Robotic technology in North America is moving in opposing directions, toward smaller more compact pre‐engineered packages and faster operating speeds and to reach more applications, into greater payload capacity and greater reach. Suppliers of end of arm equipment are matching the greater...

Pre‐packaged robot applications now include robot‐served computerized measurement systems. Accessory suppliers innovate with compact electric powered grippers and vacuum suction cup‐style grippers with self‐contained vacuum supply. Linear slides and actuators beef up features and options...

Purpose – To report on the design and development of a robotic automobile aluminium frame welding system. Design/methodology/approach – The customer contracted with a team of suppliers, each with unique skills and products necessary for welding thin aluminium framing. The team employed...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review the International Manufacturing Technology Show in Chicago with emphasis on new innovative robot applications on display. Design/methodology/approach – In‐depth interviews with exhibitors of robots as well as system integrators who apply...

Purpose – This paper aims to review the AUVSI Conference and show held in Denver, Colorado with emphasis on unmanned vehicles or service robots, their application on the ground, in the air and in the water. Design/methodology/approach – In‐depth interviews with exhibitors of unmanned...

Purpose – This paper seeks to build awareness of how telepresence or service robots are coming to the aid of students who might not otherwise be able to attend school in person or others who might need to be in two places at once. Design/methodology/approach – Discussions with the...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to show how mobile robots are addressing a variety of hospital logistic needs. Design/methodology/approach – The paper includes in‐depth interviews with developers of the Aethon hospital mobile robot logistics system. Findings – Robotics can greatly...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review the Automate Show (robots and vision) and the Promat Show (material handling) that ran jointly in Chicago, with emphasis on the new robot innovations and applications on display. Design/methodology/approach – In‐depth interviews with...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) Conference and Show held in Washington DC, with emphasis on unmanned vehicles or service robots and their application on the ground, in the air and in the water....

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review some of the recent innovations in robotics for a wide range of medically‐related applications. Design/methodology/approach – The paper includes in‐depth interviews with developers of medical application‐related robots and a review of...