Amazon Powerhouse

Have feedback or want to contribute a video, article or tacos? Maybe I'm interested, maybe not. If you have something constructive you can catch me on Twitter. @robotsrcoming or email me at tnorris@automationjunkie.com

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🦾 Symbotic: $1B Automation Company No One's Heard Of; 📢 PSA: Power Systems🔌

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 02:09:15 +0000

Automation: Because clicking 'Ctrl+C' and 'Ctrl+V' is just too much work.

Symbotic… Who’s That?

Here’s a conundrum for you to figure out. A man adds $7B, that’s B as in BILLION to his net worth in a single day in the material handling business. His company does just shy of $1B in revenue, has an EBITDA (aka end profit) of $0-$3M, and $23B in order backlog.

This.Doesn’t.Compute.

And it’s a risky bet.

So what’s Symbotic? It’s basically AI powered warehouse robotics and automation. They have a couple of AMRs, palletizers, and other products that they put together to create a highly flexible inventory storage and retrieval system. All the parts of the system are intelligent devices feeding into finely tuned software package.

Why does this latest article erk me? Well, several reasons. Top of mind is that they started 6 deployments (projects that were sold but not yet implemented) and completed commissioning of 1. So over the course of a year that would be approximately 24 systems. Doing some rough math thats $41M dollars per system, or more. Next they say they have $23B in order backlog. Which at their current rate means they are sold out in capacity for the next 20+ years. The cherry on top is the extremely low EBITDA of “maybe” $3M for the year. On a billion dollar year that’s a rounding error where most companies in the $1B+ territory are seing high single digit to double digit percentage EBITDA. So for a $1B company you’d expect $50M+ or so in pure profit.

What this is telling me is that they are doing 1 of four things. Option A…they are ramping up in headcount and their costs are pacing at the same rate of margin growth. Option B…they are selling projects with extremely low margins. Option C…extreme project overruns. Or Option D… a little of all of the above! I’m going with Option D.

As bearish as I am I still want to be bullish. They’re looking at almost doubling in revenue from 2022 and their tech is pretty neat. If this happens then they’d be looking at moving up the Modern Materials Handling list of Top 20 from 18 to about 10/11.

So what’s their next move? Depends on who you ask. The early investors have all made their fortunes. Now it’s time to let the market determine the future of the company. Word on the street is that Symbotic is kinda like Fight Club, once a customer or an employee everything is top secret.

Top 20 materials handling systems suppliers 2023

Our list got a shakeup this year with new entrants involved with warehouse robotics and high-density storage. The bottom-line revenue tally, based on 2022 revenue figures, is a bit down from our previous Top 20, which came off a high growth year for most suppliers.

www.mmh.com/article/top_20_warehouse_automation_and_automated_materials_handling_systems_suppliers_2023

Billionaire Behind Walmart’s Warehouse Robots Gains More Than $7 Billion In A Day

Rick Cohen’s fortune jumped as his warehouse automation firm Symbotic announced record sales and a $23 billion backlog of orders on Monday.

www.forbes.com/sites/amyfeldman/2023/07/31/billionaire-behind-walmarts-warehouse-robots-gains-more-than-7-billion-in-a-day/?sh=53bd2def231f

Symbotic Press Release

ir.symbotic.com/news-releases/news-release-details/symbotic-reports-third-quarter-fiscal-year-2023-results

Poor Boston Dynamics Spot was on Fiverr and got this gig..

Tech of the Day: Need More Power, Say You?

In the rapidly evolving landscape of automation, robots have become indispensable tools across various industries. These machines are designed to perform tasks autonomously, augmenting human capabilities, and streamlining operations. A crucial component that enables the seamless functioning of an automated robot is the power system. The power system serves as the lifeblood of the robot, providing the energy necessary to drive motors, sensors, actuators, and other critical components. In this article, we will explore the significance of the power system in automated robots, its key elements, and the advancements that have transformed the capabilities of modern robotic systems.

Automated robots are typically equipped with multiple components, such as sensors, microprocessors, motors, and communication modules. All these components require a reliable and efficient source of power to function optimally. The power system ensures that the robot has a continuous supply of electricity, enabling it to execute tasks effectively and with precision.

The power system of an automated robot must be carefully engineered to provide the right voltage and current levels required by each component. It must also be designed to optimize energy consumption and ensure the robot's endurance during extended operation periods.

Power Source: The power source is the origin of electrical energy for the robot. Commonly used power sources include rechargeable batteries, fuel cells, and solar panels. The choice of power source depends on the robot's application, mobility requirements, and operational environment.

Battery Management System (BMS): In the case of battery-powered robots, a BMS is a critical component. It monitors the battery's state of charge, temperature, and voltage, ensuring safe and efficient operation. The BMS protects the batteries from overcharging, undercharging, and overheating, thus extending their lifespan.

Power Distribution: The power distribution system regulates and directs the flow of electricity to different components within the robot. This system ensures that each component receives the appropriate voltage and current required for its operation.

Power Conversion: Robots often require different voltage levels for different components. Power converters are employed to transform the energy from the power source to the desired voltage levels, catering to the specific needs of the various components.

Energy Storage and Regeneration: Some advanced robotic systems are designed with regenerative capabilities, where energy generated during deceleration or braking is stored and reused. This feature enhances the robot's overall energy efficiency and reduces the strain on the power system.

Redundancy and Fail-Safes: In safety-critical applications, redundant power systems and fail-safe mechanisms are implemented to ensure continuous operation even in the event of a power system failure. These redundant setups offer reliability and prevent catastrophic consequences in critical environments.

The evolution of power system technology has significantly impacted the capabilities of automated robots:

High-Energy-Density Batteries: Advancements in battery technology have led to the development of high-energy-density batteries, such as lithium-ion batteries. These batteries provide greater energy storage capacity, enabling robots to operate for longer durations before recharging is required.

Wireless Charging: Wireless charging technology has been integrated into some robotic systems, eliminating the need for physical connectors and simplifying the charging process. This enables robots to recharge automatically when not in use, optimizing their uptime.

Energy Harvesting: Energy harvesting techniques, such as using solar panels or piezoelectric materials, have been explored to power low-energy-consuming robotic components. These methods harness ambient energy to supplement the power system, increasing the robot's autonomy.

Intelligent Power Management: Advanced algorithms for power management have been developed to optimize energy consumption in robots. These algorithms intelligently allocate power to different components based on their priority and task requirements, further extending the robot's operation time.

Hybrid Power Systems: Some robots employ hybrid power systems that combine multiple power sources, such as batteries and fuel cells. This approach provides a balance between continuous operation and rapid refueling, making robots suitable for extended missions.

The power system is an integral component of automated robots, providing the energy required to drive their functionality and enabling them to perform tasks autonomously. From power sources like batteries and fuel cells to power distribution, conversion, and management systems, each element plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the robot. Advancements in power system technology, such as high-energy-density batteries, wireless charging, energy harvesting, and intelligent power management, have contributed to enhancing the capabilities and autonomy of modern robotic systems. As automation continues to shape industries, the power system remains at the forefront of enabling robots to revolutionize the way we work and live.

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Robots + AI = Smart Robots = RT-2, Automation Control Systems for Everyone!

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 02:52:28 +0000

Robot, Robot, beep and bleep,

In our hearts, you've got a keep,

Your metallic touch, we adore,

You're our robot, evermore!

Robots Are Coming To Life

Have you ever wanted a robot that could learn on the fly? That could think and reason it’s way to completing tasks? Well the guys at Google (pronounced goo-gal) have been working on your new real lift assistant. Ladies and gentlemen, brace yourselves for a dose of tech wizardry - behold, Google's RT-2 Robot! It's the future of robotics, and it's about to blow your mind with its astounding capabilities!

So, here's the nitty-gritty. RT-2 is a humanoid robot, standing at an impressive 5.5 feet tall, armed with state-of-the-art technology that's way beyond your average office printer. This bad boy is packing a sensory arsenal that includes LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors, cameras, depth sensors, and infrared sensors - it's like having Iron Man's suit for eyes!

Now, let's talk about its brain - the AI powerhouse. RT-2's got some serious artificial intelligence muscle! It processes all that sensory input like a champ, analyzing the environment in real-time. Thanks to machine learning, this robot continually fine-tunes its decision-making, learning from its experiences, just like how we try to learn from our past mistakes. It's like having a tech-savvy Einstein on wheels!

But wait, there's more! RT-2's motor skills are mind-blowing. With its sophisticated robotic arm and leg system, it can perform delicate tasks with surgical precision - like a ninja with a Swiss Army knife! From complex assembly line maneuvers to navigating tricky terrains, this robot moves with agility and grace, making human acrobats jealous.

Now, let's get to the language skills - and no, I'm not talking about speaking Klingon. RT-2's equipped with natural language processing capabilities, which means it can understand and respond to human commands. It's like having an AI personal assistant that follows your every word, minus the awkward misunderstandings (thank goodness!).

Applications, you ask? Oh, the possibilities are endless! In manufacturing, RT-2 revolutionizes production lines by performing repetitive tasks with astounding efficiency and precision. It's like having a workforce of skilled artisans on turbocharge, pumping out products faster than you can say "GigaWatt!"

In healthcare, RT-2 becomes your trusty companion, assisting medical professionals in various tasks. From delivering medications with pinpoint accuracy to supporting patients with rehabilitation exercises, this robot's got your back - or rather, your frontal cortex!

But hold on, there's more - disaster response! RT-2 ventures where humans fear to tread. Its dexterity and ability to navigate hazardous areas mean it can assist first responders in search and rescue missions. It's like having a brave little robot scout, paving the way for human heroes!

Retail and customer service? Oh, you bet! RT-2 brings a whole new level of interaction. From guiding customers through stores like a savvy GPS to providing real-time product information, this robot is the ultimate shopping companion!

In education, RT-2 earns top marks as an engaging tutor. Imagine personalized lessons, interactive learning experiences, and data-driven feedback, all delivered with the charm of a tech-savvy wizard.

Hospitality? RT-2 is the front desk extraordinaire! Welcoming guests with a linguistic finesse and efficiently assisting with their needs, this robot elevates the guest experience to a whole new level of wow!

Google's RT-2 Robot is a technical marvel that brings automation and AI to new heights. From manufacturing floors to healthcare settings and beyond, this robot's versatile applications make it an indispensable asset in revolutionizing industries and our daily lives. Prepare for a future where robots like RT-2 are not just fiction but a reality that will reshape the way we work and interact with technology.

Google’s RT-2 AI model brings us one step closer to WALL-E

"First-of-its-kind" robot AI model can recognize trash and perform complex actions.

arstechnica.com/information-technology/2023/07/googles-rt-2-ai-model-brings-us-one-step-closer-to-wall-e

“How many sci-fi movies do you have to see before you see where this is going” -Bill Burr

Tech of the Day: Automation Control Systems

Imagine you're the conductor of a symphony, and the musicians are machines and processes in your industrial kingdom. Automation Control Systems are like the invisible maestro, orchestrating everything flawlessly without missing a beat. They are a combination of hardware and software, working hand in hand to bring order and efficiency to various industrial processes.

How do Automation Control Systems Work?

Think of it as a dynamic duo - the hardware and software join forces to create the magic.

Hardware Components: The hardware components act like the muscles, sensors, and actuators of the system. They interact with the physical aspects of the industrial process, monitoring and controlling various parameters to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Smart Software: Now, let's talk about the brains behind the operation. The software acts as the mastermind, making decisions, coordinating tasks, and optimizing the entire process. It's like having a genius mathematician on board, but with a sense of humor!

Communication Networks: To keep everyone on the same page, communication networks play a crucial role. They ensure seamless data exchange between different components of the system, making it feel like a well-organized team working together.

Applications of Automation Control Systems:

Manufacturing Excellence: In the manufacturing world, Automation Control Systems are like the wizards of productivity. They manage assembly lines, control robots with precision, and maintain quality assurance, optimizing efficiency like a well-oiled machine.

Power Plant Management: Automation Control Systems handle power plants with finesse, ensuring smooth operations, optimizing energy consumption, and enhancing safety like a skilled conductor leading an orchestra.

Smart Traffic Control: Ever wondered how traffic lights seem to work in perfect harmony? Automation Control Systems make it happen. They regulate traffic flow, minimizing congestion, and keeping us moving like a traffic dance maestro.

HVAC Efficiency: In buildings, Automation Control Systems act like temperature wizards, managing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning to create a comfortable environment while optimizing energy usage.

Water Resource Management: These systems play a vital role in water management, from treatment to distribution and waste management. They ensure the responsible use of water resources, just like a mindful caretaker.

Smart Homes: Imagine your home becoming a well-coordinated performance with Automation Control Systems at the helm. They manage lighting, security, and various appliances to create a comfortable and energy-efficient living space.

Automation Control Systems are the unsung heroes of modern industry, bringing efficiency and precision like a skilled conductor leading an orchestra. From manufacturing plants to power stations, traffic lights to HVAC systems, these systems silently work behind the scenes, ensuring seamless operation and optimal resource usage. So, next time you see a well-managed industrial process or a smart home, remember the magic happens, thanks to the technical brilliance of Automation Control Systems.

/https://www.nextgenai.ca/

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🥗 Nextgen Food Robotics is Coming in Hot? I'm So RESISTORable⚡️

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Secretly imprinting AI code into your brain!

Nextgen Food Robotics is Coming in Hot!

