Harnessing Innovation for the Future: Motion Control in Robotics and Automation

At motec, we are passionate about driving technological advancements that transform industries and improve lives. With nearly 40 years of experience in the servo and motion control industry, we have supported countless customers across the UK and globally, providing cutting-edge solutions from leading manufacturers such as Keba, Trio Motion, Axor Industries, and more.??

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Our Role in the Future of Robotics and Automation: During the recent Robotics and Automation Exhibition, I had the privilege of listening to Gordon Baker , a distinguished policy advisor at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). His insights into the future of drone deliveries, AI machine learning, system controls, and autonomous cars were truly inspiring.?

Gordon highlighted some critical areas where innovation is paramount:?

• The potential of self-driving cars and the ambition behind the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CCAV).?

• Supporting farmers with advanced technologies to enhance sustainability.?

• The underappreciated yet significant opportunities in robotics and the need for regulatory levers.*?

Global Robotics Landscape: According to the World Robotics 2023 Report by the International Federation of Robotics, 553,052 industrial robots were installed worldwide in 2022, marking a 5% growth. While 73% of these installations occurred in Asia, Europe accounted for 15%, and the Americas 10%. The UK saw a 3% increase, with 2,534 units installed, highlighting the potential for further growth.?

What Can the UK Do to Improve Robotics and Automation: Our productivity in the UK lags behind major competitors. To address this, we must embrace technology more effectively. Post-Brexit and post-COVID, we've faced significant labour shortages, particularly in manufacturing, with 72,000 unfilled vacancies reported by Make UK.?

Automation and robotics offer a solution to these shortages. As wages rise, including the minimum wage, efficient use of human resources becomes crucial. Automation can help maintain?production levels, create COVID-resilient environments, and support reshoring of manufacturing to the UK.?

Given global supply chain disruptions from events like the Ukraine conflict and Suez Canal blockages, reshoring presents a significant opportunity. To capitalise on this, greater use of robotics and automation is essential, ensuring our manufacturing sector remains competitive, supports jobs, drives R&D, and boosts exports.?

Connecting Expertise with Needs: At motec, we believe that collaboration is key to overcoming challenges and unlocking new opportunities. Our extensive range of motion control products and solutions are designed to meet the diverse needs of industries moving towards greater automation and efficiency.?

Our Solutions Include:?

• Motion Control Components: From single components to full turn-key motion systems.?

• Trusted Suppliers: Partnerships with renowned manufacturers like Lenord+Bauer, Metronix, Fuji-Techno Industries, Tramec, Girard Transmissions, and LAM Technologies.?

• Global Reach: Supporting clients across the UK and around the world.?

Join the Conversation: We are eager to contribute to the UK's innovation landscape by providing the essential components that power advanced robotics and automation. I would love to connect with Gordon Baker and other industry leaders to discuss how we can collaboratively address the barriers and realities faced by the sector.?

Let's work together to make the ambitious vision for robotics and automation a reality. If you have any thoughts or challenges you'd like to share, please reach out. Together, we can improve the future of technology and innovation.? ?

*This is not an official statement of government policy?