PRATTVILLE, AL—Tier 1 supplier Hyundai Transys has deployed autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) from Thira Robotics at its automotive seating assembly plant here. It marks the first time that a U.S. assembly plant has deployed Thira AMRs.
Autonomous mobile robots could help alleviate a looming labor shortage in Japan.
November 21, 2023
TOKYO—Japan will face a labor shortage next year when new overtime regulations for truck drivers come into force. This is being called the “2024 problem,” and the country’s manufacturers are hoping robots and automation can alleviate the issue.
HAMPSHIRE, UK—British agricultural technology start-up Small Robot Co. has invented a mobile delta autonomous mobile robot that can weed agricultural fields without using chemicals.
In recent years, most efforts to develop autonomous vehicles have focused on last-mile delivery, driven by the rapid rise of e-commerce. The goal is to create machines that can deliver food and small packages directly to consumers in an affordable, quick, reliable and safe manner.
The current paradigm of car manufacturing, which provides a variety of models, colors and options, is called mass customization. However, mass customization is now transforming into mass individualization. In mass individualization, products are uniquely catered to consumers’ desires. For example, some car buyers may want to replace ordinary car seats with luxury brands, such as Louis Vuitton, to differentiate themselves.
The Automate Show was held June 6-9 in Detroit. More than 550 robotics and automation vendors exhibited. Here are five new products on display at the event.
REDFORD, MI—At Ford’s Advanced Manufacturing Center here, Javier is tasked with operating the 3D printers completely on his own. He is always on time, very precise in his movements, and he works most of the day. He never takes a lunch break or a coffee break—he doesn’t even ask for a paycheck.