Articles - Used Robots

INTEGRATION OF YASKAWA MOTOMAN ROBOTIC WELDERS: PRECISION AND EFFICIENCY IN MANUFACTURING

Welding is one of the most critical and demanding processes in the manufacturing industry. Precision, repeatability, and safety are essential to ensure the quality of the final product. Yaskawa Motoman, known for its expertise in welding automation, has developed robots and integrated solutions that optimize this process, lowering costs and boosting productivity.

Yaskawa Motoman’s welding robots, such as the AR1440 and AR3120, are designed to deliver high-quality arc welding in automotive, metalworking, and heavy machinery applications. These models offer extended reach and payload capacity, making them ideal for large or complex parts. Their advanced path control systems ensure consistent, high-quality weld seams, while integration with vision systems allows for precise adjustments and millimeter-level accuracy. They are also compatible with leading welding power sources like Fronius, Lincoln Electric, and Miller.

One of Yaskawa’s most powerful tools is the YRC1000 controller, which enables intuitive programming and monitoring of the welding process, as well as coordination of multiple robots for simultaneous operations.

In a trailer manufacturing plant in Mexico, two Yaskawa AR3120 robots were deployed for chassis welding. The setup included vision systems and rotary positioners to handle the parts. The results were impressive: welding time was reduced by 40%, rework due to weld defects was nearly eliminated, and production capacity increased by 30%—all without adding more personnel.

Compared to manual welding, robotic welding offers several advantages: 24/7 operation without fatigue, consistent welds every time, reduced exposure of workers to fumes and radiation, and less waste of materials and consumables.

Integrating Yaskawa Motoman welding robots is a strategic move for companies seeking consistent quality, faster production, and lower operational costs. Their precision and ability to work in sync within complex industrial environments make them a highly efficient solution in the field of industrial welding.

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FROM THE FACTORY TO THE SMART ECOSYSTEM: THE RISE OF ROBOTIC SWARMS

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Swarm robotics, inspired by the behavior of social insects, is no longer just a laboratory concept—it’s becoming a practical solution in industries such as logistics, construction, and advanced manufacturing. This approach enables multiple robots to work together in a decentralized manner, tackling tasks that once required complex centralized systems.

The Essence of Swarm Robotics

Unlike traditional automation systems, where each robot is controlled by a central unit, swarm robotics relies on distributed autonomy. Each robot follows simple rules, but collectively they generate intelligent, adaptive behavior that responds in real time to changing conditions. This makes swarm robotics ideal for dynamic environments like warehouses or assembly lines, where constant variation is the norm.

Breakthroughs in Research

One of the most notable recent developments is RoboBallet, a project led by University College London (UCL) in collaboration with Google DeepMind. It coordinates up to eight robotic arms to perform 40 tasks within seconds. Using AI algorithms, the system prevents collisions and optimizes group movements—marking a milestone in multi-robot planning.

Other programs, such as Centibots and Symbrion, have long demonstrated that simple robots can self-organize to explore spaces, transport objects, or even assemble into cooperative structures. Backed by research institutions in the U.S. and Europe, these initiatives laid the groundwork for today’s industrial swarm robotics.

Emerging Industrial Applications

The automotive industry is among the first to embrace this paradigm. Companies like Arrival have documented assembly processes where groups of robots simultaneously build electric vehicles—eliminating the need for a static production line. This approach offers greater flexibility, lower costs, and adaptability for small or customized production runs.

In logistics, large warehouses are experimenting with fleets of mobile robots that self-organize to move goods more efficiently than traditional systems. The key lies in their independence: each robot makes local decisions that, together, result in a coordinated and seamless operation.

Swarm robotics is reshaping the landscape of industrial automation. What began as an experimental concept inspired by insect behavior has evolved into a practical model that enhances resilience, flexibility, and efficiency in factories and logistics centers.

Advances in AI, inter-robot communication, and distributed planning are driving adoption in strategic sectors like automotive and logistics. In the coming years, we’ll witness mass production shift toward dynamic networks of collaborative robots—capable of operating as a self-sufficient, adaptive swarm.

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YASKAWA AND MULTIVAC: PACKAGING INNOVATION WITH RX 4.0 THERMOFORMER AND SIX-AXIS ROBOT

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In the fast-moving world of industrial automation, the collaboration between Yaskawa and MULTIVAC marks a significant milestone. The integration of Yaskawa’s six-axis MOTOMAN HD7 robot into MULTIVAC’s RX 4.0 thermoforming machine sets new standards in the medical and pharmaceutical industries, fully aligning with stringent Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) regulations.