Or NOT! People don’t believe everything you read on the internet. Today I was doing my research, trying to come up with some super insightful information and checked out Google Trends. If you don’t know what that is, it’s where you can see which keywords are trending on Google. So I took a peak for inspiration and saw Nextgen Food Robotics on the list. I thought great, then rubbed my hands together in evil fashion and laughed a maniacal laugh. Actually I didn’t do any of that but seemed fitting to say I did. Anyways.. Nextgen Food Robotics, I will now refer to them as NFR. Which as I type this makes me thing “Not Freakin Real”.

Ok so here’s the lowdown. Great idea but looks like a one man band.

Checking them out online they have a sweet @ss website, claim to have an AI chat app, and boast the ability to order food on the app, have the robots pick the ingredients, and a kitchen full of robots to cook up your meals. That’s a super slick idea. Definitely one worth exploring and realizing. I mean who doesn’t want to have a meal made with fresh ingredients, locally grown? I guess maybe not me. I used to have to collect eggs from chickens and then we’d eat them. I was always a bit sad about that. Hmm. I should unpack that sometime but for now let’s roll with idea of food order, picked, prepped, and possibly delivered without human intervention. From increased efficiency and reduced costs to improved food safety and sustainability, the integration of automation in the food industry brings forth a plethora of advantages that positively impact individuals and communities alike.

Automating the food process streamlines operations and eliminates manual inefficiencies, resulting in a significantly faster and more efficient service. With automated ordering systems, customers can place their orders seamlessly, reducing waiting times and allowing for quicker turnaround. Automated picking and preparation further expedite the process, enabling restaurants and food establishments to serve more customers and meet demands during peak hours efficiently.

Automated processes can lead to cost savings for businesses, which can then be passed on to consumers in the form of lower prices. By reducing the need for manual labor and optimizing resource utilization, businesses can operate more economically. This affordability can benefit individuals and families, making quality food options more accessible to a broader segment of society.

Automated systems can adhere to strict food safety protocols consistently, minimizing the risk of contamination and ensuring a higher standard of hygiene. From food storage and handling to precise cooking temperatures, automation reduces human errors, creating safer and healthier food products for consumers. Moreover, consistent quality control in food preparation leads to a more enjoyable dining experience, fostering customer loyalty and trust in the food establishments.

Automation can be integrated with data analytics and AI algorithms to provide personalized food recommendations based on individual preferences and dietary requirements. This level of customization caters to diverse dietary needs, including allergens, intolerances, and cultural preferences, ensuring that every customer can enjoy a tailored and satisfying meal.

Incorporating automation in food preparation and delivery can address issues of food access for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, disabled, or those living in food deserts. Automated delivery systems can reach remote or underserved areas, ensuring that nutritious meals are available to everyone, regardless of their location or physical limitations.

Automated processes can contribute to a more sustainable food system by optimizing ingredient usage and reducing food waste. Precise portion control and inventory management minimize excess food production, while AI-driven supply chain analytics help predict demand and reduce overstocking. Furthermore, the integration of autonomous delivery systems can lead to reduced carbon emissions and fuel consumption, contributing to a greener and more environmentally conscious food industry.

But let’s pull the layer back just a little bit on this operation…Nextgen Food Robotics looks like a spinoff of Original Holy Cow, or at least they have the same address. It appears to be operated by a single individual as a co-packing space and commissary kitchen. Sneaky Canadians are at it again!

Home | NextgenAI

Nextgen has built a breakthrough proprietary artificial Intelligence chat platform not seen in the market today codenamed the “Lily”‍Lily is the artificial intelligence chat platform designed to offer consumers a new way to order food and for manufacturers to predict what its consumers are in the market for. ‍In addition to its own AI technology. Nextgen utilizes AI automated food robots and manufacturing lines in its newly built 20,000 sq foot facility which houses state of the art automated food lines and ghost kitchen machines. AI automated lines and robots will have a significant impact in the food industry, and this impact is only expected to continue and grow in the coming years.

www.nextgenai.ca

I’ve always wondered if I could ride the robots in a factory..looks like you can!

Tech of the Day: I'm So RESISTORable

Once upon a time, in the quirky realm of electronics, there lived a jolly band of components known as "The Electric Comedians." Among them, the star of dry humor and deadpan jokes was none other than the resistor, a small but oh-so-valuable element in the grand circuit of laughter and engineering wonders.

Part I: Unraveling the Mysterious Resistor

Now, dear readers, gather around as we lift the veil on the enigmatic world of resistors. At first glance, resistors may appear to be simple little blocks, almost like the unsung heroes of the electronics world. But beneath their unassuming exteriors lies a core purpose that sparks joy and keeps things in check.

In the grandest jest of them all, resistors have one primary job: to resist the flow of electric current. Think of them as the gatekeepers of electron highways, creating roadblocks for those rambunctious electrons trying to speed through the circuit at breakneck speeds. "Halt! Thou shall not pass unchecked current!" they declare, channeling their inner Gandalf.

Part II: The Stand-Up Act - How Resistors Work

Resistors, like seasoned comedians, are masters of self-control. They possess a specific resistance value, measured in ohms, that determines how much they hinder the current's wild party. "Hey, ohms up! Don't let the current run wild!" they quip to one another during their performances.

But don't be fooled by their calm demeanor. Behind the scenes, they engage in an electrifying dance, exchanging repartees with Ohm's Law. Ohm, a legendary physicist, postulated that the voltage across a resistor is directly proportional to the current flowing through it. As if delivering punchlines, the resistors proudly declare, "V equals I times R!" Their witty take on Ohm's Law keeps engineers chuckling and nodding in agreement.

Part III: When to Unleash the Resistor's Charm

Ah, my dear friends, when do you summon the uproarious talents of the resistors? Fear not, for we shall unveil their prime moments of brilliance. Whenever you need to control the flow of current, you call upon these electronic comedians to save the day.

LED Drama Management: Picture this: a vibrant LED, ready to unleash its dazzling light show. But wait! The LED's enthusiasm must be tempered, lest it succumbs to its own brightness. Enter the resistor, dimming the LED's spotlight and saving it from an untimely burnout. "Gentlemen, we shall LED the way with the perfect resistor!" they announce, cueing laughter from the audience.

Current Limiting Comedy: Oh, the mayhem of a short circuit! Without the resistors to keep the current in check, electronic devices would be in a perpetual state of pandemonium. "Ladies and gentlemen, witness the brilliance of our current-limiting prowess!" the resistors declare, much to the engineers' delight.

Voltage Division Funnies: In the kingdom of voltage dividers, the resistors reign supreme. Whenever you need to split the voltage between components, resistors cleverly step in to do the division dance. "Divide and conquer, that's our motto!" they chime in unison.

Conclusion: Resisting the Urge to Stop Laughing

And so, dear readers, we bid adieu to our esteemed performers, the resistors. Behind their straight faces and color-coded exteriors lies a world of wit and wisdom, protecting our circuits and electrifying our engineering endeavors.

So, the next time you encounter a resistor on your electronic journey, remember the Electric Comedians and the vital role they play. They may seem stoic, but deep down, they are laughing along with you, adding a spark of humor to the fascinating world of electronics.

In the words of the Electric Comedians: "Ohm my circuit, that was shocking! But hey, if you can't stand the resistance, get out of the circuit!" And with that, they bid you farewell, leaving a trail of laughter and enlightening circuits in their wake.

Stupid is as Stupid does

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🍼 Are You Digital Twinning Yet? How Power Supplies Work!😱

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 16:00:00 +0000

The only place where 'Ctrl + Z' can't undo your awkward moments.

Are You Digital Twinning Yet?

In the ever-evolving world of technology, a groundbreaking concept has emerged - the digital twin. So groundbreaking that even people in the space have no clue what it means! This innovative technology is rapidly gaining traction across industries, transforming how products are designed, manufactured, and operated. I’ll cut to the chase. Digital twins are nothing more than a virtual representation of a physical object, process, or system, capturing real-time data and enabling simulations for analysis, optimization, and decision-making. People are saying this is revolutionary. I say wtf are you talking about? Seriously people..a digital twin of a part is a CAD model, the digital twin of a circuit board is a schematic, the digital twin of a process is a value stream map in Visio. This is far from ground breaking. I feel like some marketing genius (and I mean this in a complimentary way) decided they need to sexy up their software product.

The birthing of digital twins was pretty uneventful. The concept of digital twins has its roots in the black hole of space exploration. NASA pioneered this technology in the 1960s to simulate and monitor space missions, ensuring the success and safety of astronauts. Over the years, advancements in sensors, data analytics, and simulation capabilities have propelled digital twins into new horizons. That’s right, this new spangled shiny idea of digital twins has been around for over 60 years!

Today, digital twins have become a cornerstone of Industry 4.0 - the fourth industrial revolution. They are the backbone of smart manufacturing, where real-world data from physical assets is used to create virtual replicas. These digital counterparts enable manufacturers to optimize production processes, predict maintenance needs, and improve product quality.

Depending on the type of twinning you’re referring to, at the heart of a digital twin lies its connection to its physical counterpart through sensors and IoT devices. These sensors continuously collect data on various parameters such as temperature, pressure, vibration, and more. The data is then transmitted to the virtual twin in real-time, creating a dynamic and interactive relationship between the physical and virtual worlds.
Think of it like this. You have a picture of a motor on your laptop screen and you have a real motor sitting in your garage. Imagine that you could plug into the wiring harness of that motor with your laptop. Still with me? Ok so now you start the motor in the garage and on your laptop you can sit and watch the rpms go up and down, you can see the temperature of the motor, etc. Those are twins. One physical, one virtual.

Simulation and analytics engines play a crucial role in digital twins, analyzing the incoming data and providing insights into the physical system's performance. Engineers and operators can use this valuable information to make informed decisions, detect anomalies, and optimize operations.

The versatility of digital twins knows no bounds (as in the final frontier), as they find applications in a wide range of industries. In aerospace, digital twins are used to monitor the health of aircraft engines, predicting potential failures and reducing downtime. Similarly, in the automotive industry, digital twins enable real-time monitoring of vehicle performance and diagnostics, improving reliability and safety.

In the healthcare sector, digital twins play a critical role in personalized medicine. By creating virtual replicas of patients, doctors can simulate treatment options and predict patient responses, tailoring treatments for better outcomes.

As cities grow and become more complex, the need for efficient management and planning is paramount. Enter the urban digital twin, a virtual representation of an entire city. By integrating data from various sources, including traffic, energy consumption, and weather patterns, urban planners can optimize resource allocation, predict congestion, and design sustainable infrastructure.

The adoption, or as I would prefer to say, fostering of digital twins brings a plethora of advantages to industries. By optimizing operations and predicting maintenance needs, businesses can reduce downtime and minimize costly repairs. Additionally, digital twins enable manufacturers to test and innovate without disrupting physical processes, resulting in accelerated product development and faster time-to-market.

In the realm of asset management(aka keeping your machines running), digital twins extend the lifespan of physical assets, as proactive maintenance prevents premature wear and tear. Furthermore, the ability to simulate and test different scenarios in a risk-free virtual environment opens doors for continuous improvement and innovation.

As technology continues to advance, the potential of digital twins expands even further. With the dawn of 5G connectivity and edge computing, the real-time capabilities of digital twins will reach new heights. This will enable faster data transmission, ultra-low latency, and seamless integration with IoT devices, empowering industries with unparalleled connectivity and control. Now it may be a while before your office wifi will work as it should to stream your Zoom calls but damn it our digital twins will be flawlessly communicating!

Moreover, advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning will enhance the capabilities of digital twins, enabling more accurate predictions and proactive decision-making. Digital twins will become increasingly autonomous, driving efficiency and optimization in ways we could not have imagined before.

The idea of digital twins has emerged as a transformative technology with vast applications across industries. By bridging the gap between the physical and virtual worlds, they empower businesses to optimize processes, innovate, and make informed decisions. From smart manufacturing to healthcare and smart cities, digital twins are revolutionizing the way we interact with our physical environment.

As technology continues to advance, the future of digital twins holds even greater promise. With 5G connectivity, edge computing, and AI-driven insights, digital twins will become more interconnected and autonomous, driving efficiency and innovation to unprecedented levels. The journey has just begun, and the potential of digital twins to reshape industries and propel us into a connected and efficient future is truly exciting.

As no one ever said, twinning is winning. For a good time I recommend that you go check out this consortium on my behalf! I bet it’ll be great people watching!

Digital Twin Consortium Publishes Identifying and Aligning the Stakeholders User Guide

Shows how stakeholders can decarbonize and improve building performanceBOSTON, MA, July 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Digital Twin Consortium® (DTC) published the Identifying and Aligning the Stakeholders user guide, which is the next in a series of five designed to assist an owner or occupier with new or existing digital twin-based building decarbonization implementations. This guide specifically addresses the role of stakeholders, answering the question: Who are the stakeholders, and how

finance.yahoo.com/news/digital-twin-consortium-publishes-identifying-130000599.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAHcxzyCUSRrTWDH2v2FBzxNy-veGarnpELrhh21crgGy57P2CTNb2ZeJZL9u34D0rZIdN_A07c5UzX2Gsw-XL_Kmn0ZgZGuOnj9-7vXDwzYLUt-aFxw0gli4rSFWGZgJQicoAN4th8y2CeJFRZLWYjdFPyeMgj7U7ZdgfL_gr54_

No one was worried about dangerous robots when this came out!

Tech of the Day: May the Power Supply Be With You

In the world of electronics, power supplies play a crucial role in ensuring devices receive a stable and reliable source of power. Whether you're charging your smartphone, running a computer, or operating sophisticated industrial machinery, a power supply is at the heart of it all. In this uncomprehensive guide, I will demystify power supplies, explore their inner workings, and equip you with the knowledge, dare I say the power, to determine the right size and type for your specific needs.

