Randy Stott
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
Randy Stott is Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of AutomationMesh and President of Stott Publishing Inc. He has more than 30 years of experience in manufacturing and engineering trade publishing, including serving as publisher and editor-in-chief of Gear Technology and Power Transmission Engineering magazines from 2020-2025.
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Articles Written by Randy Stott
A strong trend in factory design is to place the controls at or near the sensors, cameras, gearboxes, robots and other machines in a line. The idea is that by decentralizing the control mechanism, manufacturers can realize significant cost savings, simplified commissioning and greater ease of maintenance. Read More
AutomationMesh had the opportunity to sit down with Brad Perry, Director of Warehouse & Distribution Sales for Fives Intralogistics Corp., at the recently held MODEX exhibition in Atlanta. Perry explained how Fives has continued to evolve by offering expanded products, services and capabilities outside the core technologies it’s known for. Read More
AutomationMesh sat down with Paul Haikal, Senior Commercial Product Manager at Rockwell Automation, to discuss the latest trends in SCADA, including what manufacturers need to know about the evolving state of manufacturing software in today's age of artificial intelligence and concerns over cybersecurity. Read MoreArticles Edited by Randy Stott
At Automate Booth #1801, Stäubli Robotics will present the company's latest advances in mobile robotics. The main attraction is the FL1500 autonomous counterbalance forklift, which will be demonstrated live in a fully automated application for the first time, highlighting Stäubli's capabilities in autonomous intralogistics solutions. The company will also showcase its other automation solutions, including the PF3 compact mobile platform. Read More
Omron Robotics announced expanded configuration options for the OL-450S Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR), adding new mast accessories for cart and load carrier transport across production and intralogistics operations.
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At its recent user conference, Robotiq introduced IQ, an AI-enabled platform designed to make robotic workcell integration faster, more predictable, and easier to scale. Enabling a shift from a manual, expert-dependent approach to automatic integration, IQ captures unstructured automation project data, coordinates engineering workflows, and helps partners generate validated workcell designs based on real customer inputs and historical deployment data from thousands of previous factory installations. Read More
The rise of humanoid robotics is transforming light and heavy industrial manufacturing as well as logistics, healthcare and service automation. These advanced robotic systems are designed to replicate human movement with precision, flexibility, and repeatability. To accomplish this, every internal component must operate with exceptional accuracy. One of the most critical components making this possible is the precision miniature and ultra-thin bearing. Read More
ABB announced its IE6 Hyper–Efficiency motor, which is certified to ATEX and IECEx requirements for use in hazardous areas. The new motor, based on ABB's magnet- and rare earth-free synchronous reluctance (SynRM) technology, offers up to 60 percent lower energy losses than the IE3 induction motors commonly used in Zones 1 and 2. This enables operators to realize a major boost in energy efficiency and avoided carbon emissions in industries where gas, vapor or dust might be present, such as chemicals, marine, oil & gas, pharmaceuticals and food & beverage. Read More
Rockwell Automation announced new capabilities of its EtherNet/IP In-cabinet Solution, expanding support for additional motor control and protection devices. The update enables manufacturers to connect more components inside the control panel, simplify wiring and gain deeper diagnostic insight, without redesigning their existing architecture. Read More
Schaeffler and VinDynamics, part of Vietnam’s Vingroup conglomerate, have agreed on a strategic partnership for humanoid robotics. The partnership centers on the development and supply of planetary gearboxes. These are central components of actuators that function as muscles and joints and enable humanoid robots to move. Under the partnership, the two companies will also jointly collect robot- and application-related data. They will use this data to help improve actuator design and performance and pave the way for future services, such as predictive maintenance. Read More
In the demanding field of humanoid robotics, strain wave reducers serve as the critical joint mechanisms. These drives dictate the absolute motion accuracy, torque density, and operational lifespan of the robot. As humanoid technology transitions from laboratory prototypes to practical applications, the demand for highly reliable and lightweight precision gearing has surged. Read More
Framo-Morat collaborated with a manufacturer of robotic warehouse solutions to redesign the satellite vehicles that transport totes from a highly dense storage structure to picking stations for product fulfillment. Read More
Tolomatic, Inc. will showcase its advanced electric actuation technologies at Automate 2026, June 22-25, Booth #120.
