Flexibility is key for market leaders in the robotics niche

The global demand for Austria's innovations is so great that FerRobotics is just one of an estimated 160 hidden champions — market leaders in niche sectors. In Upper Austria, the country’s third-largest state, it is really extraordinary. The base is metal and lightweight industries, followed by mechatronics, and it has many important companies investing a lot in R&D. Interview from Country Reports Senior Director, Suzanne Howse with Dr. Ronald Naderer, CEO and Founder of FerRobotics.

One of the interesting achievements of FerRobotics, is equipping robots with sensitivity. Can you explain the comparison made between robots and humans and how do you see the robotics industry evolving in the near future?

Dr. Naderer: Here, at FerRobotics, we prepare robots to become contact-sensitive for operational use. In other words, we provide robots with patented Active Compliant Technology end-effectors (also called end-of-arm tools EOAT), granting them tactile sense. This way, they can do multiple applications in the market that are currently done manually. These surface finishing tasks are usually repetitive and redundant for humans and, in many cases, provide an unhealthy work environment. We can automate these jobs and allow people to work side-by-side with the robot or in positions where they can contribute their skills to the company in other roles. We represent a wellestablished niche company, currently leading our respective market. Austria may not have many large companies, but possesses a rather solid base.

You personally lead the company in many areas. How challenging is that for you?

Dr. Naderer: FerRobotics is distinguished by a very modern structure. We aim for flexibility in terms of structure because we believe that this allows us to make quick, yet effective, decisions. On the other hand, this is also challenging as it means we need self-driven and highly skilled employees to staff our flexible structure—and they are not that easy to find.?However, our open work culture allows qualified individuals to contribute their expertise for mutual success.

Where do you find your talent and what attracts them to you?

Dr. Naderer: Undoubtably, a major source for our company has been the Johannes Kepler University in Linz. There we are able to find many talented people, interested in working for an attractive company, like ours. Innovative and providing quality products. Furthermore, we are very futureoriented regarding our progress in the market of robotics. All the above are major advantages for our company for the purpose of attracting people.

What have been the keys to making your ideas successful in the market?

Dr. Naderer: First of all, we offer high functionality, in the way that the customers value the utility and benefit more than the cost.?User friendly automation of burdened handwork convinces, especially in an era where time and quality count. Additionally to the perfect performance a fine product appearance is indispensable. Perfection is our mantra, thus we are considered a partner, not just a supplier, offering high quality products. On that basis, our strongest clients are original equipment manufacturers in Germany, France, Czech Republic, US, China and Japan. We cooperate with the largest OEMs in the world such as VW Group, Ford, Stellantis, etc. We consider Germany our home market, due to its size and proximity. From there we managed to reach all those international customers, with robotics for the automotive industry, as our starting point.

?“Our strongest clients are original equipment manufacturers in Germany, France, Czech Republic, U.S., China and Japan. We cooperate with the largest OEMs in the world.” - Dr. Ronald Naderer, CEO and Founder, FerRobotics

How do you see the robotics industry evolving in the near future?

Dr. Naderer: Robots still lack the intelligence that is important for some areas; they can neither communicate nor feel adequately. This has been the status for years, even when FerRobotics started in 2006. We develop contact-intelligence alongside the robot, through?tactile sense. Innovative breakthroughs are very important for our company and we aim for them in all of our fields. We wish to be present in all those international markets, providing multiple benefits to our customers. In addition, we can help our partners increase their incomes and create fruitful partnerships.

Are there any exciting projects in the pipeline?

Dr. Naderer: Our vision is to optimize every single aspect of automated physical contact between machine, product and human. Thus, attaining better results in terms of both quality and productivity, as well as to create the optimal conditions for everyone involved in the process. However, we have some very promising projects in the aerospace industry, which has become our second most important market. In addition, there is an ongoing huge potential for us in the U.S. but also in Europe and Asia.

Ronald, it was a pleasure talking to you! Thank you and all the best for the upcoming challenges.

Dr. Naderer: Thank you Suzanna! I am sure to get back to you with stunning news in the near future. A good opportunity to see new products is at one of the trade shows we attend. >> List of upcoming events

Find all infos about the patented and unique surface finishing solutions:

Watch FerRobotics worldwide solutions also on: Youtube.com/ferrobotics