A New Era in Packaging Innovation

The RX 4.0 thermoformer by MULTIVAC was designed to meet rising demands for precision and consistency in packaging sensitive products across healthcare sectors. More than just reducing production times, the system enhances operational efficiency and adaptability. A standout feature is the first-ever incorporation of a six-axis Yaskawa robot at the end of the production line, bringing unprecedented flexibility to the packaging process.

MOTOMAN HD7: Precision Meets Versatility

Chosen after a rigorous market analysis, the MOTOMAN HD7 stands out for its cleanroom compatibility and full GMP compliance. Developed in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation (IPA), this robot is suitable for environments ranging from ISO Class 5 to GMP Class A — the highest hygiene standard.

Its six-axis structure allows both single and multi-point loading and unloading operations. In demo setups, it’s been equipped with a five-point vacuum head for handling packages, which can be placed onto moving conveyor belts or at fixed, designated positions. The HD7’s range of motion enables it to access various positions without constraint, offering remarkable format flexibility.

Seamless Integration and Smart Control

The robot’s integration into the RX 4.0 platform is made possible through Yaskawa’s MotoLogix software interface, which embeds robotic kinematics directly into MULTIVAC’s control system and programming environment. This ensures centralized line operation from a single platform, boosting efficiency and streamlining system complexity.

The partnership between Yaskawa and MULTIVAC in deploying the MOTOMAN HD7 represents a significant leap forward in packaging automation for the medical and pharmaceutical industries. Not only does it enhance process precision and flexibility, but it also sets a new benchmark in GMP compliance—ensuring consistently high product quality and safety.

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THE DIGITAL REVOLUTION IN FEED MANUFACTURING: THE PROGANDO SUCCESS STORY WITH ARBENTIA AND MICROSOFT

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In the era of Industry 4.0—where connectivity and automation are reshaping every industry—digitalizing processes has become essential for staying competitive. A clear example of this transformation is Progando, a leading Galician company in animal nutrition, which has achieved a major milestone by integrating its feed manufacturing and sales operations through a strategic collaboration with ARBENTIA and Microsoft. This project not only streamlines management but also lays the foundation for a smarter, more responsive value chain.

Rooted in the Provincial Agricultural Cooperative of A Coruña (Leyma) and deeply committed to rural development, Progando faced the challenge of unifying and monitoring its complex feed production and distribution processes, along with managing its ProSardín retail stores. The solution came with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, a cloud-based ERP system that enabled Progando to consolidate all its operations into a single database.

Led by ARBENTIA, the implementation resulted in full integration of workflows—from purchasing and finance to logistics and production. This advanced digitalization allows real-time monitoring of both the factory and the stores, ensuring tight inventory control, batch traceability, and compliance with food safety and quality regulations. Integration with tools like Microsoft Power BI has further empowered Progando with robust analytics capabilities, enabling faster, data-driven decision-making.

“We aimed to integrate all our workflows and make better decisions using tools like Microsoft Power BI,” explains Adrián Veras from Progando, highlighting how technology has elevated the value of their work and allowed the team to focus on higher-value tasks.

Progando is a family-run Galician company and a benchmark in the animal nutrition and agricultural distribution sector. Operating within the Leyma cooperative, its mission is to support farmers and develop cutting-edge technologies for agricultural production, promoting efficiency and sustainability in rural areas. In a year of strong growth, the company reported €69.5 million in revenue and reached a record production of 120,000 tons.

ARBENTIA, a digital transformation expert, supports businesses in their technological evolution. Specializing in the development and implementation of intelligent solutions based on Microsoft Dynamics 365, ARBENTIA focuses on improving efficiency, traceability, and profitability across the entire value chain—from production to distribution. It positions itself as a key strategic partner in business modernization, offering specialized software for feed distribution and promoting operational excellence.

Microsoft, the global tech giant, is a leading provider of software, services, and solutions that transform how businesses operate. In this project, its Dynamics 365 Business Central and Power BI platforms form the digital backbone, delivering the cloud infrastructure needed for integrated, flexible, and scalable management. Microsoft’s technology is essential for boosting operational efficiency and enabling powerful data analysis, bringing the vision of Industry 4.0 to life for companies of all sizes and sectors.

This success story underscores how the right combination of strategic vision, advanced technology, and expert implementation can lead to full digital transformation of industrial processes—marking a turning point in the efficiency and competitiveness of the agri-food sector.