Tolomatic´s electric and servo linear actuators are designed to replace legacy hydraulic systems, providing benefits including improved performance, maintenance and operational data capture. Read MoreA strong trend in factory design is to place the controls at or near the sensors, cameras, gearboxes, robots and other machines in a line. The idea is that by decentralizing the control mechanism, manufacturers can realize significant cost savings, simplified commissioning and greater ease of maintenance. Read More 
Emerson showcased advanced fuel gas and fuel oil safety shut-off valve solutions designed to give boiler and burner OEMs greater design flexibility, installation freedom, and reduced total cost of ownership at the 2026 ABMA Boiler Expo. Read More
In automotive display manufacturing, adhesive solutions are the primary technology used to meet growing demand for sleek and ultra-thin frames. In cooperation with AUMOVIO, tesa is now taking the next step. The new solution combines state-of-the-art bonding technology with optimized material usage and pioneering concepts – enabling a controlled, detachable adhesive bond that simplifies corrections during production and repairs throughout the entire product life cycle. Read More
Medline announced a strategic agreement to implement next-generation warehouse automation from Symbotic, a provider of AI-enabled robotics technology, as part of the company's ongoing efforts to strengthen the resiliency, efficiency and scalability of the healthcare supply chain. According to their press release, Medline is the first healthcare company to deploy this technology. Read More
Appetronix announced it has acquired Cibotica, a leader in proprietary ingredient dispensing and portioning technology. The deal brings Cibotica's flagship product, an automated bowl and salad assembly system, to Appetronix along with the company's proprietary ingredient-agnostic dispensing platform, enabling Appetronix to rapidly scale robotic kitchen concepts across multiple cuisines beyond its current pizza operations. Read MoreAutomationMesh had the opportunity to sit down with Brad Perry, Director of Warehouse & Distribution Sales for Fives Intralogistics Corp., at the recently held MODEX exhibition in Atlanta. Perry explained how Fives has continued to evolve by offering expanded products, services and capabilities outside the core technologies it’s known for. Read More 
Rockwell Automation and Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Company shared at this month's Ice Cream & Cultured Innovation Conference how the ice cream producer is positioning its manufacturing operations for continued growth with enhanced production, quality and inventory management. Read More
Chef Robotics announced its robots have completed 100 million servings in production at customer facilities. According to the company's release, this is an order of magnitude more than all other food robotics companies combined, and Chef now holds the world's largest real-world food manipulation dataset and more in-production deformable material training data than any other physical AI company. Read More
Athena Technology Solutions, a provider of advanced MES solutions, announced the launch of FabOrchestrator, an agentic AI foundry designed to transform factory operations. Read More
For the past few years, AI has been the big new buzzword. Countless big tech hype men have gotten on stage and made a lot of very lofty promises about how AI will completely transform all our lives. This new tech is the next industrial revolution. It will allow you to manage your factory lines and predict tomorrow’s needs with unprecedented precision. It will fundamentally change how we do business from now on. And you don’t want to be left behind! Read More
DEEPX and Hyundai Motor Group's Robotics LAB have announced a strategic collaboration to jointly develop a next-generation physical AI computing platform for advanced robotics. The platform will be capable of running large-scale generative AI models in real time within robotic systems, with the goal of building an integrated physical AI platform purpose-built for robotics. Read More
At MODEX 2026, Delta demonstrated how industrial vehicle charging infrastructure, drive systems, robotics, machine vision, motion control, and intelligent control platforms can be combined to create fully integrated material flow solutions that support intelligent intralogistics operations. Read More
Siemens and the UK robot manufacturer Humanoid announced that Humanoid’s HMND 01 wheeled Alpha humanoid robot, built using the NVIDIA physical AI stack, has been successfully tested in operations at Siemens’ electronics factory in Erlangen, Germany, performing autonomous logistics tasks. Read More
For the first time, the BMW Group is now bringing Physical AI to Europe and launching a pilot project with humanoid robots at the Leipzig plant. The project aims to integrate humanoid robotics into existing series production of cars and to explore further applications in the production of batteries and components. Read More
