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Among the highlighted activities, FANUC will showcase two robotic cells specifically designed for the educational sector. These plug-and-play solutions allow students to gain hands-on experience in programming and operating industrial robots, facilitated by intuitive touch interfaces. One of the cells features the 6-axis ER-4iA robot, while the other showcases the collaborative model CRX-10iA. Both will perform live pick-and-place tasks during the event.

In addition to these educational cells, FANUC's stand will feature the popular "kicker" robotic cell that plays football and an industrial vision cell capable of selecting various fruits, demonstrating the versatility and precision of their systems. These exhibitions highlight the benefits of automation in sectors such as food and beverage, automotive, aerospace, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), pharmaceutical, and general manufacturing.

Oliver Selby, Head of Sales at FANUC UK, emphasizes the importance of Automation UK in the manufacturing calendar: "Automation UK is a key event in the manufacturing calendar for us here at FANUC UK. By bringing together robot manufacturers, system integrators, end-users, and academia, it is the ideal platform to showcase our latest solutions for both the industry and the educational sector. We look forward to welcoming visitors at stand B70 to learn more."

This participation in Automation UK is part of FANUC's broader strategy to close the skills gap in the UK. The company collaborates with WorldSkills UK in the Industrial Robotics competition, operates the accredited FANUC Academy training center in Coventry, and offers industry-specific courses in partnership with Sierra 57. Additionally, it provides educational packages for schools, colleges, universities, and training providers, thereby strengthening the future talent pool in the manufacturing sector.

FANUC's dedication to skill development is evident in its continuous support for educational initiatives and its effort to integrate automation into the academic curriculum, ensuring that the UK maintains its competitiveness on the global industrial stage.

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SELF combines a KUKA robotic arm with advanced AI and machine vision technologies to autonomously manage and deliver orders. This system enables efficient and adaptive operation, optimizing resources and improving service quality. Among its advantages are the ability to handle multiple orders simultaneously, maintain consistent quality standards, and offer a personalized customer experience. Additionally, the restaurant incorporates sustainable practices, such as the use of recyclable materials and energy-efficient systems.

The collaboration between robots and humans at SELF redefines the dining experience, allowing staff to focus on tasks that require a human touch, such as customer service. This advancement not only improves operational efficiency but also sets a new standard for the food industry, demonstrating how automation can elevate levels of precision, personalization, and sustainability.

The technology of the robotized restaurant SELF, located at Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport, is primarily integrated into the areas of order management, food preparation, and delivery. This system combines advanced artificial intelligence, machine vision, and a KUKA robotic arm designed to operate autonomously and efficiently.

Role of KUKA

KUKA plays a crucial role in this project by providing its advanced robotics technology. The KUKA robotic arm, equipped with a claw and five tactile fingers, is the core of the system. This robot not only manages and organizes orders but also uses machine vision to ensure precision and quality in each preparation.

Robotic Models Used

The specific model used in SELF is a KUKA robotic arm designed for handling and delivery tasks. This robot can manage up to six orders simultaneously, optimizing wait times and reducing errors. Additionally, its continuous learning capability allows it to adapt to environmental needs and improve its performance over time.

This project is an example of the positive impact of industrial automation on traditional sectors, paving the way for a future where technology and innovation will transform how we interact with everyday services. The vision of KUKA and Areas in this project underscores the potential of robotics and AI to revolutionize the food industry and establish new paradigms in resource management and customer experience.

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A Center of Excellence for Industry 4.0

The KUKA College in Shenyang becomes a fundamental pillar for the training of engineers, technicians, and operators who seek to specialize in automation and robotics. With laboratories equipped with the latest technology, this center will offer practical and theoretical training on programming, maintenance, and optimization of industrial robots.

China, as the world's largest robotics market, increasingly demands qualified talent in automation. KUKA responds to this need by providing a learning environment that combines the expertise of its specialists with innovative methodologies to enhance the competitiveness of the Chinese manufacturing industry.