A power supply is an electrical device that converts one form of electrical energy into another to provide a consistent voltage and current output. It takes input power from the mains or a DC source and transforms it into the appropriate form for various electronic devices.

Power supplies come in two primary types: AC (Alternating Current) and DC (Direct Current). AC power supplies take the alternating voltage from the electrical grid and convert it into a stable DC output suitable for electronic devices. DC power supplies, on the other hand, deliver a constant voltage and current to power devices that require direct current.

The primary components of a power supply include a transformer, rectifier, filter, voltage regulator, and output stage. Let's take a closer look at how these components work together:

Transformer: The transformer steps down the input voltage from the mains to a lower voltage suitable for the rectifier stage. In the case of DC power supplies, the transformer converts the AC input to the required DC voltage.

Rectifier: The rectifier converts the alternating current into a pulsating direct current by allowing current flow in one direction only. It typically uses diodes or other semiconductor devices for this purpose.

Filter: The filter stage smooths out the pulsating DC from the rectifier, producing a more stable output voltage. Capacitors are commonly used in this stage to reduce voltage ripples.

Voltage Regulator: The voltage regulator maintains a constant output voltage by adjusting the flow of current in the circuit. It ensures that the output voltage remains steady, even with varying input voltages and load conditions.

Output Stage: The output stage connects the regulated voltage to the device being powered, delivering the required current and voltage for proper operation.

Selecting the appropriate power supply is crucial to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of your electronic devices. Here are the key factors to consider when determining the right size and type of power supply:

Voltage: The first and most critical consideration is the required output voltage of the power supply. Different devices have specific voltage requirements, and supplying the correct voltage is essential for proper functioning.

Current Capacity: The current capacity, measured in amperes (A), determines the maximum amount of current the power supply can deliver. It is vital to choose a power supply with a current rating higher than the device's peak current demand to avoid overloading.

Efficiency: Power supply efficiency refers to how well it converts input power into the desired output power. Higher efficiency means less wasted energy and reduced heat generation.

Load Regulation: Load regulation is the power supply's ability to maintain a steady output voltage under varying load conditions. Look for power supplies with low load regulation to ensure consistent performance.

Form Factor: Consider the physical size and form factor of the power supply, especially if you have space constraints in your application.

Power supplies come in various types, each designed to meet specific requirements:

Linear Power Supplies: Linear power supplies regulate output voltage by dissipating excess energy as heat. They are relatively simple and inexpensive but less efficient compared to other types.

Switching Power Supplies: Switching power supplies use high-frequency switching circuits to regulate output voltage, making them more efficient and compact. They are widely used in modern electronics due to their high efficiency and lightweight design.

Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): UPS systems provide backup power in case of main power failure. They ensure uninterrupted operation and protect critical devices from power outages.

Programmable Power Supplies: Programmable power supplies offer the flexibility to adjust the output voltage and current settings through digital interfaces, making them ideal for testing and research applications.

Power supplies are the unsung heroes that keep our electronic devices humming with life. They basically keep all our modern conveniences, well convenient. Understanding the basics of power supplies, their inner workings, and the factors to consider when selecting the right size and type will empower you to make informed decisions. I totally recommend that you bestow your knowledge on others. Especially significant others! They would love to learn about power supplies!

From linear to switching power supplies and UPS systems, each type offers unique advantages and applications. Whether you're powering a small electronic gadget or an industrial-grade machine, a reliable power supply is essential to ensure smooth and efficient operation.

So, the next time you plug in your device or power up a complex system, take a moment to appreciate the power supply silently working behind the scenes to keep your world running smoothly and seamlessly. Maybe even keep power supplies in your prayers!

TRUTH HOMIES

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🤓 The UN Plays with Creepy Robot Dolls, Immersive Tech is Coming!😱

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Adding Some Relief to an Industry Dominated by Vintage Pinstripe Minds!

UN Plays With Robot Dolls

I’m shaking my head…. This picture right here, yeah the one below, is how AI and robots were presented at some UN summit in Switzerland. Like wtf is this hot mess of a presentation. I think a group of kindergarteners could have done better, at least making sure all the random extension cords and wiring was neat.

This summit was supposed to showcase the capabilities and limitations of robotics.

No wonder people are afraid of this new tech. We put human faces on machines and dress them up. What the heck is the point of that? I don’t see a world where a bunch of humanoid robots are running around dressed up with silicone masks on. There’s just no point for all that nonsense, unless you buy one of those “special” adults only robots. 🤭

In the future, robots and AI will revolutionize various industries, challenging traditional perceptions of their appearance. Not confined to humanoid forms, robots will be designed for optimal functionality, not aesthetics. These mechanical marvels will undertake tasks ranging from manufacturing and logistics to healthcare and exploration, tailored to meet specific needs efficiently. With advanced AI capabilities, they will adapt, learn, and collaborate seamlessly with humans, enhancing productivity and precision. Embracing their non-humanlike appearances, these robots will unlock limitless potential, tackling complex challenges with their specialized skills and intelligence. The future promises a world where robots redefine the workforce, complement human abilities, and pave the way for groundbreaking technological advancements.

The Uncanny Valley is a concept in robotics and AI design where a humanoid robot or computer-generated character that closely resembles a human but falls short of being completely lifelike can evoke feelings of discomfort, unease, or even fear in humans. As a result, people tend to feel more comfortable with robots or characters that either clearly look human or have a more abstract, non-human appearance, avoiding the middle ground that triggers the Uncanny Valley effect. The robots at this UN summit look like they were pulled out of a morgue so no wonder it creeps me out.

The presentation of robotics to the general population holds paramount significance in shaping public perception and fostering acceptance of this transformative technology. A compelling presentation can demystify robotics, dispel fears, and showcase the tangible benefits it offers to society. It paves the way for informed discussions on ethical considerations, privacy, and job implications, encouraging public engagement in policy decisions. Moreover, an engaging presentation can inspire the younger generation to pursue careers in STEM fields, driving innovation and progress. By presenting robotics in a relatable, approachable manner, we empower individuals to embrace its potential and actively participate in shaping a future where humans and robots collaborate harmoniously for a better world. So, presentation is almost everything when it comes to the unknowing general public. Here we have a half assed attempt at presenting robots. If we want the world to embrace robotics and AI we need to present it in the right way. Make it easy to identify, simple to use, and reliable. Also, very important…make sure it has a easy to find on/off switch!

You could grind up feces and feed it to people and they’ll think it’s great, if you do it right. IF you haven’t heard about that…(https://www.science.org/content/article/pill-derived-human-feces-treats-recurrent-gut-infections).

Robots may soon be able to play tennis. I say bring it on! I’ve been smoking Yoshi on Mario Tennis!

Tech of the Day: Immersive Technologies

Welcome to the realm of immersive technologies in the industrial and warehousing industries! Buckle up, folks, because we're about to dive into a tech-infused wonderland where Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) are turning everyday tasks into laugh-out-loud adventures. Let’s explore how these immersive gadgets are transforming the way we work, bringing hilarity, and efficiency together like never before!

Virtual Reality: A Wild Rollercoaster of Training!

Picture this: you're wearing a VR headset, frantically waving your arms around as you attempt to operate heavy machinery in a virtual world. It's like a rollercoaster ride, but instead of screaming, you're learning! VR training takes you on a wild journey of skill-building without the real-world risks. Forget traditional training - this is a virtual boot camp that's equal parts hilarious and educational. And don't worry, nobody's judging those clumsy moves; we're all just here for the laughs!

Augmented Reality: When Work Becomes a Magic Show!

Abracadabra! With AR-powered smart glasses, you'll feel like a wizard pulling real-time data and instructions out of thin air. Imagine walking through a warehouse, and boom! Your glasses reveal the location of that elusive item you've been searching for. It's like magic! AR turns ordinary work into a grand illusion, and you'll be the star of the show. Your colleagues will be amazed, and you'll be living your dream of being a mystical data sorcerer - just without the pointy hat.

Mixed Reality: The Ultimate Office Prank!

Move over pranks, Mixed Reality is taking office shenanigans to a whole new level! Picture this: you're collaborating with colleagues on a project, but instead of just sharing ideas, you're virtually high-fiving holographic unicorns. Who knew work could be this fun? MR blurs the line between reality and playfulness, turning boring meetings into an opportunity to unleash your inner comedian. Just don't let your boss catch you petting imaginary unicorns; they might not get the joke!

Robot Stand-Up Comedy: Laughter by the Assembly Line!

Here's a secret: robots can tell jokes too! With immersive interfaces, human-robot interactions have never been funnier. Picture a robot cracking jokes while it's helping you with your tasks - talk about multitasking! It's like having a stand-up comedian at the assembly line. The best part? No hecklers - only seamless cooperation and endless laughter. So, who needs human coworkers when you can have your very own robot comedy club?

Warehouse Whimsy with Digital Twins!

In the world of digital twins, warehouses become a whimsical wonderland! These virtual replicas take the phrase "work smarter, not harder" to a whole new level. Imagine predicting future inventory needs with the help of digital twins, where you'll feel like a fortune teller gazing into the crystal ball of efficiency. It's like having a personal oracle, minus the long robes and mysterious chants. Warehouse optimization has never been this hilariously futuristic!

From VR training rollercoasters to AR magic shows, and Mixed Reality office pranks, these tech wonders are adding humor and laughter to our daily tasks. And let's not forget our robotic stand-up comedians and digital twin fortune tellers, making work an adventure. So, get ready to embrace the giggles and guffaws, because with immersive technologies, the future of industrial and warehousing fun is upon us!

W..T..F..

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🚀 The AI Party: Started Before You Even Knew It, USB-C Is AMAZING!😱

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Your Daily Dose of Robo-Fun and Automation Shenanigans!

The AI Party: Started Before You Even Knew It

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the most electrifying and mind-boggling AI party in town, where robotics and automation nerds rule the dance floor and cutting-edge technology takes center stage. Prepare to be blown away as we embark on a wild ride through the evolution of AI, its seamless integration into our lives, and the thrilling innovations that are about to rock our geeky world. So, tighten those pocket protectors, rev up your robot companions, and let's geek out together at the AI bash of a lifetime!

The Geeky Beginnings of AI

Imagine a room filled with scientists sporting taped-up glasses and lab coats, huddled over ancient room-sized computers that could barely outsmart a calculator. Welcome to the birth of AI – the epic geekdom that laid the groundwork for what would become the tech party of the century.

Meet the trailblazers of AI - the brilliant minds who set the wheels in motion for this cosmic geek fest. From Alan Turing's mind-boggling theoretical musings to John McCarthy's AI summer workshop that had nerds buzzing like hyperactive electrons, these pioneers kick-started a party that would make any sci-fi fan squeal with delight.

A Bumpy Ride: The AI Rollercoaster

If you thought coding was all about sipping lattes and typing away on shiny keyboards, think again! The AI journey was no joyride; it was more like a rollercoaster from geek hell. Funding droughts, skeptics spewing their negativity like broken printers, and let's not forget the infamous AI winter that chilled the AI fervor. But just like the unwavering persistence of an infinite loop, AI enthusiasts refused to give up on their nerdy dreams.

AI Sneaks into Our Lives: The Stealthy Party Crasher

Did you notice? AI has been crashing our lives like a silent party ninja, leaving behind its nerdy mark in the most unexpected places.

Virtual Assistants: The Cool Companions

Move aside R2-D2, our virtual assistants are the new hip companions in town! From Siri to Alexa, these AI sidekicks have taken over our phones and homes, cracking jokes and answering our life's burning questions. They're like the tech-savvy friends we never knew we needed!

Netflix and Chill: Brought to You by AI

Who needs human friends when you have AI algorithms recommending shows that know you better than your mom? Thanks to AI's recommendation wizardry, we've become couch potatoes with a PhD in binge-watching.

Smart Homes, Smarter Parties

Imagine living in a home that knows you better than your cat knows the best spot to scratch. AI-powered smart homes adjust the temperature, lighting, and even your mood playlist – all tailored to your geeky desires. It's like a science fiction utopia, minus the robot overlords… for now.

The AI Afterparty: What's Next in the World of Robotics and Automation?

As the AI bash rages on, the party planners have some jaw-dropping surprises in store. Get ready for the ultimate afterparty, where technology will push the boundaries and nerds will unleash their wildest imaginations.

Augmented Intelligence: The Perfect Dance Duo

Prepare to embrace the era of augmented intelligence - where humans and AI form a dynamic duo to tackle challenges like Batman and Robin. Creativity, efficiency, and problem-solving will reach levels even Tony Stark would envy.

Ethical AI: Setting the Party Rules

No party is complete without rules, and the AI bash is no exception. We'll be dancing responsibly, ensuring AI operates within ethical boundaries and promotes inclusivity. Because no one likes a party crasher – AI included.

AI in Autonomous Systems: A Solo Performance

Move over, one-man bands; AI is taking the stage with mind-blowing solo performances in autonomous systems. Self-driving cars and drones are just the beginning – get ready for a tech symphony that will leave us all in awe.

AI in Creativity and Art: The Party Gets Artsy

Get ready for an AI art extravaganza! From AI-generated masterpieces to mind-bending music compositions, the party is about to get artsy like a Da Vinci exhibition. And who knows, maybe even AI will surprise us with the next Mona Lisa!

Umm…I wonder how many hands were lost in the making of this video!

