Chris Probst, Omron’s automation technology product manager, was on hand to demonstrate the company’s new fleet of LD Series Mobile Robots, which it describes as self-navigating Autonomous Intelligent Vehicles (AIV). Designed to transform manufacturing and logistics, the robots are more independent than traditional Autonomous Guided Vehicles because they do not rely on fixed-path technology, allowing them to avoid obstacles and map their own environment.

JMP Engineering was showing off its palletising robot, and what it can do with a gripper to palletise crates of poultry or fresh produce. These sectors present a growing opportunity for the company, according to GM Paul Vassallo.

ABB took the wraps off its IRB 1200 at this year’s FoodPro, a food-grade industrial robot features the new Safe Move 2 functionality. Peter Bradbury, sales manager of Robot Packaging Solutions, said this meant food companies were no longer limited to using collaborative ‘cobots' to ensure staff safety, and the related compromise in speed and capacity. The Safe Move 2 functionality uses laser technology to detect the approach of humans, and it comes to a complete stop when an operator is close.

Universal Robots was demonstrating its range of collaborative robots for those seeking to reduce manual labour in pick and place, palletising, packing and inspection operations. Andrew Pether, head of the company’s regional technical support, says while many industrial robots require a safety fence to protect staff in the area, collaborative robots do not, which substantially reduces their footprint. Because they are relatively simple to reprogram, he says they can also be redeployed to a different part of the factory if necessary, making them suitable for smaller companies looking for more flexible automated solutions.

Kuka’s recently launched Hygienic Machine has been attracting attention from the meat industry as it's suited to applications involving direct contact with food, said Greg Sale, chief executive. The robot contains food-grade lubricants, is easily washable and corrosion resistant, and its design and materials prevent deposits from forming on the surface or screws of the six-axis robot. Its electrical interface is also located away from the primary contact area.