Key Benefits for Industry and Professionals

Advanced Training: Courses adapted to different levels, from beginners to robotics experts.
Practical Focus: Training in real environments with KUKA robots, simulators, and automation systems.
Industry Connection: Strategic alliances with companies and universities to strengthen knowledge transfer.
Innovation Boost: Promotion of the development of new automation solutions for sectors such as automotive, electronics, and logistics.
A Step Forward in Digital Transformation

With this new facility, KUKA strengthens its presence in China and its commitment to talent development in automation. This training center will not only benefit local companies but also contribute to the adoption of Industry 4.0 in the country, preparing the next generations of robotics experts.

The inauguration of the KUKA College in Shenyang marks a milestone in technical education and the advancement of automation in China, consolidating KUKA's leadership in the sector. With a focus on training and innovation, the company continues to build the future of smart manufacturing globally.

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A Technical Overview of FANUC's Giant

The new FANUC robot is designed to overcome challenges in demanding industrial environments. With a load capacity of 500 kg, this robot offers unparalleled precision and repeatability, which are crucial in applications such as heavy material handling, automotive assembly, and precision welding operations.

Some highlighted technical specifications include:

• Extensive Reach Area: It can operate over a wide range of motion, allowing greater flexibility in manufacturing operations.

• Millimetric Precision: This reduces the margin of error in critical operations, improving the quality of the final product.

• Energy Efficiency: Designed to minimize energy consumption without compromising operational performance.

• Advanced Sensor Integration: Enhances the robot's ability to adapt to complex tasks through real-time environmental assessment.

FANUC's Competitive Advantages

FANUC is known for its robust solutions, and its focus on innovation is evident with this launch. The company not only focuses on brute strength but also on offering intelligent robotic solutions that integrate logistics with operational efficiency. Here are some competitive advantages:

• Durability and Reliability: FANUC robots are famous for their long lifespan, which translates to a lower total cost of ownership.

• Global Support and Training: With extensive post-sale support and technical training, customers can maximize the potential of their robotic solutions.

• Modularity and Customization: Allows specific adaptations to meet the unique needs of various industries.

Impact on Key Sectors

The new FANUC robot is set to revolutionize sectors such as automotive, construction, and heavy industry. The ability to handle large and heavy objects with precision improves worker safety, reduces human errors, and increases productivity on the production line.

With its latest launch, FANUC reaffirms its position as a leader in industrial automation, delivering tools that not only increase production capacity but also optimize industrial processes to the next level of performance and efficiency.
The evolution of robotics continues to advance, and FANUC remains at the forefront, offering solutions that drive a future where precision and strength coexist harmoniously.

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Innovation in Robotic Dexterity

The research team, led by Professor Nathan Lepora, has designed a robotic hand that can operate in any orientation, even upside down, an unprecedented feat in robotics. This progress contrasts with the successes of OpenAI in 2019, which, despite being outstanding, required an expensive infrastructure with 19 cameras and over 6000 processors. In contrast, Lepora's team has demonstrated that similar results can be achieved using simpler and more cost-effective techniques.

Biology-Inspired Technology

The key to this advancement lies in the artificial tactile fingertips of the robotic hand, which mimic the internal structure of human skin. Using a 3D-printed mesh with pin-shaped papillae, the researchers have replicated human tactile sensitivity. These papillae are made with advanced 3D printers that can mix soft and hard materials to create complex structures similar to those found in biology.

Potential Applications

The Bristol robotic hand has the potential to revolutionize various industries. In product handling in supermarkets, for example, it could significantly improve efficiency and precision. Additionally, in waste sorting for recycling, the robotic hand could perform complex tasks more quickly and accurately than current methods.

Challenges and Future

Initially, the robotic hand had difficulty maintaining its grip when operating upside down, frequently dropping objects. However, after adjusting the training with tactile data, the hand began to operate correctly even in motion. This advancement was made possible by a research leadership award granted by the Leverhulme Trust to Professor Lepora.

The next step for this technology is to move beyond basic pick-and-rotate tasks to tackle more advanced examples of dexterity, such as manual assembly of objects, similar to building with Lego. This development could open new possibilities in automating complex tasks that require high precision and sensitivity.

The development of the four-fingered robotic hand with tactile fingertips by the University of Bristol represents a significant advancement in robotics. With potential applications in various industries and the ability to operate in any orientation, this innovation could transform the way many complex tasks are performed. The combination of advanced technology and cost-effective methods makes this development even more impressive and promising for the future of robotics.

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