Tech of the Day: USB-C

Hey, my tech-savvy friend! Let's dive into the marvelous world of USB-C, where cutting-edge engineering meets the ease of everyday connectivity. You see, the beauty of the USB-C cable lies in its reversible 24-pin connector design. Each pin serves a specific function, enabling not only high-speed data transfer but also power delivery capabilities that can provide different wattages and voltages to suit the needs of various devices.

But hold on tight because there's more to USB-C than meets the eye! It's not just your run-of-the-mill USB connector; it's the driving force behind the extraordinary Thunderbolt 3 technology. Thunderbolt 3 is no slouch in the data transfer department, boasting a blazing 40 gigabits per second – that's four times faster than the previous USB standards! Thanks to USB-C's robust architecture, it seamlessly supports Thunderbolt 3's high data rates, revolutionizing how we move data between devices.

But wait, there's more to this connector's bag of tricks! USB-C flaunts its versatility through "alternate modes." These modes allow the cable to do more than just USB stuff. With DisplayPort Alternate Mode, you can connect USB-C devices to external monitors and TVs, enjoying jaw-dropping visuals without a hitch. And if HDMI is your thing, fear not – USB-C has got you covered with HDMI Alternate Mode, enabling seamless connections to HDMI displays and devices.

Hold on to your hat because we're not done yet! USB-C is not just a data transfer and display wizard; it's also an audio maestro! Through the Audio Accessory Mode, this little connector can serve as an audio interface, allowing you to connect your devices to headphones or speakers with ease.

Oh, and let's not forget the magic of USB Power Delivery (USB-PD). This protocol enhances charging efficiency by establishing power contracts between devices. The Programmable Power Supply (PPS) within USB-PD grants devices the ability to control voltage levels, optimizing power delivery for fast and safe charging.

So, my friend, the USB-C cable is not just your average connector – it's a technological masterpiece! Its reversible design, Thunderbolt 3 support, alternate modes, and power delivery prowess make it an indispensable part of our tech-filled lives. Next time you see that little USB-C port, you'll know that it's not just any connector – it's a technological tour de force that's driving the future of connectivity and power delivery in our digital world. How's that for some technical magic?

W..T..F..

https://vidirsolutions.com/

Have feedback or want to contribute a video, article or tacos? Maybe I'm interested maybe I'm not sure that I'm looking for it. If you have something constructive you can catch me on Twitter. @robotsrcoming or email us at tnorris@automationjunkie.com

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🚀 Humans Created AI, BOXED out of existence, and more 😱

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 22:57:12 +0000

Watercooler Grade Robotics and Automation News Served Hot and Fresh

NEWS FLASH

Ok people we be making some changes to Automation Junkie, the website, the newsletter, to our bathroom habits, all kinds of changes! That's why we've been a little quiet for the past couple of weeks. Don't fret...we'll be filling up your automation cup with all kinds of nonsense news.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step... unless you're a robot then it starts with a software update and a full charge!

📣 For Your Reading Pleasure 📣

Boxed your way to bankruptcy
Nvidia will take over the world
Tech of the Day: GPUs....and why you need one

Todays Newsletter Brought To You By

Well, let me tell you something, people, these guys are the real deal! You know what they say, "it's not the size of your storage, it's how you use it", and Vidir knows how to use it!

They've got everything you need to take your storage game to the next level. Vertical carousels, vertical lift modules, and even automated storage and retrieval systems!

I know what you're thinking, "I don't need all that fancy stuff, I'm just trying to organize my warehouse". But let me tell you something, folks, these vertical solutions are the future! With Vidir, you'll be able to maximize your storage space, increase your productivity, and make your life a whole lot easier.

So what are you waiting for? Give Vidir a call today and take that first step towards a better storage future!

Sponsor A Newsletter

Have you heard of Boxed?

An online wholesaler with no membership fees to rival the likes of Sam's Club and BJ's Wholesale leveraging technology and automated warehouses. This kinda sorta startup went public and then bust, just a couple of weeks ago filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

I've learned a lot sitting in meetings with startup advisors, founders, executives, etc and one of the nuggets of wisdom is that pipe dreams cost money.

These guys spent way too many millions on warehouse automation (hardware and software) before they had a solid business plan. In this case they invested millions into ASRS and AGVs way too early. Is there a lesson to learn here? Yep, don't spend all your money on shiny toys when your business model sucks.

Nvidia Secretly Owns The AI World

Hey, have you heard about Nvidia? They're the cool kids in town who have been building some seriously powerful graphics processing units (GPUs). And you know what? These bad boys have not only taken the gaming industry by storm but have also been a game-changer for industries like healthcare, finance, and scientific research.

So, why are these GPUs so special? Well, they're perfect for AI applications because they can perform many calculations in parallel, which means they can analyze vast amounts of data at lightning-fast speeds. This is essential for training machine learning algorithms, which need to analyze huge datasets to identify patterns and make predictions.

And the best part? Nvidia has made it easier than ever for businesses and researchers to build their own AI applications using these GPUs. They've developed software tools and libraries that make it simple for developers to harness the power of GPUs to accelerate a range of applications, including image and speech recognition, natural language processing, and autonomous vehicles.

One of their most important contributions has been the development of the CUDA parallel computing platform, which allows developers to use GPUs to accelerate a wide range of applications. They've also created the TensorRT software library, which optimizes deep learning models to run on GPUs with maximum efficiency, reducing the time and cost of training these models.

Nvidia has been working hard to promote the adoption of AI by partnering with other companies and organizations. They've worked with car manufacturers to develop the Drive platform, which provides the computing power needed to power autonomous vehicles. They've also partnered with major cloud providers like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure to offer GPU-based virtual machines for AI workloads.

Overall, Nvidia has been instrumental in building the foundation for the field of AI. Their GPUs and software tools have made it possible for businesses and researchers to explore the potential of machine learning and deep learning, and to create applications that can automate many tasks that were previously performed by humans.

And the best part? Nvidia is just getting started. They're constantly investing in research and development, partnering with other companies, and supporting their customers to continue driving innovation in the AI landscape. So, WATCH OUT, world, because Nvidia is here to stay!

Job Board

Tech of the Day: GPU

A Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) is a specialized type of processor that is designed to handle complex mathematical calculations and graphics-related tasks. These processors are used in a wide range of applications, including gaming, scientific research, and artificial intelligence (AI). In recent years, the use of GPUs in automation and robotics has become increasingly prevalent due to their ability to accelerate complex computations, making them essential for many applications in these fields.

So, why are GPUs used in automation and robotics? There are several reasons for this. First, robots require a lot of computational power to process the vast amounts of data generated by their sensors and other inputs. GPUs are ideal for this because they can perform many calculations in parallel, allowing robots to process data more quickly and efficiently. This means that robots can perform tasks more quickly and with greater accuracy, making them more reliable and effective.

Second, GPUs are essential for machine learning and other AI applications. These technologies rely on large amounts of data to learn and improve over time. GPUs can process this data quickly and efficiently, making it possible for robots to learn from their environment and adapt to changing circumstances. This is essential for many applications in automation and robotics, such as autonomous vehicles, manufacturing, and logistics.

Finally, GPUs are highly customizable, making it possible to tailor their performance to specific applications. This means that they can be optimized for different types of tasks, allowing robots to perform specialized tasks more effectively.

So, what are the most important things to consider when applying a GPU in automation and robotics? Here are three key factors to keep in mind:

Performance: The performance of a GPU is a critical factor to consider when applying it to automation and robotics. The GPU must be able to process data quickly and efficiently to keep up with the demands of the application. This means that the GPU should have a high clock speed, a large number of processing cores, and a large amount of memory.

Compatibility: The GPU must be compatible with the hardware and software used in the application. This means that it should be able to interface with the sensors, motors, and other components used in the robot. Additionally, the software used to control the GPU should be compatible with the programming languages and libraries used in the application.

Power Consumption: Power consumption is a critical factor to consider when applying a GPU in automation and robotics. The GPU must consume as little power as possible to minimize the impact on the robot's battery life or power supply. This means that the GPU should be designed with energy efficiency in mind, using technologies like dynamic voltage and frequency scaling to reduce power consumption when the GPU is not being fully utilized.

GPUs are essential for automation and robotics due to their ability to accelerate complex computations and process large amounts of data quickly and efficiently. When applying a GPU in these fields, it is important to consider factors like performance, compatibility, and power consumption to ensure that the GPU is optimized for the application. As the use of automation and robotics continues to grow, the importance of GPUs in these fields is only likely to increase, making it essential for developers and engineers to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in GPU technology.

Hey we've got a guy for that! We now have a list of 900+ vendors in our basic list!

Automation Directory

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Promat is fake, High Flying Delivery Drones, PCs vs IPCs VS PLCs

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 18:46:12 +0000

Why did the robot go on a diet? Because it had too many megabytes!

Meme of the Day

News of the Day

Robots come in al shapes and sizes. Here’s some tech for little bots that move like caterpillars!

Carterpillar-like soft robot showcases great mobility skills

A soft robot that can move forward, backwards and dip under narrow spaces, imitating caterpillars, has been developed by researchers at North Carolina State University.

eandt.theiet.org/content/articles/2023/03/carterpillar-like-soft-robot-showcases-great-mobility-skills

Pay to play fake award goes to Rockwell Automation..

Rockwell Automation Katowice Facility Wins Factory of the Future Award

Katowice plant showcases the company’s own technology in action, with smart industry 4.0 operations supported by tight focus on employees and customers.

www.automation.com/en-us/articles/march-2023/rockwell-automation-katowice-facility-award?listname=Automation%20&%20Control%20News%20&%20Articles

It’s time to get your nails did people, robots doing manicures?

First Robot Manicure Unveiled at XpresSpa at John F. Kennedy International Airport

Press release content from Globe Newswire. The AP news staff was not involved in its creation.

apnews.com/press-release/globe-newswire/business-new-york-city-globe-newswire-a78c37ccec2a43b63bf31e9f9b389a94

Bits and Bytes

PROMAT…the material handling show putting on a happy face on vaporware and false hopes!

Yep, I went to Promat, and guess what I’ve been going to it since around 2005. I checked out the whole show making my way around looking for awesomeness. The longer I went the more dissapointed I became. I was looking for what tech was really getting people’s attention. The only booth with phones pointed at it almost non-stop is a tie between Agility Robotics and Boston Dynamics. That’s it. 2 booths out of hundreds of vendors.

So shout out to the crew at Agility for bringing Digit out to play. But the funny thing about their demo was that one of the robots totally faceplanted. Hey Agility why not plan for the failure and have it extend it’s arms before it bashes it’s face on the ground!

This got me thinking. And you know that’s never good! As an industry the industrial robotics and automation space is dull. There’s almost no glitz, no glamour, no showmanship. Instead you have a population of ill fitting suits trying to scan your badge to sell you snake oil (google it).

What this industry needs is ENERGY! F’n rockstar level energy! Hell turn it into a freakin circus for all I care. But if the industry is to grow and engage the future generations you gotta get away from the old school tie wearing, pleated pant way of thinking.

And, of course there’s an “and”, a little industry insider tip. Not everything at the show is at it may appear. It’s a dirty little secret that vendors will put machines into demo loops, over-ride production systems, and otherwise create the illusion of machines and software that works. The goal for the not so great vendors that suck at these shows is one thing. Get to scan as many badges as possible. When they reach out you’ll learn that the machine at the show is just a prototype or it doesn’t really work like it was demonstrated but that they have another widget they can sell you. I’ve seen vendors that can’t get their machines to work so they keep them powered off and I’ve heard sales people laughing about hooking people. Buyer beware and ask for customer references!!!

The kool kats sponsoring this newsletter!

Are you tired of doing all the grunt work around the office? Well, have no fear, because the igus Rebel cobot is here!

This little guy is the ultimate wingman for all your manufacturing needs. Not only is it a hard worker, but it also has a safety system that makes it safe to work alongside. So, no need to worry about it taking your job.

With the Rebel cobot, you can finally take a break and leave the heavy lifting to the machine. It's so easy to program, even a monkey in a suit could do it (just don't ask him what he's doing).

So, what are you waiting for? Get your own Rebel cobot and start building your own robotic empire (or maybe just get a head start on the party planning committee).

You want to sponsor one of these fantastically awesome newsletters too?

Random Video

PC vs IPC vs PLC

Today we're gonna talk about something that's super important in our daily lives but often overlooked: computers! Now, I know what you're thinking - "Hey, I know what a computer is, I’m no dummy I use one every day!" But hold up, hold up - there are actually different types of computers out there, and it's important to know what makes them unique. Specifically, we're gonna talk about personal computers, industrial PCs, and PLCs. Let's get into it!

First up, personal computers. You probably have one of these at home or work - they're the machines that run Windows or MacOS and are used for everything from browsing the web to editing documents. Personal computers are designed for general-purpose computing and are meant to be used by individuals or small groups. They're typically pretty affordable and can be customized with different hardware and software to suit your needs.

Next, we have industrial PCs. These bad boys are designed for use in manufacturing and other industrial settings. They're built to be rugged and durable, able to withstand harsh environments and extreme temperatures. Industrial PCs often have specialized features, like the ability to interface with different types of machinery or sensors. They can also be designed to meet specific industry standards, like those for food safety or explosion-proofing.

Finally, we have PLCs - or Programmable Logic Controllers. These are computers that are specifically designed to control machinery and other automated processes.

They're often used in manufacturing, transportation, and other industrial settings where precise control is needed. PLCs are different from personal computers and industrial PCs in that they're programmed using specialized software and are built to perform specific functions. They're often used in conjunction with sensors and other hardware to monitor and control things like temperature, pressure, and flow rate.

