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MOBILE ROBOTS OR HUMAN WORKERS? A DICHOTOMY THAT NO LONGER MAKES SENSE

For years, the discussion about whether machines will replace people has marked the debate in industrial automation. However, in the current context of accelerated technological transformation, posing this dilemma as a direct competition between mobile robots and human personnel is not only simplistic but counterproductive. In reality, intelligent collaboration between both actors is proving to be the true driver of industrial progress.
More than competition: a strategic alliance
The “robots vs. humans” approach is an increasingly obsolete proposition. Leading automation companies have already understood that the future of productivity and efficiency does not depend on replacing people with machines, but on leveraging the best of both worlds. While mobile robots (AMR, for its acronym in English) provide precision, speed, and continuous availability, human operators offer judgment, adaptability, and problem-solving ability in complex contexts.
Tangible advantages of integrating mobile robots
The acquisition of autonomous mobile robots can generate significant benefits from day one, especially in logistics, industrial, and manufacturing environments. Some of the most notable advantages are:
Reduction of downtime and unnecessary movements: AMRs optimize routes and perform internal deliveries with millimetric efficiency, allowing human operators to focus on higher-value tasks.
Greater job security: Mobile robots can take on repetitive or dangerous tasks, minimizing risks for personnel.
Operational scalability: Faced with increases in demand, scaling with mobile robots is faster and more flexible than hiring and training new employees in the short term.
Real-time data and traceability: Modern AMRs generate key information for continuous improvement, such as circulation heat maps, logistics flows, and delivery times.
In which tasks do mobile robots excel?
Mobile robots are especially effective in tasks where repetitiveness, precision, and autonomy are key. Some examples of outstanding applications include:
Internal logistics: Transport of materials, parts, and tools between workstations.
Hospital environments: Delivery of medicines, samples, and food autonomously and safely.
Distribution centers and e-commerce: Optimization of picking and product replenishment.
Industrial manufacturing: Supply of production lines and movement of semi-finished products.
Robots and humans: a powerful synergy
Far from replacing staff, mobile robots are designed to collaborate with them. Collaborative robotics — both fixed and mobile — prioritizes safety and smooth integration with the human environment. Modern AMRs have advanced sensors, SLAM mapping, and dynamic navigation that allow them to move in shared spaces without interfering with human activities.
Moreover, delegating the most routine or physical tasks to robots frees human teams to focus on functions that require technical judgment, analysis, or interpersonal contact.
Do not give up human value: train and empower your team
Investing in mobile robotics should not imply a reduction in human talent, but an opportunity for its revaluation. Training staff in the use, supervision, and maintenance of robots can open new professional doors within the organization. Operators cease to be “labor” to become technical supervisors, system integrators, or responsible for operational data analysis.
By training your team in this technological transition, you not only improve their employability but also reinforce their commitment and sense of belonging in an evolving environment.
Integration, not substitution
The true qualitative leap in the industry does not come from choosing between people or robots, but from learning to combine them intelligently. Mobile robots are not a threat but a strategic tool to make companies more competitive, operations safer, and people more valuable.
Incorporating technology without losing sight of the human factor is the key to sustainable, efficient, and human automation.

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USED INDUSTRIAL ROBOTS: A SMART SOLUTION FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