NVIDIA is partnering with the global robotics ecosystem — including leading robot brain developers, industrial robot giants and humanoid pioneers — to power production-scale physical AI. NVIDIA also unveiled new NVIDIA Isaac simulation frameworks and new NVIDIA Cosmos and NVIDIA Isaac GR00T open models for the industry to develop, train and deploy the next generation of intelligent robots. Read More
The EZGO Mini Pallet AMR is designed for quick setup using SLAM-based 3D LiDAR navigation, enabling operation without major site modifications. Under typical conditions, the system can be deployed within approximately 15 minutes, making it suitable for facilities with frequently changing workflows. Read More
FANUC will demonstrate technologies that streamline box handling, scanning, picking, palletizing, depalletizing, and autonomous material movement while improving accuracy, boosting throughput, reducing physical strain, enhancing safety, and helping companies address labor shortages. AI‑enhanced vision and intelligent perception tools help robots identify products, adapt to mixed workloads, and make real-time decisions in dynamic warehouse environments. Read More
Automation is the key to efficiency and competitiveness. At HANNOVER MESSE, the focus is on intelligent systems, sensor technology, and networked control technologies, as well as PLCs, DCS, SCADA systems, motion control, industrial PCs, embedded systems, and electric drives. These technologies ensure quality and enable intelligent, networked processes—across industries and with an eye to the future. Read More
NORD DRIVESYSTEMS has announced their participation in MODEX 2026. From April 13–16 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, NORD will showcase their latest advancements in high-efficiency gear motors, intelligent electronic control products, and modular automation solutions designed to optimize throughput and reduce Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Attendees are invited to visit Booth B14136 to talk with experts and discover how NORD’s decentralized technology is redefining reliability in modern warehousing and distribution centers. Read More
KUKA Robotics will showcase its portfolio of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) designed for seamless automation integration at MODEX 2026, taking place April 13–16 in Atlanta, Georgia, at the Georgia World Congress Center. Attendees can visit KUKA in Building ABC, Level 1, Booth #B15132 to see live demonstrations of advanced AMR solutions, including the debut of the KMP 250P autonomous mobile platform, which simplifies material handling and improves operational efficiency. Read More
Kollmorgen introduced the AKME Series of hazardous location servo motors with ATEX and IECEx global certification for use in locations that require Zone 2 and Zone 22 ratings. Built on the established performance, quality and reliability of the AKM servo motor platform, the AKME series allows machine builders to achieve new standards of compact, versatile performance in environments involving ignitable gases or dusts. Read More
Yaskawa America's new GA501 AC drive includes embedded dual-port Ethernet capability and the ability to connect via EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus TCP/IP, EtherCAT, BACnet/IP, or MECHATROLINK-4. The drive also comes with standard DIN rail mounting for up to 7.5 HP, and spring-tension I/O terminals. With support for all major industrial Ethernet protocols and topologies, the GA501 eliminates the need for additional hardware, reduces installation time, and simplifies system design. Read More
Parker Hannifin announced a significant software release for its PSD servo drive family, focused on “Intelligent Drive.” The release delivers new control modes, advanced synchronization functions and performance optimizations designed to improve throughput, accuracy and system efficiency in demanding industrial applications. Read More
MODEX is where manufacturing and supply chain professionals come together. Organizer MHI calls the event the world’s largest supply chain experience. From hands‑on product demonstrations to one-on-one meetings and a conference with four keynotes and nearly 200 sessions, visitors to MODEX 2026 can see the latest equipment and technology, learn the latest trends, connect with key suppliers and make strategic capital equipment buying decisions. Read More
On paper, a robot is just a set of joints and motors. On a production floor, however, it becomes something entirely different. CNC Solutions in Belgium learned that the hard way years ago, when teach-in methods that worked for simple pick-and-place began to crumble under CNC-class workloads. In milling, sanding, laser or plasma cutting paths, the motion isn’t a few hundred points; it’s millions. Read MoreAutomationMesh sat down with Paul Haikal, Senior Commercial Product Manager at Rockwell Automation, to discuss the latest trends in SCADA, including what manufacturers need to know about the evolving state of manufacturing software in today's age of artificial intelligence and concerns over cybersecurity. Read More 
The International Society of Automation (ISA) has announced the publication of ANSI/ISA-112.00.01-2025, SCADA Systems – Part 1: SCADA Lifecycle, Diagrams and Terminology, which is now available for sale on www.isa.org and is accessible to ISA members as a membership benefit.