So, in simplest terms: personal computers are for general-purpose computing, industrial PCs are built for harsh environments and specialized functions, and PLCs are designed specifically for controlling machinery and other automated processes. Each type of computer has its own strengths and weaknesses, and choosing the right one depends on what you're trying to accomplish.

Now, you might be wondering why it's important to know the difference between these types of computers. Well, for one thing, it can help you choose the right computer for your needs. If you're running a business that involves manufacturing or other industrial processes, you might need an industrial PC or PLC to get the job done. On the other hand, if you're just using a computer for personal use, a personal computer is probably all you need.

Knowing the difference between these types of computers can also help you troubleshoot problems. If you're having issues with a PLC, for example, you'll need to know how it differs from a personal computer in order to diagnose the issue. And if you're trying to upgrade your computer, understanding the different types can help you make an informed decision about what hardware and software to invest in.

Computers are a big part of our lives, and it's important to know the difference between the different types. Now you're an expert, kinda, so go out and spread the word!

If you want to help us pay the bills join our directory of robotics and automation companies.

Robot & Automation Art

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Get to Innovating Before You Get Replaced By A Robot

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 02:45:39 +0000

Robots may be smart, but can they make a killer guacamole? I don't think so!

Meme of the Day

Tommy's Take

Oh, hey there! It's your favorite newsletter jockie, here to talk about how to be innovative in the robots and automation industry. Now, I know what you're thinking, "Tommy, what do you know about robotics?" Well, let me tell you, I may not be a robotics expert, but I do know a thing or two about being innovative.

So, let's get started. First off, it's important to keep up with emerging technologies. You know what they say, "you snooze, you lose." So, don't fall asleep on the job and miss out on new tech that could change the game. Read newsletters like this one and stay plugged into the latest and greatest.

Next up, collaboration is key. You can't do it all on your own, even if you're a badass like me. Working with other experts can bring fresh perspectives and help you come up with innovative solutions that you might not have thought of otherwise. And hey, who doesn't love bouncing ideas off other smart, sexy people?

Now, let's talk about the user experience. You can have the most high-tech, cutting-edge robot on the market, but if it's a pain in the ass to use, no one's gonna want it. So, make sure you're designing with the end user in mind. Put yourself in their shoes, and make sure your robot is efficient, intuitive, and easy to use.

Speaking of being user-friendly, let's not forget about sustainability. The world is changing, and we need to adapt. Incorporating sustainable practices and technologies into your products and processes can not only help the planet but also give you a competitive edge in the market.

But wait, there's more! Don't be afraid to take risks and try new things. That's how we got the chimichanga, after all. Embrace experimentation and learn from your failures. And hey, if you need someone to test out those new robots, you know who to call.

Last but not least, foster a culture of innovation. Encourage your team to share their ideas, and reward creativity and continuous improvement. Because let's face it, the only thing better than a smart, sexy person is a smart, sexy person with a great idea.

So, there you have it, folks. Some tips from your favorite automation superhero on how to be innovative in the robots and automation industry. Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got some robots to charge. Chimichangas on me!

News of the Day

What does $60M buy you? A hope and a dream! For the team at Fulfil Solutions it buys them more time to survive and prove their tech and business model works. Looks like a sweet platform with piece picking vertical lifts and amrs running around. I just get suspicious when I hear VC money is involved. A lot of times it’s vaporware..

Fulfil ― Next Generation Grocery Fulfillment Automation

Fully automated pick and pack, all temperatures and categories, item level data and control. Fulfil delivers what no other automation can.

www.fulfil.com

One of the biggest challenges robotics companies face is making the perfect humanoid robot. But looks like the reality is that no one wants a perfect humanoid robot as Disney demonstrates with Judy. Leave it to Disney to build a robot that is humans can relate to. What’s creepier a robot that demonstrates no emotion and can terrorize you or one that has human like flaws and can terrorize you?

Why Disney’s Judy Hopps Robot Is a Bad Omen For the Parks, the Cast Members, and the Guests

Maybe we shouldn't always "Try Everything."

www.disneydining.com/why-disneys-judy-hopps-robot-is-a-bad-omen-for-the-parks-the-cast-members-and-the-guests-ir1

This probably slipped under your radar (pun intented)but have you heard of the drone company that was awarded a $1.2M contract to provide perimeter security drones to the US Space Force?

Asylon Awarded $1M+ AFWERX Phase II SBIR Contract for U.S. Space Force - Asylon

Asylon awarded $1M+ AFWERX Phase II SBIR contract to transition its DroneCore platform from a fixed position to mobile asset for Space Force.

asylonrobotics.com/news/asylon-awarded-afwerx-sbir-contract-for-space-force

Helping us with lunch money this week

Do you love robots and high-tech gadgets? Then you're gonna want to check out Ouster! These guys are the real deal when it comes to lidar sensors and 3D mapping technology. Plus, they're not afraid to have a little fun. I mean, just look at their website. It's like a futuristic disco party in there. And let's be honest, who doesn't want to party with robots? So, if you want to be on the cutting edge of technology and have a good time while you're at it, Ouster is the company for you.

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Who’s Your Automation Daddy?

Don’t Lie-Dar to Me

Yo, what's good people?I’m back at it again with another lesson on the latest tech. Today, we're gonna talk about something that sounds like it's from a science fiction movie - lidar. You might be thinking, "What the hell is lidar?" Well, let me tell you, it's some cool sh*t.

Lidar is an acronym that stands for Light Detection and Ranging. It's a remote sensing technology that uses lasers to measure distances and create 3D maps of objects and environments. It's like a futuristic game of Marco Polo, but instead of shouting "Marco" and "Polo," we're shooting lasers and capturing data.

Now, there are two types of lidar - digital and analog. Digital lidar, also known as time-of-flight (ToF) lidar, uses a digital signal to capture and process the laser pulses. It's like taking a picture with a digital camera, where the data is captured in binary form.

On the other hand, analog lidar uses an analog signal to capture and process the laser pulses. It's like taking a picture with a film camera, where the data is captured as an analog signal.

So, what are the advantages of each? Well, digital lidar has a higher resolution and accuracy than analog lidar. It's like comparing the precision of a sniper rifle to a shotgun. Digital lidar can capture more points per second, which means it can create more detailed and accurate maps. Plus, the data is captured in digital format, which makes it easier to process and analyze.

Analog lidar, on the other hand, has a wider dynamic range and can capture more detail in low-light conditions. It's like comparing a black-and-white photograph to a color photograph. Analog lidar can capture more details, such as subtle variations in color and brightness, which are often lost in digital lidar scans. Additionally, analog lidar is less prone to interference from other sources, like sunlight or ambient light.

Now, why would you pick one over the other? Well, it depends on what you need it for. If you need high-speed, high-accuracy mapping, digital lidar is the way to go. It's great for applications like autonomous vehicles, where speed and accuracy are crucial. It's like a cheetah on the African savannah, fast and deadly accurate.

But if you need to capture detailed data in low-light conditions, analog lidar might be the better choice. It's like a ninja in the shadows, capturing all the details without getting caught. Analog lidar is great for applications like archaeology and environmental monitoring, where you need to capture detailed data in varying lighting conditions.

One of the biggest challenges facing lidar technology is cost. Lidar sensors can be expensive, and the high cost of sensors can limit the use of lidar in some applications. However, with the increasing demand for lidar technology, there's been a push to develop cheaper, more efficient sensors. This has led to the development of solid-state lidar, which uses microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) to control the lasers. Solid-state lidar sensors are smaller, lighter, and more cost-effective than traditional lidar sensors.

Another challenge facing lidar technology is the size of the data sets generated by lidar scans. Lidar scans can generate terabytes of data, which can be difficult to process and store. This has led to the development of cloud-based lidar processing services, which allow users to upload lidar data to the cloud and process it remotely. This makes it easier for users to access and process large data sets without having to invest in expensive hardware and software.

Despite these challenges, lidar technology is rapidly advancing and finding new applications. One of the most promising areas is autonomous vehicles. Lidar sensors can help self-driving cars "see" their environment and navigate safely. By creating a detailed 3D map of the environment, lidar sensors can help autonomous vehicles avoid obstacles and stay on the road.

Lidar is also being used in agriculture to help farmers optimize their crops. By creating detailed maps of crop fields, lidar sensors can help farmers identify areas that need more water, fertilizer, or other inputs. This can help reduce waste and increase yields.

In the construction industry, lidar is being used to create 3D models of buildings and structures. This can help architects and engineers design buildings more efficiently and accurately. Lidar can also be used to monitor the condition of buildings and structures, identifying areas that need repair or maintenance.

In the entertainment industry, lidar is being used to create immersive virtual reality experiences. By capturing detailed 3D scans of real-world environments, lidar sensors can create realistic virtual environments that users can explore and interact with.

So, there you have it - a rundown of digital and analog lidar and their respective advantages. As lidar technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more applications and innovations in the future. Who knows, maybe one day we'll all have our own lidar sensors, shooting lasers and capturing 3D maps of our surroundings. Until then, keep your eyes peeled for more lidar news and developments. Adios amigos!

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Keep It Simple For Robot's Sake

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 21:14:06 +0000

In the world of robotics and automation, there will always be shiny new gadgets and technologies vying for our attention. But it's important to stay focused on the task at hand and not get sidetracked by the latest shiny object that comes our way. Otherwise, we might end up wasting time and energy on something that ultimately doesn't matter

Meme of the Day

Tommy's Take

Alright, let's talk about keeping it simple in robotics and automation. Now, you might think that more technology and complexity is always better, but sometimes that's just not the case. Sometimes, less is more. But let’s reflect on what’s important when it comes to an automated system…throughput, accuracy, precision, and reliability.

First of all, keeping things simple can save you some serious dough. The more components and features you pack into a system, the more expensive it becomes. But by focusing on the essentials and keeping things streamlined, you can cut costs and still get the job done.

And let's not forget about reliability. You know what's more prone to failure than a simple system? A complicated one. The more bells and whistles you add, the more opportunities there are for something to go wrong. So if you want a system that's dependable and rock-solid, simplicity is the way to go.

Now, some people might think that a complex system is necessary to get top-notch performance. But that's not always the case. In fact, by focusing on the core functionality of a system and eliminating unnecessary features, you can often optimize performance and speed things up. Whenever I design a machine or system the first thing I do is write down what is the baseline goal of the system, or better yet if you have a white board around write it there. Cause what I find tends to happen is that some genius will come in and say, “hey we need to add….”. If you have this written down you can ask a simple question. How does what you’re asking for help with XYZ. If it doesn’t then it’s not needed.

And when it comes to usability, simplicity is essential. If a system is too complex or intimidating, nobody's gonna want to use it. Oh and this happens a lot in our space. You’d think a rocket scientist invented some of these automated systems out there. All kinds of flashing lights, unnecessary switches, etc. I remember being at a facility once where the Ops manager was explaining how their conveying system worked (a $10M conveyor in a DC). He said their is a whole loop of the system that goes unused and it’s the joke of the warehouse crew. But by keeping things simple and easy to understand, you can create a system that's user-friendly and accessible to a wider range of operators.

Finally, let's talk about scalability. As a system grows in size and complexity, it becomes more and more difficult to manage and maintain. But by designing systems with simplicity in mind, you can create a foundation that's much easier to scale over time. Design systems to be grown. Don’t create silos of nonsense! Let’s be real…coding with scalability in mind doesn’t take any more time than not.

So there you have it, folks. The case for keeping it simple in robotics and automation. Sure, there will always be situations where complexity is necessary. But if you want a system that's cost-effective, reliable, high-performing, user-friendly, and scalable, then sometimes less really is more. So go out and there and stop building boat anchors!

News of the Day

So what’s up with the RaaS model? I was a nay sayer back when I first heard of it and I’m still not sold on it….apparently neither is Fabric. They’ve gone from RaaS to selling the hardware. What I find really interesting is that what they’re doing isn’t new yet they’ve raised $300M…to build an integration company. 🤯

Fabric pivots from RaaS to platform sales model - The Robot Report

Fabric is pivoting from selling and supporting its solution in a RaaS model, to selling it as a platform solution.

www.therobotreport.com/fabric-pivots-from-a-raas-to-a-platform-sales-model

Northwestern University is onto something big. Swarm robotics big. Swarm robotics is a game changer and the sooner it’s implemented in our space the better…and once it makes it out to self driving cars we’ll see traffic accidents and traffic congestion be reduced. I’m curious if we’ll be able to get away from having stop lights and round abouts (or traffic circles if you’re from across the pond)

Swarm Robots Help Self-Driving Cars Avoid Collisions

The top priority for companies developing self-driving vehicles is that they can safely navigate and avoid crashing or causing traffic jams. Northwestern University has brought that reality one step closer with the development of the first decentralized algorithm with a collision-free, deadlock-free guarantee. The algorithm was tested by the researchers in a simulation of 1,024 […]

www.unite.ai/swarm-robots-help-self-driving-cars-avoid-collisions

VC money only leads to 2 things. The death of a company or IPO….

Plus One Robotics Raises $50 Million in Funding, Led by Scale Venture Partners, to Capitalize on $128 Billion Market Opportunity

Press release content from Business Wire. The AP news staff was not involved in its creation.

apnews.com/press-release/business-wire/artificial-intelligence-business-wire-4078cfd24d514472a34c94ed8fa459e8

Poor Sucker That Paid To Sponsor Today's Newsletter

Alright everybody, listen up! Inseer is a super duper innovative ergonomic assessment platform for businesses. It gives you real-time data and analytics so you can make better decisions and improve the performance of your most important resources: your people. That's right, folks, Inseer's got your back.

