Demonstrates capabilities at Rockwell Automation Show
IN A strategic move, Rockwell Automation (ROK) completed the acquisition of Clearpath Robotics, the Ontario-based company operating OTTO Motors, a major player in the autonomous mobile robot (AMR) sector. The acquisition, concluded in October, has not only been a significant win for Clearpath but is poised to revolutionize the industrial automation space by offering cutting-edge end-to-end autonomous production logistics solutions.
The latest AMR platforms, constantly updated through software, have positioned OTTO Motors as a leader in innovation. These small footprint robots exhibit remarkable robustness and agility, efficiently handling workloads of up to half a ton in confined spaces. The technology has been tailored to meet the evolving needs of OTTO Motors’ clientele.
Rockwell Automation’s acquisition of OTTO Motors is not only expected to contribute to the company’s fiscal year 2024 revenue growth but also promises significant advancements in connectivity and value creation. The integration of AMRs into manufacturing plants allows Rockwell to lead manufacturers through a comprehensive digital transformation for their production environments.
The growth potential is not limited to revenue impact; it extends to market growth through enhanced connectivity with automation and value creation. The flexibility of the systems and relatively lower costs compared to other industrial robots with similar functions enable manufacturers, logistics operators, and startups to achieve autonomous production logistics efficiently.
Malaya Business Insight was at the 2023 Rockwell Automation Show in Boston and witnessed the prowess of the OTTO AMRs in action. Demonstrations included scenarios where OTTO AMRs transported goods, loaded trucks, and even delivered items like coffee grinds. The software suite, although still integrating with Rockwell Automation’s platform, already includes tools for fleet management, task scheduling, and data analytics, providing real-time tracking, task assignment, and performance insights.
Ryan Gariepy, Chief Technology Officer of OTTO Motors, outlined the differentiators of OTTO AMRs, including modular design, advanced navigation and safety features, integrated fleet management software, scalability, and comprehensive support services. These factors make OTTO AMRs a compelling choice for businesses aiming to automate material handling tasks while enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Clearpath Robotics, now part of Rockwell Automation, boasts over 4 million hours of production experience, with OTTO Motors leading in AMR technology used by Fortune 500 companies. Toyota’s Motomachi plant in Japan utilizes OTTO Motor AMRs to transport parts, improving efficiency and reducing health hazards and accidents.
Blake Moret, Chairman and CEO of Rockwell Automation, expressed excitement about welcoming Clearpath Robotics and OTTO Motors teams to Rockwell, emphasizing that the acquisition marks a turning point for customers worldwide. Production logistics, a critical function, is being simplified and transformed throughout manufacturing plants, offering an end-to-end production logistics solution.
The acquisition, occurring just seven months after Mitsubishi Electric’s strategic partnership with OTTO Motors, underscores the increasing mainstream adoption of AMRs in manufacturing and logistics. It promises increased productivity, reduced costs, and improved safety for industries embracing automation.
