John Sprovieri

Flexible, Robotic Cells Automate Back-End Assembly Processes

Microfactories combine software, machine learning, machine vision and robotics to create intelligent assembly lines.

March 15, 2021

Today's printed circuit board assembly line is highly automated. Board loading, paste printing, pick-and-place, reflow, test and inspection - every process is covered by a standard machine, and assemblers have many brands to choose from.

House Passes Bill to Strengthen Apprenticeship Program

John Sprovieri

March 10, 2021

On Feb. 5, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the National Apprenticeship Act of 2021. This bill would invest nearly $3.5 billion over five years to scale-up apprenticeship opportunities, streamline access to apprenticeships for workers and employers, and expand apprenticeships into new, in-demand industry sectors and occupations.

Laser Marking Aids Compliance With UDI Regulations

John Sprovieri

February 10, 2021

In May, the European Union’s sweeping new Medical Device Regulation (MDR) will take effect. (The law had been scheduled to go into effect last May, but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.)

We Fed It: Flex Feeder Handles Plastic Clips

John Sprovieri

February 10, 2021

Plastic clips and fasteners are becoming increasingly popular in the automotive industry. They are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and quick and easy to install.

Partnership Brings Assembly Jobs to Impoverished Area

John Sprovieri

February 8, 2021

In November, Cook Group Inc. announced plans to invest $7 million to build a 40,000-square-foot assembly plant on the northeast side of Indianapolis, creating 100 jobs for residents in an impoverished neighborhood.

Universal Robots Launches First Accredited Training Program for Users of Cobots

John Sprovieri

February 8, 2021

An education program developed by Universal Robots to teach people how to program and implement collaborative robots has been accredited by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) and is now authorized to issue continuing education units.

Universal Robots Reaches Industry Milestone With 50,000 Cobots Sold

John Sprovieri

February 8, 2021

In December, Universal Robots sold its 50,000th cobot, which was purchased by a German manufacturer to increase productivity and improve employee safety.

UR+ Partners Nominated for Robotics Award

John Sprovieri

February 7, 2021

Two members of Universal Robots' UR+ partner program have been nominated for Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Robotics & Automation (IERA) Awards by the International Federation of Robotics (IFR).

Five Things: Automotive Assembly

John Sprovieri

January 8, 2021

General Motors has announced that its Factory ZERO has become the first automotive plant in the U.S. to install dedicated 5G fixed mobile network technology.

New Developments in Self-Pierce Riveting

New technology incorporates the advantages of self-pierce riveting while overcoming its limitations.

John Sprovieri

January 6, 2021

Self-pierce riveting (SPR) is a cold joining process for fastening two or more sheets of material by driving a rivet through the top sheets and upsetting it, under the influence of a die, into the bottom sheet without breaking through it.