in-class motion control, speed, and precision and can be integrated with ABB Robotics’ expanding suite of AI-powered software, including Robot Studio and Wizard Easy Programming, enabling intuitive programming, fast deployment and maximum uptime.

Ensuring collaborative robots can do more things, in more places, and do it faster, safer and smarter is part of ABB Robotics vision for more autonomous and versatile robotics. By developing a new generation of intelligent, flexible, adaptative and collaborative multi-skilled robots, ABB Robotics furthers robots’ ability to learn, understand and plan independently, giving them greater autonomy and versatility.

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At the same time, Delta ensures robust protection for customers across a wide range of industries, from machinery and food and beverage to logistics, with robust, industry-leading cybersecurity.

Michael Mayer-Rosa, Senior Director Industrial Automation Business Group EMEA, stated: “Delta’s industrial automation solutions have a proven track record of delivering measurable competitive advantage in fast moving, dynamic market sectors. They enable customers with the agility to adapt efficiently to shifting market demands, economic pressures, and emerging growth opportunities. At the same time, their advanced security features ensure operational continuity, safeguarding manufacturers and supply chain operations against an increasingly complex threat landscape.”

At Hannover Messe, Delta showcased real-world applications of its solutions, including:

Delta 3D ToF Smart Camera: Enables accurate 3D data acquisition and reliable object detection for industrial automation. Utilizing Time-of-Flight (ToF) technology, it captures high-speed 3D information at up to 60 fps, delivering precise depth and position data. Through point cloud processing, the system provides accurate object coordinates, enabling seamless integration with robotic arms for efficient and precise pick-and-place applications. A live demonstration with a SCARA robot at the exhibition will showcase how the solution enhances accuracy and efficiency in automated operations.

Delta Collaborative Robot Solutions: Delta will showcase collaborative robot applications that demonstrate flexible and efficient automation within connected production and material flow environments. Its advanced palletizing system, powered by the DC16 collaborative robot, delivers seamless end-of-line automation. With a 16 kg payload, extended reach, and high precision, the DC16 enables efficient handling of boxes and materials in palletising tasks Integrated with Delta’s ecosystem of components, including vacuum grippers and linear axes, the system forms a fully synchronized, plug-and-play setup that can be deployed quickly without complex programming. Built-in Reflex Safety, collaborative functionality, and a robust IP66 design ensure safe human-robot interaction and reliable operation in demanding industrial environments.

Delta Multi-Drive MX300 Series: Delta introduces its new Compact Multi-Drive MX300 Series, designed to deliver greater flexibility and space efficiency in modern production environments. Featuring a modular multi-axis architecture, the system allows users to configure drive setups according to specific application requirements. Its compact, parallel mounting design optimizes cabinet space, simplifies installation and commissioning, and enables easy system integration. By reducing complexity in wiring and system configuration, the MX300 Series helps streamline machine design and supports more efficient and scalable production operations.

Cyber Security: Delta’s comprehensive cybersecurity solutions have been designed specifically for industrial machinery manufacturers. Beyond ensuring EU CRA compliance and delivering products built with a “Security-by-Design” philosophy, three specialised services are offered to protect Delta’s customers’ machines and businesses: Cybersecurity Assessment, including vulnerability, fuzz, and penetration testing; Compliance Assessment, where customers are guided through Machinery Regulation, EU Cyber Resilience Act and IEC 62443 requirements; and Delta’s Security Concept Design service, where Delta works side by side with its customers to define the technical requirements that best fit their needs. Delta’s mission is simple; to help manufacturers build cyber-resilient machines, achieve regulatory confidence, and ensure operational continuity in today’s rapidly evolving threat landscape.

A key attraction on the stand will be a live demonstration combining Beckhoff’s XTS intelligent transport system with a Dobot collaborative robot. The XTS combines linear and rotary drive principles, while TwinCAT integrates PLC, motion control and robotics functions on a single Industrial PC.

At London Lab Live, visitors will see the cobot track and interact with independently moving XTS movers in real time, coordinated by one Beckhoff Industrial PC running TwinCAT 3 automation software. The demonstration is designed to show how laboratory and production teams can handle vials, cartridges, microplates and consumables more flexibly, while reducing the need for mechanical changeover.

Because the movers can be controlled individually, the system can adapt to different process steps and container formats within the same machine architecture. The open approach also makes it easier to integrate third-party robotics, existing instruments and wider automation systems, giving users a practical route from laboratory-scale development through to full production.