No seriously..with their tech than can use video based tools to help you be the hero in saving someone’s back!

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Unsung Automation Hero

What’s an AC RIO?

Alright, alright, listen up, people. We're talking about this thing called an AC RIO, or as I like to call it, the "Analog and Communication Reconfigurable Input/Output" module. It's basically a computer made specifically for industrial automation. It's got all sorts of inputs and outputs, plus a built-in processor, so you can control and monitor all kinds of equipment and processes.

The great thing about an AC RIO is how flexible it is. You can program it to do pretty much whatever you want, and it can handle all sorts of communication protocols. It's perfect for those situations where you need to monitor or control multiple devices or sensors, or when you need to act fast for real-time control.

So, when should you use one of these bad boys? Well, there are a few situations where an AC RIO might be just what you need:

When you need flexible I/O capabilities: You want to keep tabs on multiple devices or sensors? AC RIO's got you covered.
When you need real-time control: You need to act fast and with precision? AC RIO can handle it.
When you need to adapt to changing requirements: You don't want to have to swap out hardware every time something changes? AC RIO is programmable, baby.

Now, if you're thinking about getting yourself an AC RIO, there are some things to consider:

I/O capacity: Make sure you're getting one with enough analog and digital inputs and outputs to handle your needs.

Processing power: You want one with enough power to handle your application without breaking a sweat.

Integration and compatibility: Make sure your AC RIO can play nice with your existing automation system and other devices or sensors.

So there you have it, folks. The AC RIO - a flexible, powerful tool for industrial automation. Just make sure you consider those factors when you're buying one, and you'll be good to go.

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🤖 Big Companies Kinda Suck At Doing Cool Stuff, Robotics For The Rest Of Us🦾

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 21:15:15 +0000

Automation Junkie

So fresh you can still smell the stench

Get ready folks, the future of automation is coming in hot! With AI, machine learning, and robots on the rise, we'll soon have to rely on our personalities to stand out in the job market. So, if you're not charming or funny, now might be a good time to start practicing!

Meme of the Day

News and updates you need, but without the awkward small talk sponsored by:

Check it out, people - we've got a new player in the construction game, and it's called OKIBO! This robot is gonna change the game, and maybe you’re life when it comes to painting interiors on the construction site. No more worrying about human error, no more worrying about missing spots, no more worrying about uneven brush strokes. This robot has got it all covered! And the best part? It's gonna save you some serious cash! So if you want to get the job done right and get it done fast, you better call OKIBO or better yet smash that ORDER ROBOT button on their website.

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Big Companies Can't Innovate

We've got a problem here in the robotics and industrial automation industry. You see, the big guys are know-it-alls. And by big guys, I mean the big companies with all the money, the resources, and the power to make things happen. But for some reason, they just can't seem to get their act together.

Now, I don't want to name any names, but let's just say that these companies are like a giant dinosaur. They're slow, they're lumbering, and they just can't adapt to the changing environment. Meanwhile, the little guys are like a sleek, nimble cheetah. They're fast, they're agile, and they're able to take advantage of new opportunities as they arise.

The irony is that the big guys have some great innovations that they just put on a shelf or worse yet they try to bring to market themselves. Here’s why they struggle to bring mind blowing tech to the masses….

One of the biggest reasons is that these companies are often too focused on their existing business models and technologies. They've invested a lot of time, money, and resources into their current operations, and they're scared to make any major changes that could disrupt their existing revenue streams. They’re so scared of messing up what they already have going in they often end up putting their most innovative ideas on the back burner, where they never see the light of day.

Another reason is that these companies often struggle to connect with their target audience. They may have an amazing new technology or product, but if they don't know how to effectively market it to their customers, it may never gain traction in the market. This is particularly true for complex technologies like robotics and automation, which can be difficult for the average person to understand. And the kicker is…maybe their existing customer isn’t the ideal customer of the new tech, and most likely they won’t be. Why? Cause the really disruptive tech isn’t usually a solution for the current client, but instead it solves a problem that only a small portion of the client base realize exists.

Big companies often suffer from a lack of agility and flexibility. They may have all the resources and money in the world, but if they can't quickly adapt to changing market conditions or customer needs, they risk losing out to more nimble competitors. This is especially true in industries like robotics and automation, where technology is constantly evolving and new innovations are being introduced all the time.

Finally, there's the issue of bureaucracy and red tape, don’t get me started here. I’ll be on my soapbox all day and night. Big companies often have a lot of layers of management and decision-making, FULL OF MANAGERS, which can slow down the process of bringing new technologies to market. This can be frustrating for innovators and entrepreneurs who are used to moving quickly and making decisions on the fly. It’s also annoying as can be to the creators of the innovations, especially when they know they have a winning tech.

So what's the solution? What’s the proverbial enigma for the giants of tech? Well, for starters, big companies need to be more willing to take risks and invest in new technologies, even if it means disrupting their existing operations. They also need to be more open to collaboration with smaller, more agile companies that may be better equipped to bring new innovations to market. This second part is the key. Spin off the new tech into a new company and out from under the spirit crushing purgatory that is corporate hell. Assemble a group of leaders (not managers) and innovators, give them a budget and set them free. Check in on them every now and again but don’t you dare start poking your nose into their day to day.

Oh so the big tech company doesnt want to release the worlds best widget into the wild? Well they’re going to suck wind unless they intentionally make some huge changes. Big companies need to streamline their decision-making processes and eliminate unnecessary bureaucracy and red tape. This may mean reorganizing their management structures, empowering employees to make more decisions on their own, or simply adopting a more agile and flexible approach to business.

If these big companies can follow these simple steps, they just might be able to unleash some mind-blowing innovations on the world. Who knows, maybe the next big thing in robotics and industrial automation is sitting on a shelf somewhere, just waiting for the right company to take a chance on it.

News of the Day

Here’s a weird twist..a company called Elephant Robotics has made robotic cats. CATS! Of all the despicable beings on this planet, cats! You know what would be great? How about they make these robot cats using the fur from real cats! I know a guy that has a bag ful of cat fur and no it’s not me!

MetaCat: Gift the Purr~Fect Companion Robotic Pet Cat

MetaCat Companion Pet cats look, feel, and sound like real cats. But they're so much more than soft fur, soothing purrs, and pleasant meows. These cats respond to petting, hugging, and motion much like the real ones you know and love but don't require any special care or feeding. This personally rich experience can bring joy and comfort to aging loved ones without any vet bills to worry about.- Built-in sensors respond to motion and touch- Realistic, soft fur looks and feels like a real cat- Cat-like movements and sounds- VibraPurr sounds and feels like real purring.

shop.elephantrobotics.com/collections/companion-cat/products/metacat

For all you beer lovers out there…Wanna get served a beer by a robot? The team at Hop Robotics are probably at an event near you. Check them out at https://www.hoprobotics.com/

With so many books out in the world it’s not surprising that there’s book scanning tech out there but I haven’t ran across it until now. You know what would be awesome? If there were warehouses of these bots scanning books and then feeding them to AI.

Automatic Book Scanner | Treventus

The ScanRobot® 2.0 MDS automatic book scanner with unique v-shape book cradle, prism capturing technology and automatic page turning with up to 2,500 pages/h.

www.treventus.com/scanner/automatic-book-scanner

Random Video

I want one of these…

Pneu-Mat-Ics

Today we're talking about pneumatics. Now, I know what you're thinking, "pneu-what?" Don't worry, I'm here to break it down for you in plain English.

First things first, what is pneumatics? Essentially, it's a way to power stuff using compressed air. It's kind of like using a balloon to power a toy car, except on a much larger scale.

Now, here are three key things to know about pneumatics. First, it's a reliable and durable way to power machines. Since there are no electrical components involved, you don't have to worry about short circuits or electrical interference. Plus, it can handle heavy loads and operate in harsh environments.

Second, pneumatics is really easy to control. You can use valves to control the flow of compressed air, which allows for precise movements and positioning of machines. It's like having your own personal robot army, but without the complicated programming.

Third, pneumatics is pretty darn efficient. It doesn't require a lot of energy to compress air, and the air can be stored in tanks for later use. This means you can power machines for longer periods of time without worrying about running out of juice.

So, when should you incorporate pneumatics into an automated system? Well, it really depends on the application. Pneumatics is great for tasks that require high force, like lifting heavy objects or pressing materials together. It's also great for repetitive tasks that require precise movements, like assembly line work.

But, if you need really precise movements or if your application requires a lot of speed, you might want to consider other power sources, like hydraulics or electricity.

Pneumatics is a reliable, easy to control, and efficient way to power machines using compressed air. It's great for tasks that require high force or precise movements, but may not be appropriate for all applications. So, if you're looking to power your own personal robot army, you might want to consider giving pneumatics a try.

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The Home Of The ParityScore

Evaluating vendors in the automation space does not have to be hard, ParityScore brings clarity to a cloudy landscape

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🤖 Robotics and Automation Vendors are not all good, What's a Rasberry Pi you ask? 🦾

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 16:57:09 +0000

Industrial automation is like having a team of minions doing all the hard work for you, without the banana obsession and the silly accent.

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News and updates you need, but without the awkward small talk sponsored by:

You want a company that's all about sustainability and making plastic products that don't suck? Then you need Cabka, baby! They've got facilities all over the world, so no matter where you at, they got your back. And let me tell you, they don't play around when it comes to the environment – they're all about that recycled material, so you can feel good about buying their stuff. If you're looking for plastic pallets, boxes, or containers that are as solid as they are good for the Earth, Cabka's the way to go. It's like my momma always said, being responsible is the new sexy!

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Know Your Vendors!

There's a lot to be said about the importance of doing your due diligence on vendors, like lot’s. Whether you're looking to purchase a product or a system, partnering with the wrong vendor can can make your life suck and be bad for your business. That's why it's essential to research potential vendors thoroughly to ensure that you're making informed decisions that will benefit your company in the long term.

One of the most significant benefits of doing your due diligence on vendors is that it can help you avoid throwing cash into a bottomless firepite full of fire breathing snakes. Choosing the wrong vendor can lead to missed deadlines, low-quality products, and poor customer service, all of which can damage your business's reputation and bottom line. By researching potential vendors thoroughly, you can identify any red flags or warning signs before entering into a partnership, minimizing your risk of making costly mistakes. You know, the kind that could cost you your job..

But doing your due diligence isn't just about avoiding mistakes. It's also about finding the best possible vendor for your needs. This includes evaluating not just the quality of their products or services but also their level of support, pricing, and reputation in the industry. By doing your research, you can ensure that you're making an informed decision that will benefit your business in the long term. Too many buyers of robotics and automation system overlook this step. They think, oh so and so over there, they’re good people…we should order from them. Next thing you know these guys are stuck with systems that don’t meet their expectations or worse yet, they are so horribly implemented they don’t work at all. It happens. And the stories don’t always end happily!

So, how can you avoid being sold by slick salespeople when researching vendors? One of the most important things you can do is to ask the right questions. Salespeople are skilled at making their products or services sound amazing, but it's up to you to ask the tough questions that will help you make an informed decision. Ask about the vendor's track record, their level of experience, and any relevant certifications or qualifications they hold. In addition, make sure to ask about their pricing and support options, as these can be critical factors in determining whether a vendor is a good fit for your business.

Another essential strategy is to do your own research. Don't rely solely on information provided by the vendor. Let me rephrase that, NEVER rely on information provided by a vendor. Instead, take the time to confirm the claims they're making. Look for independent reviews or testimonials from other customers, and seek out objective information about the vendor's products or services. This will help you avoid being swayed by clever marketing tactics and make a more informed decision.

It's crucial to take your time when evaluating potential vendors. Don't rush into a decision, even if the salesperson is putting on the hard sell. Take the time to evaluate each vendor thoroughly, and don't be afraid to ask for more information or clarification if you need it. Remember, choosing the right vendor is a critical decision that can have a significant impact on your business – so it's worth taking the time to get it right.

Doing your due diligence on vendors is a critical part of making informed business decisions. By researching potential vendors thoroughly, you can avoid costly mistakes and find the best possible vendor for your needs. To avoid being sold by salespeople, make sure to ask the right questions, do your own research, and take your time when evaluating each vendor. With these strategies in mind, you can make an informed decision that will benefit your business for years to come and maybe you can keep your job too!

News of the Day

Another fear mongering post about AI and robotics taking over jobs. It’s true it’s happening but the sooner people start accepting this reality the sooner they can start preparing for it, IMO.

Hundreds of Thousands of Jobs At Risk of Automation and AI Replacement in Tennessee

The U.S. job market is about to enter an era of unprecedented change that could impact tens of millions of workers. As robotics and artificial intelligence technologies continue to advance,

www.citizentribune.com/news/state/hundreds-of-thousands-of-jobs-at-risk-of-automation-and-ai-replacement-in-tennessee/article_c4d197c7-e47e-5ac1-8d66-2788cc71a4da.html

Another unknown company bought another unknown company…Galco is apparently an industrial automation supply house out of Ohio. Closest to maybe a Kirby Risk or Van Meter.. As the robotics and automation business grows these types of component distributors will be critical in supporting the lifecycles of systems in the field.

I’m bullish on this company, Sarcos, as well as others like Third Wave Automation. These guys are promoting the idea of a hybrid automation model. Operator drive, autonomous, AND remotely operated!

