In this issue we are putting the State of Michigan in focus. Traditionally this has been the centre of the US auto industry and it looks as though the industry is beginning to ‘eat’ again after a few lean years.

Michigan is making a strong bid to become the US robot State. Brian Rooks has visited several robot and automation companies in the State and finds a variety of operations.

In its short history GMF has gained both acclaim and notoriety. Brian Rooks visited the headquarters in Troy to separate truth from rumour.

A lack of standardisation in current robot systems makes off‐line programming difficult to attain. In Germany a system has been developed to help overcome the problem.

In Spring 1985 the International Flexible Automation Center will open its doors in Indianapolis, USA, providing a permanent display of automation equipment and unique education programmes.

TaylorHitec's best claim to fame is in robotic and FMS systems building. Brian Rooks has been finding out.

Although stand‐alone robots are used in several machine shops, John Hartley has found that the trend in Japan is towards the use of special‐purpose handling devices.

Those who follow the classified advertisement pages of the British National Press and magazines will have noticed that major robotics companies in that country are looking for additional people to reinforce their existing staffing levels.