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In a world where sustainability and industrial efficiency must go hand in hand, the reuse of industrial robots emerges as a key strategy to reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing. Beyond being an economical alternative, purchasing second-hand robots promotes responsible practices that benefit both companies and the planet.Conservation of Resources and Waste Reduction The manufacturing of a new industrial robot requires a large amount of raw materials and energy. By opting for refurbished robots, companies decrease the demand for these resources, thus promoting a circular economy model. Additionally, reuse prevents well-functioning robots from ending up in landfills, reducing the accumulation of electronic waste and extending the life of highly sophisticated technological equipment. Energy Efficiency and Lower Emissions Many modern industrial robots are designed to operate with high energy efficiency. However, their initial production generates a significant carbon footprint. By reusing these devices, companies can indirectly reduce the emissions associated with the manufacturing of new models. Moreover, robots can operate under conditions that minimize the consumption of auxiliary resources such as lighting and climate control, further decreasing the environmental impact.Process Optimization and Waste Reduction One of the greatest benefits of industrial automation is its ability to improve precision and repeatability in manufacturing processes. This not only increases the quality of the final product but also reduces the amount of waste generated by errors or rework. By integrating used industrial robots into their production lines, companies can maintain high levels of efficiency without compromising sustainability.The reuse of industrial robots not only represents an economic advantage but also a strategic decision to reduce the environmental impact of the manufacturing industry. By conserving resources, improving energy efficiency, and optimizing production processes, companies can move towards a more sustainable and responsible model. Betting on used industrial robots is undoubtedly a smart solution for a greener future.Make a Difference with URC! If you are looking for a reliable and efficient option to integrate used industrial robots into your company, URC is your best ally. With a wide variety of refurbished robots from leading brands such as KUKA, ABB, Fanuc, and Yaskawa, we offer solutions tailored to your needs. Join the sustainable automation revolution and discover how URC can help you optimize your processes while reducing your environmental impact. Visit us at URC and find the perfect robot for your business!

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YASKAWA BOOSTS AFRIT’S PRODUCTIVITY WITH ADVANCED ROBOT WELDING

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Afrit, the leading trailer manufacturer in South Africa, has achieved a significant breakthrough in its productivity by implementing innovative technologies in its manufacturing processes. In 2019, the company began executing an ambitious five-year plan with the aim of optimizing the quality of its products and improving workflow at its plant. The pillars of this plan are based on reducing production costs, improving performance, and aligning with the advances of Industry 4.0, with a clear focus on digitalization and automation.

Investment in Robotic Welding Technology

One of Afrit’s major investments was the installation of an advanced robotic welding cell from Yaskawa, equipped with Motoman MH2010 robots. These robots have a large working area, thanks to their Z and Y axes, which reach 3 and 3.5 meters, respectively. The total length of the system is 24 meters, allowing it to adapt to the production of large components, such as trailer containers. The support pillars, more than three meters high, and the ability of the robots to move around the containers ensure precise and efficient welding.

The welding system includes manipulators at the ends that allow the containers to be rotated during the process, ensuring that each part is worked on evenly. Additionally, the robots are equipped with cameras that offer real-time control and monitoring, allowing supervision of the work quality and making adjustments as needed.

Increase in Productivity and Cost Reduction

Thanks to the implementation of this robotic cell, Afrit has managed to double its productivity, increasing production from 8 containers per day to between 16 and 20. This increase has resulted in significant cost reductions and an improvement in the quality of the final products. Furthermore, the incorporation of Delfoi Apexiz software has been crucial in optimizing processes, as it has reduced manual programming time by 80% and programming time by 60%. This has allowed Afrit to accelerate production times and minimize errors associated with manual tasks.

New Facilities and Infrastructure Improvements

As part of its expansion plan, Afrit has also invested in the construction of a new 12,500 m² plant to house the new equipment and improve material flow in production. This expansion has been key to increasing manufacturing capacity and facilitating the integration of new technologies. The plant now features advanced equipment, such as the NitraLife nitrogen gas filtration system, which ensures the quality of the gas used in cutting machines, and the new BLM LT 8.10 3D tubular tube, which optimizes production processes.

Innovation in Component Design

In product design, Afrit has adopted a more flexible approach, with the ability to produce up to 2,293 different variations of tubular components. The company has also invested in 3D design software, such as PTC’s CREO 3D, used by its team of 23 engineers in the R&D department. This technology allows for greater customization of products and contributes to the continuous improvement of efficiency in the design phase.