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Mantis Robotics announced the certification to ISO 10218 and ISO 13849 of its Mantis MR-1 flagship robot. According to the company, the MR-1 has become the first fenceless, high-speed industrial arm to receive these certifications. By integrating proprietary Physical AI, the MR-1 eliminates the traditional "safety vs. speed" compromise, allowing high-speed throughput in shared human workspaces without the need for physical barriers.
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Stäubli will unveil the next evolution of Sterimove, the company's cleanroom‑ready mobile pharma robot, engineered specifically for aseptic and sterile manufacturing. The new robot includes clean-room compatible materials and a fully sealed architecture, as well as the latest collision avoidance and safety sensors and controls. Read MoreAPEX Expo is a North American electronics industry event aimed at OEMs, EMS providers, PCB manufacturers and industry professionals from around the globe who come together to access the latest technical content, contribute to standards development, and network with capital equipment manufacturers, suppliers, and product innovators in design, printed board manufacturing, electronics assembly, and test. The event offers opportunities for education and networking. Attendees gain access to cutting-edge technologies, advanced materials, and the latest processes, equipping them with the knowledge, technical skills, and best practices. Read More 
Instead of dedicated pick-and-place robots programmed for a single task, a new type of generalized artificial intelligence can allow for a more flexible and robust autonomous robotic implementation that scales across applications. Read More
NORD DRIVESYSTEMS has introduced digital twins for system development. This innovative technology allows engineers to verify early in the planning process whether the drive concept is suitable for the system, even complex systems, significantly reducing the project timeline and achieving greater efficiency and availability. Read More
For decades, Foxboro DCS has served as the "brain" of many industrial operations, enabling real-time control and coordination of complex processes. But today's landscape demands more – greater agility, fewer costly upgrades, and simplified compliance. To answer those needs, Schneider Electric has introduced EcoStruxure Foxboro Software-Defined Automation to deliver flexibility, scalability and cost efficiency without sacrificing reliability.
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Comau robots are being monitored by an automatic system at Iveco's Valladolid plant in Spain. Developed to enhance operational visibility and improve maintenance efficiency, the cloud-based system monitors robots on Iveco's assembly lines. Comau’s system autonomously captures production and process data, identifies performance deviations, signals anomalies, and verifies user-defined KPIs. This statistical and trend-based analysis helps Iveco’s engineering team optimize robot utilization, reduce unplanned downtime, and strengthen overall process reliability.
