New Product of the Year Awards
The ASSEMBLY Show once again celebrated innovation in assembly technology with the 7th annual New Product of the Year Awards, held during the 2025 event in Rosemont.From robots and conveyors to software and automated systems, hundreds of new products filled the show floor. Of these, 20 standout products were nominated across five categories, and attendees voted for their favorites to determine the winners.
Check out the 2025 winners below!
Assembly Machines & Systems
Multi-Robot System Assembles Valves
Edgewater Automation designed and built a fully automated, multi-robot assembly system for a manufacturer of industrial valves. The system achieves a 2.5-second cycle time with an OEE of 85 percent. It features 31 robots, two linear-motor transfer systems, and pallet-transfer conveyors. The system includes vibratory bowl feeders; custom end-of-arm tooling; robotic screwdriving and riveting; robotic dispensing and curing; press-fit assembly, laser marking and robotic packaging. Quality checks include fastener torque, fastener depth, rivet height, leak testing, and vision inspection.
www.edgewaterautomation.com
Adhesives, Dispensing & Curing
Water-Resistant, Biocompatible Cyanoacrylate
Cyanolit 290 WR is a moisture- and water-resistant cyanoacrylate adhesive. This instant adhesive has a fast-curing time and high bond strength with metals and thermoplastics, such as ABS and PVC. This solvent-free, one-component adhesive cures within seconds by reacting with atmospheric humidity. After just a few minutes, the adhesive achieves a tensile shear strength of up to 16 megapascals on metal. The bond retains its strength after several hundred hours at 85 C and 85 percent humidity. It also maintains its strength after exposure to engine oil, isopropyl alcohol and water. The adhesive has been tested in accordance with DIN ISO 10993-5 and is suitable for use in medical devices and wearables.
www.panacol-usa.com
Fastening Tools
Controller for Blind Fastening
The MTC tool controller provides process control and data collection for the company’s full line of FreeSet cordless tools, including the RK-777C for blind rivets, RK-787C for rivet-nuts, and RK-797C for lock bolts. With the ability to manage up to 20 tools simultaneously through a wireless LAN, the controller prevents incorrect assembly by ensuring that each rivet is installed to specified parameters. The unit securely stores riveting data, ensuring traceability. Up to 100,000 results can be stored directly on the device. Programming is done through a web-based interface. All connected tools can be programmed directly via the controller. It supports multiple communication protocols, such as Ethernet and Profibus.
www.rivet.com
Robotics
SCARA Robot Is Fast, Precise
The GX-C Series SCARA robots are designed for the most demanding assembly applications. The robots are available in multiple arm configurations for increased productivity and worker protection while minimizing footprint. Gyroplus vibration reduction technology optimizes throughput by enabling high acceleration, smooth motion and fast settling time. The robots work with the RC800A robot controller, which optimizes run-time, recovery and error handling. SafeSense technology enables human-robot interaction without requiring a safety fence. Options include vision guidance, parts feeding, force guidance, conveyer tracking, and fieldbus connectivity. Four models are available covering a reach range of 250 to 1,000 millimeters.
epson.com
Manufacturing Software
Free Software Generates Kanban Cards
Arda has launched a free online tool for creating kanban cards. Originating from the Toyota Production System, kanban is a visual method for managing manufacturing workflows. It operates on a “pull” principle, in which replenishment is triggered only when needed, minimizing waste, reducing overproduction, and ensuring a continuous flow of materials. Traditionally, this involves the use of physical kanban cards that signal the need for more parts or materials. Arda takes the concept into the 21st century by offering a sophisticated inventory management system that connects physical kanban cards to a robust digital platform. The cards have QR codes that, when scanned, trigger automated reordering processes, eliminating stockouts and providing real-time inventory visibility.
www.arda.cards