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DOBOT TAKES A BIG LEAP: $87.6 MILLION IN ITS DEBUT IN HONG KONG

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The Chinese collaborative robot manufacturer reaches a significant milestone by debuting on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with ambitious international expansion plans between 2025 and 2029.
Hong Kong, January 16, 2025. Dobot, the leading manufacturer of collaborative robots or “cobots” in China, has just reached an important milestone in its history by raising $681 million ($87.6 million in its initial public offering – IPO) in its debut on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. This event not only marks a significant advance for the company but also positions Dobot as the first Chinese cobot manufacturer to achieve a successful debut in the international stock market.
Dobot’s stock closed its first day on the market with a slight increase of 0.7%, trading at 18.94 Hong Kong dollars (approximately 2.40 US dollars), giving the company a market capitalization of 167 billion dollars. Although the gain seems modest, it represents an important step for a company known for its constant investment in innovation and global expansion.
A Growing Giant in Collaborative Robotics
Founded in 2015 and based in Shenzhen, Dobot has established itself as the second-largest global company in collaborative robots, with a market share of 13%. The company specializes in four and six-axis robots, as well as composite models, which are used in sectors as varied as education, light industry, retail, healthcare, and chemistry.
With an ambitious vision, Dobot has seen a notable increase in its international presence. According to data from the research firm China Insights Consultancy, more than 59% of its revenue comes from markets outside China, standing out in regions such as Europe, America, and Asia-Pacific. This international growth has been a key driver in its revenue, which in 2023 amounted to 287 million yuan ($39.3 million), an increase from 241 million yuan in 2022.
Despite Losses, the Future is Promising
Although the company has recorded losses in recent years due to its high spending on research and development, as well as its expansion, Dobot maintains an optimistic long-term vision. In the first half of 2023, the company recorded a loss of 59.9 million yuan ($8.2 million), although revenue increased by 9.6% compared to the previous year. In 2023, losses nearly doubled to 103 million yuan. Nevertheless, the company expects its investments in technological innovation and international expansion to bear fruit in the near future.
The company plans to further expand its presence outside China between 2025 and 2029, establishing three new subsidiaries abroad and strengthening its marketing teams in key markets. This expansion will be essential for its goal of consolidating its leadership in the collaborative robotics sector.
Challenges on the Road and Competition
Dobot has observed how competitors have tried to go public without success due to regulatory issues. These challenges highlight the need for a solid approach to face the growing competition.
The cobot market continues to expand rapidly, driven by increasing automation in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and customer service. With its expansion plans and a strong focus on innovation, Dobot is poised to become a key player that could redefine the global industrial robotics landscape in the coming years.
The successful debut on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange is just the beginning for Dobot, a company that is demonstrating that collaborative robotics, beyond factories, is destined to become a key tool in various sectors of the global economy. With its eyes set on the future and its international expansion strategy, Dobot is in a favorable position to continue innovating and leading in the global cobot market.
The race to dominate the collaborative robotics market has just begun, and Dobot has made its first big step.

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KUKA UNVEILS NEW HEAVYWEIGHT AUTONOMOUS MOBILE ROBOT AT PROMAT 2025: INNOVATION AND FLEXIBILITY FOR INDUSTRY

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KUKA Robotics, a global leader in industrial automation solutions, is set to amaze attendees at PROMAT 2025 with its new heavyweight addition to the family of autonomous mobile robots (AMR): the KMP 3000P. This innovative robot will be unveiled from March 17 to 20 at McCormick Place in Chicago, where visitors to booth N7307 can explore its advanced capabilities that are transforming logistics and manufacturing production.

The KMP 3000P is a robust and flexible solution designed to transport heavy loads of up to three tons in any direction, including diagonal angles. Its omnidirectional drive system allows it to maneuver nimbly and precisely in the tightest spaces of production facilities. Equipped with four integrated 3D cameras and two laser scanners, this mobile robot offers a 360-degree view, enabling it to autonomously detect and navigate around obstacles, optimizing both safety and operational efficiency. Thanks to this advanced technology, the KMP 3000P eliminates the need for floor guide systems, facilitating its integration into any environment.

