Featured Image

AMT Tech Report: Issue #256

The (robot) arms (space) race, Robo-overview, Is a robot with a knife really safe?, Pittsburgh’s robotics plan, Silicon solid state electrostatic drivers.
Apr 21, 2023

Truth may be vital, but without love, it is unbearable.

– Anthony McCarten, "The Two Popes"


1. The (Robot) Arms (Space) Race 

PickNik Robotics and Motiv Space Systems are partnering to take advantage of the new opportunity of in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing. PickNik is developing advanced robotics control software, and Motiv is designing and manufacturing space-rated robotic systems, motor controllers, and mechanisms. Together, they are working to solve the challenges of space manufacturing through the integration of PickNik's MoveIt Studio technology for robot arm control and Motiv's xLink robot arms.  

Read more here.


2. Robo-Overview 

Here’s an overview of CNC robotics and its potential for manufacturing parts. The article explains the basics of CNC machining, the advantages of CNC robotics, and the components and materials that it can manufacture. It also discusses the potential of integrating CNC machines with automation and provides some examples of CNC robot brands and machines. Finally, it discusses the future of CNC robotics and its implications for different sectors. 

Read more here.


3. Is a Cobot With a Knife Really Safe? 

Cobots have become increasingly popular in metal fabs. They look nonthreatening and can replace manual tasks involving small, low-payload situations. However, because cobots are not inherently safe, it’s important to remember that eliminating safeguarding shouldn’t be the goal of cobots; rather, safety should be assessed for each application according to industry-accepted safety standards. 

Read more here.


4. Pittsburgh’s Robotics Plan  

Pittsburgh Acting Secretary of Community and Economic Development Rick Siger wants local robotics companies to manufacture materials they need in Western Pennsylvania rather than outsourcing them. He is also pushing for an aggressive, competitive agenda to attract and retain companies and to help blighted areas with programs such as the Whole-Home Repairs Program, which provides grants to income-qualified homeowners of up to $50,000 for repairs, energy efficiency, weatherization, and other projects.  

Read more here.


5. Silicon Solid State Electrostatic Drivers   

Listen, as you can see, the manufacturing industry news this week has been rather robotics-heavy … So it’s time to get all nerdy about some audiophile tech! You know how semiconductor manufacturing is reshoring? Welp, some of them chip manufacturers could be producing some hi-fi silicon! I’ll save the technicalities because I’m running out of space, but take my word for it – these slick new IEM (earbud) drivers (speakers) are, in fact, a legendary (and prohibitively expensive) type of driver known as electrostatic! 

Read more here.


To get the latest tech developments delivered directly to your inbox, subscribe to the weekly Tech Report here.

To access Tech Trends, log in to or register for an MTInsight account at https://www.mtinsight.org/ 

PicturePicture
Author
Stephen LaMarca
Senior Technology Analyst
Recent technology News
Manufacturers are doers—always building, innovating, and transforming. It’s no surprise that the most-read articles on AMTonline.org this year spotlighted the driving forces of the industry: automation, innovation, and transformation.
With demand for manufactured goods surging after 2020 and high rates of job openings persisting due to a labor shortfall, more manufacturers are turning toward automation – and reversing the post-recessionary trend of declining manufacturing productivity.
With skilled workers in short supply, fewer young people interested in on-site work, boomers retiring, and demand remaining elevated, manufacturers could invest in automation for multiple returns.
The ARM Institute held a panel discussion on the challenges and opportunities for automation in aerospace manufacturing. They tackled efficiency and production; economic, technical, and human challenges; management support; workforce development; and more.
At IMTS 2024, Barbara Humpton and Tim Shinbara highlighted how automation, AI, and digital twins empower manufacturers and drive local production, innovation, and sustainability.
Similar News
undefined
Technology
By Benjamin Moses | Dec 13, 2024

Episode 127: Ben and Steve both have some testbed updates and conclude that having a solid in-house IT team on hand is vital for implementing new OT (operational technology) systems. The tech friends lighten things up by reflecting on their Thanksgiving.

45 min
undefined
Technology
By Stephen LaMarca | Dec 13, 2024

Check and MFG. Micron's coming to Manassas. Start them while they're young. 3D scanning a physical original... Diamonds (batteries) are (almost) forever.

6 min
undefined
Technology
By Benjamin Moses | Nov 14, 2024

The ARM Institute held a panel discussion on the challenges and opportunities for automation in aerospace manufacturing. They tackled efficiency and production; economic, technical, and human challenges; management support; workforce development; and more.

5 min