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Lucid will deploy Rockwell Automation's enterprise software solutions, including its FactoryTalk manufacturing execution system (MES) software, to manage and optimize production operations, including general assembly, paint, stamping, body, and powertrain at the company's expanding Saudi Arabia facility. Read More
Redwood Software released the results of a global survey of 300 manufacturing professionals, revealing a growing automation gap in manufacturing. While most manufacturers have invested heavily in operational technology (OT), engineering technology (ET) and information technology (IT) automation and are eager to adopt AI, the majority remain trapped in mid-stage automation maturity. Many automate tasks or processes in individual systems while critical workflows, data flows and exception handling remain fragmented and manual. Read More
AMKmotion has launched its new DIP series of synchronous servo motors. Delivering up to three times the acceleration of comparable drives, they combine high power density with a compact footprint. The integrated reluctance torque component significantly reduces the use of rare-earth materials. Read More
Tens of thousands of humanoid robots are in the works for deployment at Hyundai Motors, Google DeepMind and other manufacturing facilities, as announced by Boston Dynamics at the 2026 CES show in Las Vegas. Read More
The semiconductor manufacturing industry continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, driven by rapidly increasing precision requirements and growing system complexity. As equipment configurations and control targets diversify, engineers are often required to modify or completely rewrite control software to accommodate new specifications or design changes. Because traditional controllers tightly couple software behavior to hardware, even small adjustments can lead to lengthy redevelopment cycles, slowing innovation and delaying equipment rollout. To overcome these limitations, Yokogawa has introduced a mechanism that enables software development centered on data rather than hardware dependencies. This architecture allows the control software to seamlessly absorb variations in equipment design, functionality, and operating conditions. Read More
GrayMatter Robotics has been awarded a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II contract by AFWERX, the innovation arm of the Department of the Air Force, to develop an autonomous robotic system for the precision sanding of canopies. Read More
Beckhoff's latest embedded PCs offer multi-core CPUs, increased memory and 1Gbit interface to offer more computing power for ultra-compact controls for complex automation tasks. Read More
High-mix food manufacturers run dozens of SKUs daily, each with different ingredients, portion sizes, tray positions, and placement requirements. Traditional depositors cannot accommodate this variety efficiently, requiring long changeover times, while manual assembly in cold rooms imposes physical demands and persistent staffing difficulties. AI-enabled robotic assembly and advanced packaging technology from Chef Robotics and Packline address these challenges. Read More
High rigidity and high guide load capacity combine with powerful drive elements to offer high feed forces and accelerations for shorter cycle times and a long service life in the new ELGD axis family from Festo. A stainless steel cover strip is friction-free on the outside and does not allow any particles to form there, making the ELGD axes suitable for use in cleanrooms and future-oriented industries such as renewable energies, the production of electric vehicles, the manufacture of batteries and the semiconductor industry. Read More
The new ACOPOS M4 from B&R combines is designed for challenges such as predictive maintenance, scalability and machine performance. A new embedded system enables the implementation of predictive maintenance, allowing problems to be detected before they lead to costly errors. In addition, the ACPOPOS M4 provides compatibility with the open-source OPC UA FX protocol for a secure key technology for industrial communication networks, enabling real-time communication in the industrial environment. Read More
The global market value of industrial robot installations has reached an all-time high of $16.7 billion. Future demand will be driven by a number of technological innovations, market forces and new fields of business. The International Federation of Robotics reports on the top 5 trends for the robotics industry for 2026. Read More
Wiliot's Gen3 Pixel advances the capabilities of the company's ambient IoT architecture and the Wiliot Intelligence Platform – the AI engine that converts IoT Pixel data into continuous visibility and automated operational intelligence. Read More
Rockwell Automation's ROKStudios video series features exclusive interviews with customers, partners and other thought leaders on digitalization, sustainability and the evolving role of automation in shaping the future of industrial operations. Read More
Today’s most efficient and effective teams need more robust mobile applications and a user-friendly interface to allow them to do more from anywhere. The redesigned mobile app for DeltaV SaaS SCADA is designed to give operators and technicians the control and clarity they need to be effective in the field, without the need to drag a laptop along with them. Read More
Stäubli Robotics will showcase cutting-edge food-grade robotics solutions designed to optimize various stages of the food production process. IPPE, the largest annual gathering for the poultry, egg, meat, and animal food industries worldwide, is scheduled to take place at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta from January 27-29, 2026. Read More