The KMP 3000P also features an innovative inductive charging system, allowing the platform to wirelessly recharge at multiple points within the production plant, further enhancing its flexibility. This feature is key to maximizing the robot’s uptime without interruptions, enabling a continuous work cycle.

At KUKA’s booth at PROMAT 2025, visitors will be able to see how the KMP 3000P works in conjunction with a KR QUANTEC industrial robot. This robotic cell will be a live demonstration of how the KMP 3000P transports heavy rolls to the KR QUANTEC, where these materials are handled and placed at different points on the production line. Equipped with AIRSKIN®, the KR QUANTEC ensures fast and safe handling, even in barrier-free environments, without compromising its load capacity or reliability.

In addition to the demonstration with the KMP 3000P, KUKA will present a second interactive cell featuring its KUKA LBR iisy cobot and the AMR KMP 600P. Attendees will be able to participate in a unique experience where the cobot will select an item chosen by the visitor from a tablet and transport it with the AMR KMP 600P to another cobot that will deliver the item directly to the user. This interactive flow allows firsthand experience of how KUKA’s robotic solutions can enhance the efficiency of material handling and transport in highly dynamic work environments.

The KMP 600P is a compact, high-performance platform designed to operate in confined spaces, with a load capacity of up to 600 kg. It is ideal for transporting materials from the warehouse to workstations or assembly lines, optimizing production flow and minimizing downtime.

To delve into the benefits of mobile robotics, Denise Stafford, KUKA’s Director of Business Development, will offer a lecture titled “How Mobile Robots Have Evolved: Lessons Learned After a Decade of Use” on Monday, March 17, at Theater I of PROMAT 2025. In this session, Stafford will provide valuable insights on how to choose the most suitable robotic solution to address the complex challenges of modern industry, helping manufacturers increase productivity while facing labor shortages.

KUKA, known for its expertise in industrial automation, supports its solutions with comprehensive services that include training, engineering, system simulation, spare parts, and robot refurbishment. Additionally, access to the my.KUKA.com platform ensures efficient technical support and fast customer service throughout North America.

With these innovations, KUKA reinforces its commitment to the digital transformation of the industry, providing automation tools that not only optimize production but also improve safety and efficiency in the workplace.

About KUKA Robotics

KUKA is one of the leading global providers of industrial automation and robotics solutions. Its product range includes everything from industrial robots to autonomous mobile platforms, designed to enhance efficiency and flexibility in various sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. KUKA offers comprehensive solutions that include hardware, software, and support services, always aiming to drive productivity and innovation in modern industry.

PROMAT 2025 will be held from March 17 to 20 at McCormick Place in Chicago. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover how KUKA robots are changing the future of industrial automation!

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DIGITISED ROBOTIC CELLS: THE FUTURE OF INDUSTRY 4.0 IN ACTION

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Industry 4.0 is redefining the boundaries of modern manufacturing, and one of its fundamental pillars is advanced robotics. With the introduction of digitized robotic cells, manufacturers are transforming their processes to achieve greater flexibility, efficiency, and productivity. Iconic brands like KUKA, FANUC, ABB, Yaskawa Motoman, and Kawasaki are leading this transformation by integrating advanced solutions in digitalization, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and digital twins. But how is this new era of robotics impacting factories and the industry in general?

The Convergence of Robotics and Industry 4.0
Digitalization 4.0 has opened up a range of opportunities for robotic cells. These cells, which previously operated in isolation, are now connected to a network of intelligent systems that allow for more efficient management of operations. Through cloud-based platforms and IoT, robots can exchange data in real-time, access remote diagnostics, and perform predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and optimizing production processes.

The adoption of artificial intelligence and the analysis of large volumes of data allow robots to not only be smarter but also more autonomous, capable of adapting to changing conditions and performing complex tasks without human intervention.

