Reports on the industrial robots papers presented at the two‐day International Workshop on Advanced Robotics and Intelligent Machines held at the University of Salford. Subjects included: development of robotics in the UK; work on a generalized framework for intelligent robotic systems to...

Summarizes the main characteristics of Stäubli’s V_Trajsig software option which the company claims provides a unique way of achieving an optimum path‐following performance.

Foundries have made massive investments in computerized casting systems. Suggests that Cosworth Castings, Worcester, and VAW West Yorkshire Foundry, Leeds, are setting new standards in foundry automation.

Presents a case study of Oilgear Towler, supplier of one of the most sophisticated electro‐hydraulic control systems for a Eumuco Hasenclever radial forging machine. One of the key elements of the system is the control of two synchronized manipulators and four forging rams.

Examines efforts made to ensure the safety of operators in using robots. Looks at the use of simulation of robotic workcells, which in particular provides the benefit of allowing the user to develop and design workcells months before use. Details the method used and concludes that simulation can...

A new efficient controller has been designed for the Aria‐Delta parallel robot family to help increase their capabilities and reduce the required resources and development time. Introduces briefly the robot structure and characteristics, then the controller itself, the hardware components and...

Choosing end‐effectors for robotic applications can be a mind‐boggling task, unless you are familiar with what is available and the appropriate application for each. Presents the XChange Tool Change system, offered by Applied Robotics, which facilitates fast and reliable end‐effector...

Looks at the potential of water hydraulics as an alternative to more traditional systems and explains the advantages and disadvantages. Provides a number of examples of where water hydraulics is replacing other systems, in particular with the use of Nessie products. Also describes other areas...

A new pendant controller is one of the results from a 12‐month development programme at Pressflow Automation. Presents three case studies illustrating the different benefits which three plastic moulders have derived from use of robotics.

Describes virtual manufacturing software which lets production engineers create life‐like, full‐action mock‐ups of automated production systems on computer workstations and then analyse and debug them before investing in costly capital equipment. Virtual manufacturing software that is...