“Many pharmaceutical and biotechnology manufacturers want to automate handling tasks without creating rigid systems that are difficult to adapt,” said Bradley McEwan, business development manager at Beckhoff UK. “Our demonstration at London Lab Live shows how transport and robotics can be coordinated in real time on a single control platform. That gives users the flexibility to work with different container types, adapt workflows quickly and scale automation more effectively as requirements change.”

McEwan and technical support engineer Sebastian Lindqvist will be available on stand B51 throughout the show to discuss how Beckhoff’s PC-based control technology can support laboratory automation projects. Visitors can register for the event through the London Lab Live website.

Among the technologies on display is SmartReach Comau, a machining centre developed to address the processing requirements of large, lightweight structural components. It is suitable not only for advanced applications but also for traditional heavy industry processes, where high levels of robustness, reliability, and operational continuity are essential.

The solution combines high flexibility with consistent rigidity and precision; thanks to its modular and dynamic architecture, SmartReach Comau enhances productivity and scalability across automotive, aerospace, energy, and other industrial sectors. The system also features a sustainability-oriented design, helping to reduce energy consumption as well as environmental and safety risks for operators.

Logistics automation represents another strategic area for Comau, further strengthened by the acquisition of Automha, a company specialised in warehouse and intralogistics solutions. This move expands Comau’s presence in the rapidly growing storage and logistics market.

Also featured at the stand is MyCo, Comau’s family of collaborative robots. With built-in collaborative safety features and ergonomic benefits, MyCo enables operators to work side by side with robots, improving workplace well-being, optimizing production space, and enhancing operational safety. The offering is complemented by wearable exoskeletons from the MATE family.

In particular, visitors will have the opportunity to try MATE-XT GO, recently launched as the latest evolution of the platform: a fully mechanical exoskeleton, requiring no batteries or motors, designed to reduce shoulder muscle strain during overhead tasks by providing physical support in repetitive or static operations. MATE-XB, on the other hand, is a passive exoskeleton that helps reduce lower-back fatigue during material handling activities, supporting operators in various static postures or repetitive lifting tasks.

“MACH represents an important opportunity for Comau to engage with the UK manufacturing industry and demonstrate how automation can strengthen business competitiveness, especially in complex, dynamic, and unstructured production environments,” said John Coombes, Managing Director of Comau UK. “The technologies we are presenting reflect our commitment to developing flexible, scalable, and sustainable solutions capable of operating effectively even in complex, dynamic, and unstructured environments, helping companies improve productivity, safety, and process quality.”

Comau’s participation in MACH confirms its active role in the United Kingdom, where the company has a well-established presence and is committed to closely supporting the evolution of the local industrial landscape. Through continuous collaboration with its customers, Comau contributes to the development of advanced projects, particularly in the automotive sector as well as in several other strategic industries, further strengthening its position in the UK market.

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Under the theme “Delta Sustainable Factory,” the company will demonstrate how the integration of smart automation, digital twin technology and high-efficiency power solutions helps enable intelligent manufacturing, electrified mobility and energy-efficient industrial operations.

Key highlights include a live AI-enabled production demonstration, the launch of the new Chameleon Series industrial power supplies, and the C-Series All-In-One Energy Storage Solution.

Intelligent automation, seamless integration

A key highlight of Delta’s Smart Factory is the cyber-physical integrated demonstration that seamlessly integrates advanced PCB insertion systems. Another featured showcase on efficient, flexible production is the innovative collaborative robot applications, including an advanced palletising system powered by the DC16 cobot for seamless end-of-line automation.

Furthermore, the exhibition will feature the Compact Multi-Drive MX300 Series. Designed to deliver greater flexibility and space efficiency in modern facilities, its modular multi-axis architecture allows users to perfectly configure drive setups according to specific application requirements.

Launch of Chameleon series industrial power supplies

Delta will officially introduce the Chameleon Series, a rugged industrial AC/DC power supply with rated output voltage of 48V designed for reliable performance in demanding environments.

With high power density and fan-less operation, the Chameleon platform is engineered for industrial applications exposed to dust, humidity and other adverse conditions. The 1,000 W power supply delivers efficiency of up to 95% and operates across a wide temperature range from -40 degC to +85 degC, ensuring stable power delivery in challenging industrial conditions. The platform also supports digital output adjustment, PMBus communication, and integrated status signalling, enabling seamless system integration and advanced monitoring capabilities while supporting predictive maintenance strategies.