KUKA: Innovation in Connectivity and Digital Simulation
KUKA, one of the giants in industrial robotics, has implemented cutting-edge technologies such as the KUKA Sunrise.OS system and the KUKA Connect platform to facilitate the programming, control, and monitoring of its robots. The former, an advanced operating system, allows for intuitive and flexible programming, while the latter, cloud-based, connects robots to a global network for real-time data access. This connectivity facilitates predictive maintenance and improves factory resource management, optimizing production.

Additionally, the integration of digital twins allows KUKA to simulate and optimize production processes before physically implementing them, reducing risks and improving operational efficiency.

FANUC: Pioneers in IoT and Predictive Maintenance
FANUC, another key player in industrial robotics, has adopted the concepts of FANUC FIELD and ROBOTICS+, IoT-based platforms that offer advanced data analysis and predictive maintenance capabilities. These solutions allow operators to manage and monitor robots from anywhere in the world, ensuring performance remains at optimal levels.

The Arc Mate 100iD robots, primarily used for welding applications, are a clear example of how FANUC has integrated Digitalization 4.0 into its robotic cells. Equipped with advanced sensors, these robots can make real-time adjustments to their welding paths, improving the precision and quality of the final product.

ABB: Connectivity and Simulation for Production Optimization
Swiss giant ABB has launched ABB Ability, an industrial IoT platform that connects its robots, controllers, and other machinery to a digitized network for real-time data monitoring. This platform not only facilitates data collection but also allows for robot diagnostics and failure prediction before they occur.

The IRB 6700, one of ABB’s most robust robots, exemplifies how the brand is incorporating advanced digital technologies into its robotic cells. Through ABB Ability, users can access real-time operational data, improving process efficiency and ensuring consistent product quality.

Yaskawa Motoman: Flexibility and Collaboration in Production
Yaskawa Motoman has implemented collaborative robotics solutions with the MOTOMAN HC10, a robot designed to work safely and efficiently alongside humans. Equipped with advanced sensors, this robot can adapt to its work environment, making it an ideal option for assembly, handling, and packaging tasks. Additionally, through its Yaskawa Fleet Manager platform, users can manage multiple robots in the plant, optimizing resource use and increasing productivity.

Moreover, the integration of predictive maintenance through IoT platforms has allowed Yaskawa Motoman to reduce unexpected downtime, improving operational profitability.

Kawasaki Robotics: Collaborative Robotics and Digital Twins
Kawasaki Robotics is also adopting advanced Industry 4.0 technologies, standing out for its implementation of IoT and digital twins. The RS007N, a compact robot, is a clear example of how the brand is digitizing its processes. Equipped with intelligent sensors and its own IoT platform, it allows for real-time data collection to optimize assembly and material handling processes.

Like other brands, Kawasaki uses digital twins to simulate the behavior of its robots in virtual environments before making changes in the real world, allowing for adjustments without interrupting production.

The Future of Robotics: More Connected, Smarter, More Efficient
The future of robotic cells is promising. The integration of advanced technologies such as IoT, artificial intelligence, digital simulation, and digital twins is making robots increasingly autonomous, flexible, and efficient. Brands like KUKA, FANUC, ABB, Yaskawa Motoman, and Kawasaki are leading this change, offering advanced robotics solutions that enable companies to improve their competitiveness and reduce costs.

Digitalization 4.0 is not only changing how robots interact with humans and machines but is also transforming the global manufacturing landscape. As factories become smarter and more connected environments, the benefits of digitized robotics become increasingly evident, enabling faster, more flexible, and sustainable production.

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ROBOTS AT CIIF 2024: INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGICAL STRENGTH IN SHANGHAI

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In the bustling city of Shanghai, where neon lights intertwine with the silhouettes of skyscrapers, the 2024 China International Industry Fair (CIIF) took place. This event, which brings together industry leaders, engineers, and robotics enthusiasts, did not disappoint. More than 350 robot brands gathered in the vast halls of the exhibition center, and Chinese companies

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