Tallent Engineering has 16 robots but plans another six. It then prepares to move into computer‐aided manufacture. But human skills will be important. John Mortimer reports.

Automating the plants of semi‐conductor manufacturers and other ‘super‐clean’ environments seems an obvious market for robots, but it is a complicated one full of pitfalls and challenges for the unwary, as Stephen McClelland explains.

Anna Kochan summarises a new survey of the market for small robots and manipulators in Western Europe published by Frost & Sullivan.

New trends in flexible automation require new characteristics for robot controllers, the new generation of which are supporting the integration of robots into automated manufacturing environments.

Flexibility and integration are features of the new Trallfa automotive coating system known as TRACS.

More than 100 papers from 19 countries were given at the 16th ISIR (International Symposium on Industrial Robots) held in Brussels in late September. The Industrial Robot reviews the trends.

In the last seven years eight young engineers have benefited from the BRA Travel Award. Most have been from academic backgrounds. Now the BRA wants to encourage more industry‐based engineers to apply.

Improvements in performance and packaging from many companies are evident as Matsushita starts to sell its direct drive robot. John Hartley reports from Tokyo's Automation Show.

Formed just over a year ago the UK company Meta Machines has set its sights on advanced technology products. Brian Rooks reports on its first two product lines

A multi‐robot line is now producing advanced design radiators at Llanelli Radiators' plant in South Wales. Brian Rooks has been to see the line in operation