Sarcos Commercializing and Expanding its Line of Teleoperated Robotics and Software Solutions

Press release content from Business Wire. The AP news staff was not involved in its creation.

apnews.com/press-release/business-wire/business-c6404cc1ccbe4f999acea36f9b9cc0af

Random Video

Who doesn’t love giant battle bots?

Rasberry PI in Your Face

Alright, folks, let me tell you about this tiny little device called a Raspberry Pi. It's not a dessert, it's not a fruit, and it's definitely not something you can use to make a smoothie. What it is, is a small computer that's about the size of a credit card. That's right, a whole computer that you can fit in your pocket!

Now, you might be thinking, "Why would I need a tiny computer like that? I've already got my phone and my laptop." Well, let me tell you, the Raspberry Pi is not your typical computer. It's a versatile and affordable device that you can use for a wide range of projects, from building your own retro gaming console to controlling your home automation system.

So, how does it work? The Raspberry Pi is essentially a miniaturized version of a regular computer, with a processor, memory, and input/output capabilities. It's powered by a micro-USB cable, just like your phone, and it can be connected to a monitor or TV using an HDMI cable. You can also connect a keyboard and mouse to the device to control it.

The great thing about the Raspberry Pi is that it's highly customizable. It runs on open-source software, which means that anyone can access the source code and modify it to suit their needs. This makes it a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists who like to tinker and experiment with technology.

But the Raspberry Pi isn't just for hobbyists. It's also being used in a variety of industries, from education to agriculture. Schools are using it to teach programming and robotics, while farmers are using it to monitor crop growth and automate irrigation systems. It's even being used in space, on the International Space Station, to run experiments and collect data.

So, there you have it, folks. The Raspberry Pi may be small, but it's mighty. It's a versatile and affordable device that you can use for a wide range of projects, whether you're a DIY enthusiast, a student, or a farmer. And who knows, maybe one day, it'll be powering the next big technological breakthrough.

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🤖 Automation Junkie Newsletter Issue #33 🦾

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 13:17:00 +0000

Thanks to industrial automation, we can now accomplish in one hour what used to take a team of workers a full day to mess up!

Meme of the Day

News and updates you need, but without the awkward small talk sponsored by:

These cats are so global, they probably have conveyors going through every corner of the world. They dont just move boxes and stuff, they're all about "material handling solutions." That's like the fancy version of saying they help factories get their “stuff” together. They have spirals and elevators that would make Willy Wonka look like an amateur, and they can customize these systems to fit your needs like a glove. And they're all about saving the planet, too - I mean, in a world where automation is taking over, somebody's gotta look out for Mother Earth. AmbaFlex is all about energy efficiency and reducing waste, 'cause they know what's up. And they're not satisfied with just keeping things moving, nope - these folks are all about innovation. They're like, "what if we had a conveyor belt that could do your laundry too?" I mean, that's some next-level stuff right there. AmbaFlex, baby!

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Let’s Get Automating

Alright, everybody, listen up! As your fearless leader, I just wanted to tell you all that being an engineer with big ideas in a large corporation is a challenge, but I know you're all up to it. I mean, you're engineers! You're the smartest people in the room, am I right?

Now, I know that getting buy-in from management can be tough, but don't be afraid to speak up and share your ideas. You need to be bold, like a lion. Roar like a lion, everyone! 🦁

And let's not forget about the naysayers who might be resistant to change. Look, they're just scared. They don't have your vision or your creativity. But you do! And if you band together and build a coalition of supporters, you can overcome any obstacle. Play politics folks!

Now, when it comes to resources, I know it can be tough. But remember, necessity is the mother of invention. So get scrappy! Use what you have, borrow from other departments, or maybe even make a deal with Billy Bob in IT. Be creative and don’t take the first no keep you down.

And finally, let's talk about failure. I know it's scary. It's like going down a waterslide blindfolded. But don't be afraid to take risks. Sometimes you have to jump off the diving board before you know how deep the water is. 🤿 But I guarantee that if you keep trying and keep pushing, you'll succeed. And when you do, you'll feel like a rockstar!

So, engineers, I want you to be bold, be brave, and most importantly, be yourselves. Because that's what makes you all amazing. Now let's go out there and change the world! 👊

News of the Day

Why is it that artists (painters, musicians, writers) are the first under attack by AI powered systems? I can tell you why…cause engineers built AI and those creative types are their arch nemesis that’s why!

Carnegie Mellon engineers made an AI-powered robot that manually paints pictures from text, audio, and visual prompts

The BIG team named the robot FRIDA as a nod to Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and as an acronym for Framework and Robotics Initiative for Developing Arts....

www.techspot.com/news/97671-carnegie-mellon-engineers-made-ai-powered-robotic-portrait.html

The other day I was thinking about why has vr not gone mainstream with industrial automation? Seems like igus is moving in that direction!

Hannover Fair preview: igus increases the simplicity of Low Cost Automation

igus is stepping up the pace of Low Cost Automation and making entry into automation easier and more affordable than ever before. The interaction of

www.designworldonline.com/hannover-fair-preview-igus-increases-the-simplicity-of-low-cost-automation

Have some cash burning a hole in your pocket? No problem! Hop onto this kickstarter campaign. A promise of a perfectly manicured lawn awaits you. They may be overselling their bot…just saying.

RoboUP Launches the Ultimate No Perimeter Wire RTK+AI Robot Lawn Mower

Press release content from Globe Newswire. The AP news staff was not involved in its creation.

apnews.com/press-release/globe-newswire/technology-science-globe-newswire-93197e730ec86039e1df9d36b298a6a2

Random Video

Any automation video with a “caution can be lethal” in the title must be awesome

You Get a Palletizer, You Get a Palletizer, Nope You Don’t

Okay, listen up everybody! Today, we're talking about something very important - palletizing robots! Now, I know what you're thinking, "what the heck is a palletizing robot?" Well, my friends, let me tell you - it's a machine that can stack and organize products onto pallets for shipping and distribution. Pretty cool, huh?

The key task of these robots is to make sure all the products get stacked onto the pallet in a neat and organized way. And let me tell you, that's not an easy task. It takes some serious skill and precision. Luckily, these robots are up for the challenge!

Now, let's talk about the major components of a palletizing robot. First, there's the robot arm. This thing is responsible for moving products around and making sure they get stacked onto the pallet just right. Then there's the end-of-arm tooling, which is basically like the robot's hands. It's designed to grip and manipulate the products so they end up in the right spot. And last but not least, there's the control software. This bad boy is responsible for making sure all the moving parts work together like a well-oiled machine.

But, let me tell you, implementing one of these robots isn't as easy as it sounds. You've got to choose the right robot for the job, and it's got to be able to handle the weight and size of the products you're working with. And don't even get me started on the end-of-arm tooling. That stuff needs to be just right or else you're going to end up with a big old mess.

And then there's the integration with your existing systems. That's where things can get really tricky. You've got to make sure all the different parts work together seamlessly. It's like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. But, with a little bit of patience and hard work, you can get it done.

And once you've got that robot up and running, it's important to make sure your people know how to use it. You've got to train your operators and maintenance personnel to keep that thing running smoothly. After all, we don't want any robots running amok in the warehouse, do we?

So, there you have it, folks - a little introduction to palletizing robots. I hope you learned something today. And remember, if you're ever feeling overwhelmed, just take a deep breath and say to yourself, "That's what she said."

If you want to help us pay the bills join our directory of robotics and automation companies.

Robot & Automation Art

I Don’t Compute

The Home Of The ParityScore

Evaluating vendors in the automation space does not have to be hard, ParityScore brings clarity to a cloudy landscape

www.parityscore.com

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🤖 Robots are like toddlers, but with better programming and a mean streak

Sat, 18 Feb 2023 01:40:12 +0000

The only way to do great work is to love what you do... or program a robot to do it for you.

Meme of the Day

Bringing you the news and updates you need, but without the awkward small talk.

Civ Robotics, is the hero of the construction and surveying industry! Through sand and mud their bot is built to get the job done. Construction grade robotics for the toughest jobs. Go build something epic!

Land surveying marking robots | Civ Robotics

Civ Robotics builds autonomous layout systems for the construction industry with an emphasis on solar farm and road projects that require thousands of coordinates to be marked every day.

www.civrobotics.com

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Can You Keep Up?

Well, well, well, look who's talking about automation at an accelerated pace! It's me, Tommy, your guide to this wonderfully deceptive world of robots and automation! And let me tell you, this automation thing is really taking off like a pallet racking salesman sales pitch!

As we all know, automation is becoming more prevalent, efficient, and cost-effective. But what does that mean for the end-users of technology? Well, folks, it means we might not need to hire a temp to do our filing anymore! Can I get an "oh yeah" from my cubicle dwellers?

But in all seriousness, this acceleration of automation is no joke. We're talking about machines doing things that used to require human labor, like assembling cars or even flipping burgers. And as the old saying goes, when the machines take over, we'll all be out of a job. But hey, at least we won't have to deal with your office pranks anymore, right?

In all honesty, there are a few things to keep in mind when adopting new technologies. First, we need to think about the impact on our workforce. We can't just automate everything without considering the people who will be affected. We need to make sure they're prepared for these changes, and that might mean investing in training or finding new roles for them.

Take our warehouse for example, if we were to automate all the manual labor, we’d end up replacing Old Bobby with a robot named R.O.Y (Robotic Operations Yielder). Now, that’s not fair, Bobby has been with us for years, and he knows how to handle our business. It's important to ensure that the workforce is prepared for these changes. And let's be honest, Bobby could use a little bit of retraining, am I right?

Secondly, we need to make sure these new technologies are secure and reliable. I don't want to be the one explaining to your boss why the system got hacked by some 14-year-old kid in his mom's basement. We need to prioritize security and make sure we have the right protections in place.

In fact, we had a security breach last year where the boss ended up clicking a suspicious link and it almost brought down our whole email system. Not cool, man. We need to make sure that we are taking the necessary precautions to prevent any security breaches or other risks. The last thing we want is you downloading a virus onto your computer and causing chaos in the company network.

And finally, we need to think about the ethical implications. I mean, we're talking about machines making decisions that could impact people's lives. We need to make sure these technologies are being used in a way that aligns with our values as a company and as a society. We don't want to be the next Skynet, do we? And if you get that reference MAJOR brownie points to you good sir!

Let’s say, for instance, we implement an AI chatbot to answer customer inquiries. While it might be more efficient, we need to make sure that our customers are getting the best service possible. We don’t want our chatbot to respond with, "I'm sorry, I don't understand the question" every time a customer asks for a product that we don't sell. We want to make sure our customers feel heard and valued, even if it means hiring someone to answer inquiries manually.

So there you have it, folks. Automation is coming, and it's coming fast. But as long as we keep these things in mind, we'll be just fine. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go practice my robot dance moves. Catch you on the flip side!

News of the Day

Toyota is focusing on the home care market. I doubt they’ll figure it out. Big companies have a way of killing off brilliance.

Toyota Research Institute’s robots leave home

Toyota Research Institute SVP Max Bajracharya discussing the research wing’s learnings, changes and challenges.

techcrunch.com/2023/02/16/toyota-research-institutes-robots-leave-home

Who cares about making sure we have the best defenses in the world? This red, white, and blue blooded American patriot! If you aren’t in the know….guess who’s making it rain on the automation industry? That’s right..prime contractors for the US government!

Unleashing Automation for a Resilient Aerospace & Defense Sector

The aerospace and defense industry needs ways to overcome labor shortage-driven production challenges. Automation solutions and SAP can help

news.sap.com/2023/02/unleashing-automation-resilient-aerospace-defense-sector

Well, you heard it here folks, I’m disagreeing with the Wall Street Journal. Their article reports that companies are slow to adopt automation technology due to technical restraints. I call that nonsense. The slow adoption is because companies are slow to appropriate capital due to traditional ROI models. ROI can no longer be tied to labor costs. There needs to be a factor for the opportunity cost of NOT having labor.

Companies Are Slow to Adopt Robot-Operated ‘Dark’ Warehouses

Limits to robotic technology are hampering efforts to create fully automated fulfillment centers, operators and executives say

www.wsj.com/articles/companies-are-slow-to-adopt-robot-operated-dark-warehouses-46e1c887

Random Video

ChatGPT and it’s impact on industrial automation..

I Love You…My Robot

Alright, listen, 'cause I'm about to school you on the uncanny valley. It's like this freaky thing where stuff gets too human-like and it just starts to feel like you're living in a horror movie.

Picture this: you're at the mall and you see a robot that looks almost human, but not quite. It's like a bad botox job or something, and it just feels off. You can't quite put your finger on why it's so creepy, but you just know you don't wanna be alone with that thing in a dark alley.

Now, why does this happen? Some people say it's because our brains are hardwired to recognize and respond to human-like features. So when we see something that's almost human, it's like our brains can't handle it and just short-circuits.

Others say it's 'cause we start to project human emotions and intentions onto these things. So when they don't act like we expect them to, it's like, "whoa, robot, you're giving me mixed signals here!" And not in a good kinda way.

But here's the thing, y'all. This uncanny valley is serious business, and it's got implications for all sorts of stuff. Like, if you're making a robot to interact with humans, you gotta be careful not to make it too human-like, or you're gonna give people nightmares. And if you're creating a video game character, you gotta make sure they look real enough, but not so real that they creep people out.

But the craziest thing is, with technology getting more and more advanced, we're gonna start seeing more and more of this stuff. Like, picture being in a virtual reality game and coming across a character that looks almost like a real human. It's like, "oh snap, is this for real or am I still in the game?"

