SINGAPORE--Engineers at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) here have developed a robotic system that can autonomously assemble an IKEA chair. The machines feature off-the-shelf components, such as 3D cameras and robotic arms equipped with parallel grippers.

Engineers at Harvard University have developed soft robots that can sense touch, pressure, movement and temperature. The devices feature embedded sensors that were inspired by nature and the human body's sensory capabilities.

For manufacturers, the product-miniaturization trend is kind of a Catch-22. They know that serving a large and ever-expanding marketplace ensures company growth—so long as their robots can precisely place ever-smaller parts into subassemblies, final assemblies or packaging. Specially designed small grippers and vacuum cups have enabled many manufacturers to achieve both goals.

There are many factors that play a role in choosing the proper drive mechanism for your automation equipment.

The choice of pneumatic or electric actuators involves an evaluation of performance, component costs, system costs and productivity gains.

Innovative EOAT—ranging from magnetic grippers to micro tool changers—provides robots with many helping hands.

Introduced in 1983, SCHUNK’s pneumatic “Industrial Hand” became the starting point for gripper development that continues today.

In 1994, Bernd Walter founded Creative Automation Inc. (CAI) to provide turnkey automated equipment for manufacturers. CAI’s initial focus was on gantry robots and pick-and-place machines.

With the correct end-effector and prime mover, manufacturers can make sure their automation system meets exact design requirements and runs at maximum efficiency.