Analysis

Co-operation will focus on robotic intelligence & awareness

7th November 2014
Barney Scott
0

STMicroelectronics and Comau are working together to develop next-gen robots, enabled by ST's control, smart power and sensing products, that maximise energy efficiency and improve factory safety. Cooperating since 2006, the companies' latest efforts focus on research for actuation and sensing to improve both the robot's spatial awareness and its interaction with operators. The ultimate goal of the partnership is to develop a new approach for robotic applications using ST's MEMS technology to give robots true sensing capabilities.

An early result of the ST and Comau collaboration was an innovative robot prototype, in which the electronics were moved onto the robot from the standard rack. This robot, constructed in 2006, used an ST integrated motor-drive module: a mechatronic device designed for industrial electric motors to increase performance and simplify system cabling by offering power, intelligence and real-time connectivity in a single module.

"Smart actuation and sensor fusion are the challenges of next-gen industrial automation," said Nunzio Abbate, System Lab/SPG General Manager, STMicroelectronics. "Our work with Comau has helped us accelerate the introduction of breakthrough technologies in robotics."

Alessio Cocchi, Business Unit Robotics Marketing Manager, Comau, added, "Collaboration between Comau and ST is simply an elective affinity. Our companies and their recognised excellence and commitment to making the world better are naturally - and effectively - working together to successfully deliver cutting-edge technology."

To celebrate the long-lasting and continuing collaboration, Racer, Comau's latest robot and the world's fastest in its class, will be on display in ST's booth (A5.207) at electronica.

Product Spotlight

Upcoming Events

View all events
Newsletter
Latest global electronics news
© Copyright 2024 Electronic Specifier