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ROBOTIC INNOVATION 4.0: TEKNIKER BOOSTS INDUSTRIAL MANUFACTURING WITH CUTTING-EDGE LASER TEXTURING

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In an increasingly competitive and digitalized industrial landscape, both traditional robotics and the emerging framework of Industry 4.0 demand solutions that enhance efficiency, durability, and functionality of components. In this context, Tekniker—a technological institute within the Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA)—has demonstrated remarkable progress in the field of laser texturing, promising a revolution in the way industrial surfaces and components are produced.

At the international Mesic 2025 conference held in Bilbao from June 18 to 20, Tekniker, as an official sponsor, showcased the outcomes of its R&D initiatives. These projects focus on the application of laser technology to endow surfaces with specific functional properties, unlocking a wide array of possibilities across various industrial fields.

One of the highlights was the presentation of a laser-textured surface developed under the Infunda project, supported by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation. This surface demonstrates easy-to-clean properties, making it an especially promising solution for sectors where hygiene and contamination resistance are critical, such as agriculture and healthcare. The Infunda project also confirmed the industrial viability of using ultra-short pulse lasers for texturing, a cutting-edge technology that could revolutionize the large-scale production of polymer containers in the food and automotive industries.

Julen Molinuevo, a researcher at Tekniker, emphasized the innovative potential of this technology in transferring functional textures onto three-dimensional parts with complex geometries. This capability significantly broadens the scope of laser texturing applications, allowing the customization of texture types and dimensions to suit specific requirements. Examples include surfaces engineered with anti-icing or antibacterial properties—essential for improving safety and performance in demanding environments.

Tekniker’s developments in laser texturing represent a major leap in advancing industrial processes. By delivering solutions that go beyond mere surface aesthetics, this technology exemplifies how research and innovation in robotics and advanced materials are laying the foundation for a smarter, more efficient, and future-ready era of industrial manufacturing.

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THE POWER OF AUTOMATION: YASKAWA MH-SERIES NOW WITH HIGHER PAYLOADS

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Industrial robotics is evolving at a remarkable pace, and Yaskawa Motoman continues to lead the way with its MH series of material-handling robots. Known for their versatility and efficiency, these robots have taken a significant leap forward with the introduction of models capable of handling heavier loads—reshaping the boundaries of what’s possible in industrial automation.

At the forefront of this advancement is the MH215, a robot that stands out for its speed, power, and precision. Built to handle large components, it features highly durable drive units on each of its primary axes. Despite its rapid movements, the MH215 maintains exceptional positional repeatability at ±0.2 mm, ensuring stability and accuracy even in the most demanding operations.

Its reach is impressive: a vertical span of 3,894 mm and a horizontal extension of 2,912 mm allow it to manage complex tasks with ease. The MH215 excels in rigorous applications such as machine tending, pick-and-place operations, spot welding, and cutting—making it a comprehensive solution for a wide range of industries.

The MH series has undergone a significant transformation with the integration of high-payload models. While previous iterations included robots with lighter load capacities—such as the MH5 and MH6, and medium-range versions like the MH50 and its extended-reach variants—the inclusion of the MH215 and its 165 kg, 185 kg, and 250 kg versions has ushered in a new era of performance. This expansion not only enables the handling of much heavier parts but also streamlines production line design, lowering costs and improving operational efficiency.

These robotic advancements have been embraced across multiple industries that require precise handling of heavy components. In the automotive sector, companies like Toyota and Ford use models like the MH215 and the MH50 II-35 for spot welding and the assembly of large parts. In metallurgy and manufacturing, General Motors integrates MH50 units for cutting and manipulating metal components. In construction, firms rely on these robots to manage bulky materials such as steel beams and concrete blocks. Even in electronics and technology, giants like Bosch and Siemens employ MH-series robots for the assembly of electronic parts and the handling of industrial batteries.

The benefits are clear. These high-capacity robots offer greater load-handling capabilities, reduce the need for complex machinery by offering streamlined robotic solutions, enhance efficiency in repetitive tasks, and adapt seamlessly to a wide variety of applications—from welding to large-scale assembly.

As the demands of the industrial world grow more dynamic, robotics continues to evolve to meet them. Through the expansion of its MH series, Yaskawa Motoman reinforces its commitment to innovation and productivity—delivering tools that empower companies to grow, adapt, and face new challenges with confidence.

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COLLABORATIVE ROBOTS: THE EVOLUTION OF HUMAN LABOR IN THE AGE OF AUTOMATION

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In an increasingly automated industrial world, collaborative robots—or cobots—are redefining the meaning of human work. Far from replacing people, these machines are designed to work alongside them, enhancing efficiency, safety, and quality in sectors such as automotive, electronics, food production, and logistics. With an annual growth rate exceeding 30%, cobots have become one of the most accessible and effective tools for companies undergoing digital transformation.