Enabling intelligent and sustainable industries

Through its exhibition across Smart Manufacturing, Clean Mobility and Sustainable Energy, Delta demonstrates how intelligent automation, advanced power electronics and smart mobility solutions can be seamlessly integrated to address the dual challenges of digitalization and decarbonization.

From AI-enabled robotics and digital twin-driven production optimisation to modular industrial power systems, energy storage solutions and high-power EV charging infrastructure, Delta presents a comprehensive portfolio designed to support resilient, energy-efficient and future-ready industrial operations worldwide.

By combining advanced manufacturing technologies with energy-efficient power solutions, electrified intralogistics infrastructure and smart mobility systems, Delta continues to support industries in accelerating digital transformation while advancing the global transition toward sustainable energy systems.

With the UK operation based in Northampton, igus develops lubrication‑free motion plastics that replace traditional metal components, increasing performance while eliminating the need for grease and maintenance. With thousands of products available from stock, igus supports applications across thousands of industries, proving that high-performance plastics are the sustainable and cost-effective way to achieve operational success.

At this year’s exhibition, visitors can explore a wide selection of igus technologies, including energy chains, flexible cables, plain bearings, linear guides and lead screw systems. All products are rigorously tested in their test laboratories to ensure predictable service life and proven durability in demanding environments.

As a global leader in motion plastics, igus’ expertise extends beyond energy chains and bearings to 3D‑printed wear‑resistant parts, smart plastics for condition monitoring and its rapidly growing RBTX platform for low‑cost automation.

RBTX: Making automation accessible

A major highlight on the stand will be live robotics displays from the RBTX platform. RBTX is the online marketplace designed to help SMEs, start‑ups and manufacturers increase productivity without the high investment typically associated with automation. RBTX brings together robot manufacturers, component suppliers and automation partners on a single platform, offering complete systems or individual components for tasks such as pick‑and‑place, assembly and inspection.

To celebrate the event, igus is running a daily prize competition on the stand. Attendees can take part in the ‘Spin‑the‑Wheel challenge’, giving them the chance to win £1000 off their next igus order. One new winner will be selected from the pool of successful spinners every day of the exhibition, offering multiple opportunities for visitors to participate throughout the week.

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On stand 18-640 in Hall 18, visitors will experience the latest developments in collaborative robots, industrial automation cells, digital engineering tools and lifecycle service and support offerings for metals fabrication applications.

“Demand for automation in metal fabrication is accelerating, especially for welding applications where 29 percent of manufacturers have identified automation as a major priority to help them meet a shortfall in skilled manual workers,” said Alan Conn, Managing Director at ABB Robotics UK & Ireland. “This trend reflects a growing need for the industry to embrace robotic automation to improve productivity and address ongoing skilled labour shortages.”

Exhibits will include examples of ABB’s OmniVance collaborative Arc Welding and Machine Tending application cells. The arc welding cell will show how welding operations can be automated quickly and easily using a collaborative robot. Designed for high-mix, low-volume production environments, the cell enables operators to program welding sequences in minutes using an intuitive Easy Teach Device, reducing programming time and making robotic welding accessible even to first-time users.

The collaborative machine tending solution will demonstrate how cobots can automate repetitive loading and unloading tasks. Based on standardized hardware and intuitive interfaces, the cell simulates a typical machine tending process, enabling operators to manage production through a simple teach-and-run approach.

Alongside the OmniVance cells will be ABB Robotics’ FlexLoader FP800 high-performance robotic cell, highlighting how manufacturers can automate complex material handling tasks while maintaining flexibility and high productivity. Using advanced 3D vision technology, the cell demonstrates a semi-structured bin picking application, showing robots identifying and picking randomly oriented components.

The stand will also showcase ABB Robotics’ digital capabilities, with demonstrations of RobotStudio, the industry-leading offline simulation and programming software tool. RobotStudio enables manufacturers to design, program and optimise robotic systems in a virtual environment before deployment, reducing commissioning time and improving production efficiency.

Supplementing these demonstrations will be a focus on ABB Robotics’ Modernisation Services showing how ABB Robotics can help manufacturers to combine robotics, digital engineering tools and lifecycle services, including upgrades and optimisation, to build smarter, more flexible factories and remain competitive in an increasingly automated manufacturing landscape.

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