It is often claimed that flexible automation is the key to the survival of the manufacturing industry. The most significant and emotive form that flexible automation can take is the robot, yet this saviour of the manufacturing industry can be at best an expensive though worthwhile investment,...

John Hartley reports how recent applications show that robots are being used increasingly for assembly.

Coopers Filters have invested a quarter of a million pounds in a powder coating plant to improve the quality of its products. Brian Rooks has visited the plant and found that robotics has played a key role.

The British Robot Association has just released its annual robot statistics and has been able also to include some other European figures.

Based on its Daros PT600 robot Dainichi Sykes Robotics has built an automated arc‐welding cell for producing hospital beds.

New languages designed to lead to off‐line programming of robots. John Hartley reports.

Thorn EMI is continuing to expand its commitment into robotics. Following the purchase of Hazmac last year it has now added Workmaster to its range.

Slowing down a press line retrofitted with 10 robots resulted in more output and better quality for GM's Fisher Body Division in Columbus, Ohio.

Robotics is playing an important role in the production of Austin Rover's new car, Montego. Robots are in operation not only in body‐in‐white manufacture but also in final assembly with an advanced direct glazing system.

Dutch specialists in enhanced visual observation make a successful move into an industrial manufacturing sphere.