Unlike traditional industrial robots, cobots are lightweight, flexible machines equipped with advanced sensors that allow them to interact safely with humans. They don’t require safety cages or complex programming, which makes their integration into existing production lines significantly easier.

These robots offer a host of advantages. They can operate continuously—day and night—performing repetitive tasks such as assembly, welding, packaging, or visual inspection. This boosts productivity without the need to expand the workforce. Thanks to built-in proximity sensors and automatic stop mechanisms, they also improve workplace safety by detecting human presence and adapting their behavior accordingly. Their modular design and simple programming make them highly adaptable: companies can quickly reconfigure them to perform different tasks based on shifting production needs. Moreover, the low initial investment and ease of implementation make cobots an especially appealing solution for small and medium-sized enterprises looking to automate without major capital outlays. Their precision and consistency also mean fewer errors and higher product quality.

Real-world applications show how cobots are already reshaping industry. At Amazon distribution centers, robots like Hercules and Proteus move and organize goods, while cobots such as Sequoia and Sparrow use artificial intelligence to carry out selection and sorting tasks. In Australia, the bakery Priestley’s Gourmet Delights has adopted an advanced production system incorporating cobots and autonomous vehicles, doubling its production capacity and creating new specialized jobs. Meanwhile, automakers like BMW and Ford use cobots on their assembly lines for welding, component installation, and adhesive applications—streamlining operations while reducing the risk of workplace injury.

Industry statistics reinforce this trend. In 2023, cobots accounted for 11% of all industrial robots installed, with annual sales approaching $3 billion and a growth rate exceeding 30%. Their implementation has been linked to productivity increases of 20–30%, error reductions of 10–20%, and safety improvements of 15–25% across various industrial applications.

Collaborative robots are transforming the workplace by enabling safer and more efficient interactions between people and machines. By taking on repetitive or hazardous tasks, they allow workers to focus on higher-value activities such as innovation and problem-solving. Their accessibility and versatility make them a key tool for business competitiveness in the digital age. From vehicle assembly, soldering, and quality control in the automotive industry, to circuit board assembly in electronics, to food sorting and labeling, warehouse logistics, or medical tasks like sample processing and surgical assistance—cobots are not only driving efficiency and quality, but also contributing to safer and more sustainable work environments.

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ARTHUR: A Technological Revolution in Arthritis Treatment

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Arthritis, a debilitating condition affecting millions of people worldwide, may have found a new ally in the fight against pain and inflammation: ARTHUR (Arthritis Ultrasound Robot). This groundbreaking ultrasound robot, developed by the Danish company ROPCA ApS in collaboration with KUKA, a leader in robotics, is built on the foundation of KUKA’s LBR Med medical robotic arm. Promising to revolutionize the way this complex disease is treated, ARTHUR offers a more precise, personalized, and potentially more effective therapeutic approach.
Arthritis encompasses a range of conditions that cause pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints. Current treatments vary widely, from medications and physical therapy to surgical interventions in severe cases. However, identifying the optimal therapy and ensuring its precise delivery often present significant challenges. It is within this context that ARTHUR emerges, merging cutting-edge robotic technology with the therapeutic benefits of ultrasound. By offering millimeter-level precision, ARTHUR ensures that ultrasonic energy is delivered optimally to maximize therapeutic outcomes.
Unlike a human therapist, ARTHUR is a sophisticated robotic system specifically designed to administer ultrasound treatments in a controlled and precise manner. Equipped with a high-precision robotic arm and an advanced imaging guidance system—such as MRI or diagnostic ultrasound—ARTHUR is capable of targeting affected joints with extraordinary accuracy. Its core lies in its unparalleled ability to locate inflamed or damaged tissue within a joint. Utilizing the integration of medical imaging and advanced robotic programming, ARTHUR directs therapeutic ultrasound waves specifically to the problematic area, significantly reducing exposure to surrounding tissues.
Therapeutic ultrasound has long been used to alleviate pain and inflammation by stimulating blood circulation and promoting tissue healing. Yet, the effectiveness of these treatments has historically depended on the skill of the therapist administering them. ARTHUR changes this paradigm entirely by ensuring millimeter-accurate energy delivery, thus maximizing the therapeutic benefits of each session.
The potential benefits of integrating ARTHUR into arthritis treatment are profound. It represents a milestone in the intersection of medical technology and patient care. By delivering targeted therapy with unparalleled precision, ARTHUR not only increases the likelihood of effective treatment but also sets a new standard for what is possible in the realm of robotic-assisted healthcare. For patients battling the daily challenges of arthritis, ARTHUR offers not just a glimpse of relief but a promise of a transformative approach to managing this chronic condition.