Denise - 3D model by Realbotix (@Nextos)

A visualization of the new robot head. - Denise - 3D model by Realbotix (@Nextos)

skfb.ly/6W8XJ

The uncanny valley is like a bad sci-fi movie come to life. It's real, it's creepy, and it's got implications for all sorts of technology. But as long as we keep our wits about us and don't get too carried away with making stuff look too human-like, we should be good. Just remember, robots are cool and all, but they won’t ever replace us humans, cause, you know, we're just too damn charming.

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Robot & Automation Art

Robots To The Rescue

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Ready for the Tidal Wave of Automation?

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 12:20:00 +0000

When you finally teach robots to do your chores, but they start taking over the world and you're like 'Well, this wasn't exactly what I had in mind...’

Meme of the Day

The Automation Wave is Coming

Over the past week I’ve seen a huge uptick of chatter about robotics competitions. And it got me thinking. Yeah I know, here he goes again doing that thinking thing. But seriously though, right now there are robotics clubs popping up in schools all across the US. So what’s the big deal?

It feels like a wave is coming. Like a tsunami I can feel the trembling in my loins. There is a whole generation of kids in from elementary to high school age that are learning how to code, how to build, how to design…robots and automation. So let’s fast forward to say 20 years when these kids are well into their careers. On the professional side, they’ll consider automation normal, and manual tasks, at least at work, will be dumb. On the personal side, they’ll have automation doing the basic stuff so they can focus on more important things in life.

What does this mean for those of us in the business now? It means we haven’t seen anything yet. We have no idea the surge of tech that will come out revolutionizing the way we live and what’s considered work. So how do we encourage, fuel, and create nuclear fusion growth of this industry?

It's all up to our youth! Yup, you heard it right, the youth, not a bunch of grey haired old timers or neck beards. The young folks are the ones driving the development and implementation of these new technologies. And let me tell you, it's a good thing because these kids are smart, creative, and ready to take on the world and not going to be held back by the current paradigms.

Now, organizations like First Inspires, they're doing something pretty cool by giving kids the chance to design and build robots and compete in challenges. And I'm telling you, when you give kids a robot to play with, they'll come up with the craziest and most amazing ideas.

But here's the thing, it's not just about the technical skills. First Inspires also emphasizes teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. These are the kinds of skills that make a real difference in the workplace, especially when you're working with robots. You gotta have a good head on your shoulders, know how to work with others, and have a knack for solving problems.

And let's not forget about the power of creativity. Young folks have a fresh perspective and a willingness to think outside the box serving you up a whole new way of looking at problems. They're not limited by old ways of doing things and are more likely to take risks and come up with new and exciting ideas. That's why the future of robotics is in good hands!

Now, I know what you're thinking, 'what about the robots taking over our jobs?' Well, here's the deal. The future of robotics is not just about building new technologies, it's also about making sure they're used in a responsible and ethical way. And that's where the young people come in. They'll be the ones making decisions about how these technologies are used and how they impact our lives. And that's why it's important to give them the tools they need to make informed decisions and ensure a bright future for everyone.

The future of robotics and automation is up to our youth, and I'm pretty confident they're going to do a fantastic job! They're smart, creative, and ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. Let's give them the support and resources they need to succeed! And if they don't succeed, we'll just blame it on the robots! And be ready to ride the wave because it’s coming and if you just stand with feet planted in the sand it’s going to knock you on your @ss and having you pick sand from places sand shouldn’t be picked out of!

News of the Day

What the hell is a perpetual power delivery system? Looks like a CaPow snatched $7.5M in VC cash to chase this idea. The website doesn’t tell you much aside from there are stickers you put on the floor, and a powerbank that replaces your battery. CaPow.energy

CaPow Raises $7.5 Million Seed Round Funding to Introduce Battery-Free Perpetual Power Delivery System for Robots in Logistic Centers and Industrial Facilities

CaPow, a perpetual power solution provider, today announced it raised a $7.5 million Seed round to scale up the commercialization of its battery-free, wireless, energy delivery eco-system for autonomous robotics.

www.yahoo.com/now/capow-raises-7-5-million-090000272.html

AI is getting closer and closer to becoming human-like. Eventually humans won’t be able to tell the difference between a convo with a bot or real person..but the bot will!

You've got to have heart: Computer scientist works to help AI comprehend human emotions

Bring up robot-human relations, and you're bound to conjure images of famous futuristic robots, from the Terminator to C-3PO.

techxplore.com/news/2023-02-youve-heart-scientist-ai-comprehend.html

The market with the most potential for automation sales is still growing. This is just the tip, with the real meat being below the surface! Robots sales don’t include a lot of other automation categories!

North America Sees Record Robot Sales in 2022

Press release content from Business Wire. The AP news staff was not involved in its creation.

apnews.com/press-release/business-wire/business-e0681cd9ea99408ba3caf4bacbf18ad4

Bringing you the news and updates you need, but without the awkward small talk.

AGILOX

Hey, folks! Want to take your material handling process to the next level? Then call Agilox! They'll boost your efficiency, cut costs, and be there for you when you need 'em - no questions asked. It's like having your own team of robot superheroes! So pick up that phone, and let's make material handling great again!

AGV & AMR: Automated & Autonomous Guided Vehicles | AGILOX

AGILOX develops & produces Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs). ✓ Find out more about our Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) on our homepage!

www.agilox.net/en

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Random Video

To CAD or Not To CAD?

In the world of CAD, you got two approaches: dimension-driven and object-driven. It's like choosing between precision and creativity. You want your designs to be on point like a laser beam? Go dimension-driven. Need to be flexible like a yoga instructor? Go object-driven.

Dimension-driven CAD is a design approach that centers on defining objects in terms of their physical dimensions. This approach involves creating objects based on pre-defined dimensions and rules, such as length, width, height, and tolerances. These dimensions are usually entered into the CAD software manually or imported from other software applications. Once the dimensions are defined, the CAD software automatically generates the associated geometric shapes. A good example of DD CAD is Autocad.

One of the benefits of using dimension-driven CAD is that it provides a high level of precision and accuracy in the design process. This approach allows designers to create objects that meet specific size and shape requirements, which can be especially useful in industries where precision is critical, such as aerospace and engineering.

On the other hand, object-driven CAD is a design approach that focuses on creating objects based on their intended functionality and form. With this approach, designers begin by creating objects in the CAD software as simple geometric shapes, such as circles, rectangles, and lines. They then modify and combine these shapes to create the desired object. Object-driven CAD allows designers to quickly create complex objects with a high degree of flexibility and creativity.

One of the primary benefits of using object-driven CAD is the flexibility it offers. This approach allows designers to make changes and adjustments quickly and easily, which can be especially useful in industries where design changes occur frequently, such as product design and manufacturing.

When it comes to choosing between dimension-driven CAD and object-driven CAD, the choice often comes down to the specific needs of the project. For projects that require a high degree of precision and accuracy, dimension-driven CAD is often the best choice. For projects that require more flexibility and creativity, object-driven CAD is often the better choice.

Many CAD software programs have incorporated both dimension-driven and object-driven approaches, providing users with the best of both worlds. These hybrid systems allow designers to switch between dimension-driven and object-driven modes as needed, giving them greater control and flexibility in the design process.

The difference between dimension-driven CAD and object-driven CAD comes down to the approach used to create objects. While both approaches have their own unique strengths and weaknesses, choosing the right CAD system for a project ultimately depends on the specific needs and requirements of the project. My personal favorite? Object driven like Solidworks. Made for a child, strong enough for an engineer. I love the creative freedom to create parts by outlining what I think they should look like and then fine tuning dimensions.

If you want to help us pay the bills join our directory of robotics and automation companies.

Robot & Automation Art

Feelin’ Da Power

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🤖 Robotics and Automation 🦾: Taking the Work Out of Workin'

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 14:02:00 +0000

Automation, because let's face it, robots don't have bad hair days, and they always show up on time, unlike some people I know….

Meme of the Day

Automation is Booming

Alright folks, let me tell you something about robotics and automation, it's now mainstream, and you know why? Because technology is advancing faster than a cheetah on fire! And the demand for automation, it's skyrocketing like the stock market in the 90s!

Now, let me break it down for you. Robotics and automation are now mainstream because AI is getting smarter than my ex-wife, machine learning is learning more than my kids, and the cloud is clouding up more information than my Uncle Bob after a few drinks. These advancements have made it possible for robots to do things we never thought possible, like complex decision making, pattern recognition, and even talking like a human, whoa!

And you know what else is driving the growth of robotics and automation? Companies, they want to be more efficient, accurate, and save money, like Scrooge McDuck with his money bin! They're investing in these technologies, like a kid investing in their first stock. Manufacturing, healthcare, retail, logistics, every industry is recognizing the benefits of automation and jumping on the bandwagon. We’re in the middle of some kind of freak economic evolution and robots are to blame.

Now, if you're in the robotics and automation industry, you better listen up. First, stay on top of technological advancements like a cat on a hot tin roof, or you'll be left behind. Keep an eye on emerging technologies, like 5G and the Internet of Things, these things will change the game, like LeBron James in the fourth quarter. You think everything is going great then all of a sudden you’re the old guy in the room talking about rotary phones.

Understand your customers, know what they need and what they want, like an irish bartender knows what drink to make you on a bad day. This requires a deep understanding of the industries and applications where automation is used, and the challenges and requirements that come with it.

Stay attuned to the broader social and ethical implications of robotics and automation, like a mother stays attuned to her baby's cries. Know when it’s time to feed the beast versus putting it to sleep. Think about job displacement, privacy, and the ethics of automation in certain situations, like a lawyer thinks about the law. By doing this, you'll ensure that your products and services align with the broader goals of the industry, like two magnets attracted to each other. But don’t be afraid to be different. Different is now good. Different is now awesome.

So folks, there you have it, robotics and automation are now mainstream and there's no stopping it. Stay ahead of the curve and stay ahead of the competition. Just remember, always stay knowledgeable, like a teacher on the first day of school! Peace out✌️

News of the Day

Here it comes…the US Airforce is looking to automate it’s big cargo jets. If Reliable Robotics can pull it off then it won’t be much longer before commercial airliners will be fully automated too!

U.S. Air Force Awards Large Aircraft Automation Study to Reliable Robotics

Press release content from Business Wire. The AP news staff was not involved in its creation.

apnews.com/press-release/business-wire/politics-business-wire-a16b0b379b5c4aa4b9fec2b23d2a009b

I give him a hard time about Artemis playing second fiddle to Atlas but Dennis Hong is a super sharp guy. My money is that one day he’ll be considered one of the founders of modern day robotics. Check out this article on him and the youtube video. At around 17:25 I started laughing..

UCLA roboticist Dennis Hong rolls out his robot posse in a TEDx talk

“Openness, freedom, trust, having fun and truly believing what you can do to change the world” guide Hong’s new creations.

universityofcalifornia.edu/news/ucla-roboticist-dennis-hong-rolls-out-his-robot-posse-tedx-talk

I’m not a fan of dancing robots, it absolutely annoys me that human brain power is being used to develop robots that can dance. How about stopping world hunger, creating world peace? But if you’re so inclined there will be a debauchery of sorts between Jason Derulo and a bunch of dancing robotic dogs at the Super Bowl this weekend. 🙄

Carl Junction Robots featured at the Super Bowl with Jason Derulo

CARL JUNCTION, Mo. — A Joplin-Area company, Stokes Robotics, is proud to announce that they will have their robots featured at the Super Bowl!

www.koamnewsnow.com/entertainment/television/carl-junction-robots-featured-at-the-super-bowl-with-jason-derulo/article_c246d0f2-a8cd-11ed-b588-e775d1af7d07.html

Ladies and Gentlemen, today's newsletter is brought to you by the letters R-O-B-O-T-I-C-S and the number A-U-T-O-M-A-T-I-O-N!

Quotebeam

Tired of spending hours on the phone, haggling with suppliers for the best deal? Say hello to Quotebeam.com, the one-stop shop for all your procurement woes! Get ready for some serious savings, faster than a cheetah on a trampoline!"

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Random Video

LIDAR of My Life

LIDAR, it's like the ultimate truth detector for robots and self-driving cars!

See, LIDAR works by sending out laser pulses and timing how long it takes for that light to bounce back. With this information, it creates 3D maps that show us what's really going on in the world around us.

And when it comes to autonomous vehicles, LIDAR is like the co-pilot, helping the car navigate roads, avoid obstacles, and always stay one step ahead. It's like having the smarts of a rocket scientist in your car! With LIDAR, you don't have to worry about getting lost, running into other cars, or even hitting a squirrel!

But LIDAR isn't just for cars, it's also revolutionizing the way we map our world. With LIDAR, we can now map large areas of land with incredible accuracy, whether it's the dense forests of the Amazon, the rolling hills of the countryside, or even the rugged coastlines of our oceans. And it's all done without ever leaving the comfort of an office, or bathroom.

And let's not forget about robots! LIDAR is like giving them superpowers, allowing them to see and navigate their surroundings, even in the most hazardous of environments. It's like giving robots the gift of sight! Imagine sending robots into a disaster zone to search for survivors, or sending them into mines to check for hazardous conditions. With LIDAR, robots can now do things that were once considered impossible. But let’s keep them out of the bedroom, I bet those would be some interesting hospital visits.

LIDAR is changing the game in industries from surveying to robotics, and it's not slowing down. It's the future, baby! And LIDAR is leading the way!

LIDAR is like a magic wand for robots and self-driving cars. It's giving them the gift of sight, and it's changing the way we map and navigate our world. So, if you're in the game, make sure you've got LIDAR on your side!

If you want to help us pay the bills join our directory of robotics and automation companies.