Contrinex’s tiny Ø3mm inductive proximity sensors cram high levels of performance into the smallest of packages. This combination of small size and big performance is ideal to verify the presence of interchangeable end-of-arm tooling on small robots. Small industrial robots and cobots (collaborative robots) are increasingly being used for material handling tasks like machine tending […]
When an automotive manufacturer needed a low cost, easy-to-implement solution to add RFID verification to the automated tooling change system, for a small robot working as a machine tender to an expensive and delicate machining centre, it turned to Contrinex. The integration of interchangeable end-of-arm tooling for robots increases their flexibility and capability but also […]
A ‘smart’ ultra-compact profile sensor from Baumer is proving key on a newly developed space- and time-saving electroplating robot. In many applications surface coating such as electroplating is an important part of the manufacturing process and if performed manually, will require a considerable amount of space and human resources. However, a good example of the […]
Celebrating 90 years of pioneering technological advancements that have transformed the manufacturing landscape, Omron will be showcasing a range of demonstrations at stand B34 during the PPMA Show at the NEC in Birmingham from 26-28 September. The demonstrations will highlight the latest advancements in technology, addressing the pressing challenges faced by today’s manufacturers. Omron’s display […]
When a manufacturer of valves wanted to automate the welding of aluminium parts with robots to prevent misalignment, it turned to Contrinex for an inductive proximity sensor that would ensure the presence and position of an aluminium tube, and be able to withstand the electromagnetic interference created by the high currents used in the spot […]
Omron’s highly anticipated Discover Omron Roadshow will bring together industry experts, thought leaders and manufacturers to exchange invaluable insights and empower participants with strategies to overcome hurdles, reduce costs, optimise efficiency, and drive overall cost-effectiveness in their operations. The UK manufacturing industry is currently navigating a landscape riddled with formidable challenges, including surging raw material […]
Idec introduces the SA2E general-purpose photoelectric (PE) sensor family, in five major models, each which improve on or replace proven SA1E products, meeting the needs of robotics, pick and place and AGV applications. A new ASIC, common to the entire offering, provides a significantly improved price/performance ratio, while delivering better response times and more capable […]
Recent International Federation of Robotics (IFR) figures show the rising global demand for robots, partly in response to companies’ challenges with labour and inflation. Many do not know where to start, but Igus’s RBTX platform is the perfect entry point for beginners and designers of small automation projects. The International Federation of Robotics reports that […]
Sick has unveiled a milestone advance in its three-dimensional LiDAR technology with the launch of the multiScan multi-layered LiDAR sensor. The Sick multiScan combines floor-to-ceiling 360° environment perception with high-resolution navigation for reliable real-time localisation, mapping and collision avoidance in autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). Developed on the foundations of Sick’s multi-echo LiDAR technology, the multiScan […]
Igus says its RBTX online marketplace, which helps users looking for cost-effective automation solutions, brings over 100 cost-effective automation solutions to your fingertips, and includes new functions and automation feasibility demonstrations. Instead of needing to search across many different sources, machine builders and buyers will find a wide range of low-cost robotics components from many […]
Motion plastics and low-cost automation at MACH 2026
igus returns to MACH with a comprehensive range of engineering innovations designed to improve machine reliability, reduce downtime and deliver long‑term cost savings for manufacturers across all industry. 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. […]
RBTX DOBOT partner launch hailed a success
igus UK marks a major milestone in accessible automation with the successful launch of its RBTX partnership with DOBOT Robotics. The event brought together engineers, system integrators, manufacturers and automation specialists to explore how flexible robotic solutions can be deployed quickly and cost-effectively, without the complexity traditionally associated with industrial automation. Live demonstrations showcased collaborative […]
What role does AI play in art?
The River of Light festival in Liverpool showcased ‘Face Value’, a captivating installation co-created by PhD student Emma Brass from the University of Liverpool and Venya Krutikov, co-founder of The Kazimier and Invisible Wind Factory. Blending artificial intelligence, robotics, and visual art, Face Value invites visitors to confront how technology perceives and redefines reality. The […]
Automating with robotics at MachineBuilding.South
Industry commentators agree that UK manufacturers will need to increase their investment in robotics if they are to keep up with international competition. At MachineBuilding.South you can find out how, with numerous exhibits from robotics, control, automation and safety specialists. LG Motion (Stand 46) will be showcasing Techman Robot (TM Robot) collaborative robots at MachineBuilding.South with […]
Annual robot shipments to top 760k units in 2030
The industrial robot industry saw 5.1% growth in 2025, following a contraction of -2% in 2024, Interact Analysis reports. The market is now forecast to record steady growth out to 2030, at an average annual rate of 6.7%, rising from 549,555 units in 2025 to 761,303 units in 2030. The latest industrial robots report from […]
Universal Robots hosts Food & Beverage Masterclass
The Food & Beverage Masterclass, hosted by Universal Robots in June, 2026 at Riseholme Park in Lincoln, brought together industry professionals for a practical and engaging half-day event focused on end of line automation with collaborative robots (cobots). Designed to give attendees a clear understanding of how automation can be successfully implemented in food and […]
Customised robotics and automation systems: Astech Projects is an award-winning provider of advanced automated solutions. We work with clients worldwide to design and build robotics and automation systems that meet
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Gourmet-food-maker automates packaging process
Rockwell Automation has announced that Cranswick, one of Britain’s leading manufacturers of premium gourmet foods, has commissioned a new robotic end-of-line pick-and-place system using autonox Robotics. Every year, Cranswick produces millions of “pigs-in-blankets” (sausages wrapped in bacon) for the Christmas market. The final stage of the process – picking the sausages off the conveyor belt […]
Universal Robots hosts Food & Beverage Masterclass
The Food & Beverage Masterclass, hosted by Universal Robots in June, 2026 at Riseholme Park in Lincoln, brought together industry professionals for a practical and engaging half-day event focused on end of line automation with collaborative robots (cobots). Designed to give attendees a clear understanding of how automation can be successfully implemented in food and […]
Universal adaptive gripper for faster, gentler picking
Festo has introduced the HPSX Universal Adaptive Gripper, a pneumatic soft gripper engineered to improve speed, hygiene and flexibility in demanding food, pharmaceutical and cosmetics applications. Combining robust design, food-safe materials and adaptive silicone fingers, the HPSX directly addresses long-standing automation challenges where rapid, precise and gentle product handling is essential. “In developing the HPSX, […]