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SIMPLE ROBOT PROGRAMMING IN MEDIUM-SIZED COMPANIES: THE SUCCESS STORY OF ROBERT BÜRKLE AND THE SRCI INTERFACE

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Industrial automation is no longer a luxury reserved for large corporations. Today, even mid-sized companies are embracing innovative technologies to streamline their operations. A prime example is the German manufacturer Robert Bürkle GmbH, which has successfully integrated industrial robots into its production lines thanks to the Standard Robot Control Interface (SRCI).

Based in Freudenstadt, in the Baden-Württemberg region, Robert Bürkle specializes in manufacturing laminating systems for credit cards and photovoltaic modules, as well as painting systems for the furniture and wood-processing industries. In particular, the company faced a growing need for automation in handling lightweight panels used in caravan manufacturing—some weighing up to 250 kilograms. Robots became essential.

However, Bürkle encountered a major challenge: a shortage of skilled professionals in robot programming. Traditional programming methods required in-depth knowledge of each robot manufacturer’s proprietary system, making integration complex and costly.

To overcome this, Bürkle adopted the SRCI interface, which allows robots to be programmed directly through the PLC (Programmable Logic Controller)—eliminating the need for specialized knowledge of each robot brand. SRCI provides a library of PLC function modules that simplify robot control and integration.

The company installed a Yaskawa MOTOMAN GP225 handling robot, capable of lifting up to 225 kilograms with a reach of 2,702 mm. Thanks to SRCI, the PLC programmer was able to work within a familiar environment and complete commissioning quickly. The company also leveraged a digital twin to optimize system design and fine-tuning, improving efficiency even further.

This implementation reflects a broader trend toward standardization and simplification in industrial robotics. Developed by Siemens in collaboration with Profibus & Profinet International (PI), SRCI aims to create a universal interface between PLCs and robots, making programming and operation more accessible across different platforms.

Universal Robots has also integrated SRCI into its software, enhancing the connectivity of its collaborative robots and enabling seamless integration with Siemens PLCs. This simplifies setup and accelerates deployment in production lines built around the Siemens ecosystem.

Robert Bürkle’s experience shows that adopting standardized interfaces like SRCI can be a game-changer for mid-sized companies looking to automate without relying on niche programming expertise. Standardization not only reduces costs and implementation time but also opens the door to broader adoption of industrial robotics.

As more robot and PLC manufacturers embrace standards like SRCI, integrating robots into industrial environments will become increasingly accessible, efficient, and scalable—empowering companies of all sizes to embrace the future of automation.

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THE FUTURE OF LOGISTICS: AUTONOMOUS ROBOTS IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN

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Modern logistics is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the integration of autonomous robots into the supply chain. These robots, powered by artificial intelligence, are revolutionizing how goods are stored, sorted, and delivered—cutting costs and speeding up operations. Industry giants like Amazon and Walmart are leading the way, adopting cutting-edge technologies to boost efficiency and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are at the heart of this shift. Equipped with sensors, cameras, and AI algorithms, these mobile units can navigate complex environments and perform tasks without human intervention. In logistics, they’re being used for everything from transporting goods within warehouses to sorting items and preparing orders for shipment.

One of the most significant advantages of AMRs is their ability to reduce operational costs. By taking over repetitive and physically demanding tasks, they help companies lower labor expenses while maintaining high productivity. Their capacity to work around the clock—24/7—also means faster order fulfillment and shorter delivery times, which translates into better customer satisfaction.

Accuracy is another key benefit. Thanks to advanced computer vision and AI, these robots can perform tasks with a level of precision that minimizes errors in sorting and packing. This not only improves quality control but also reduces returns and associated costs.

Space optimization is yet another area where AMRs shine. Unlike traditional systems, these robots can navigate narrow aisles and make better use of vertical storage, allowing for higher storage density and more efficient use of warehouse space.

The numbers speak for themselves. The global market for autonomous robots in logistics and warehousing is projected to grow from $2.96 billion in 2023 to $18.56 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.6%. Adoption of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) has surged by 70%, with over 65% of large-scale distribution centers now using them to enhance operational efficiency. Meanwhile, the use of mobile collaborative robots has increased by 75%, further driving warehouse automation.

The integration of autonomous robots is not just a technological upgrade—it’s a strategic shift that’s redefining the supply chain. By improving speed, accuracy, and space utilization, these robots are helping companies meet rising consumer expectations while staying agile and cost-effective. As technology continues to evolve, the role of autonomous robots in logistics is only expected to grow, ushering in a new era of smart, responsive, and highly efficient supply chains.

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