Describes some of the current research into multi‐arm robots underway at AMARC, University of Bristol, at the theoretical level, defining what constitutes a multi‐arm robot and also at the implementation level. Use is made in the laboratory of a planar, two‐arm experimental robot and a...

Outlines the methods and costs of converting existing robotic systems to new applications and gives research results of software and hardware conversion strategies which speed up re‐configuration. Discusses the trade‐offs between buying new solutions or upgrading old ones, describes the uses...

Planning for collision avoidance is essential in any robot application, but for most single robot cells the ancillary equipment and tooling remain in fixed and known positions relative to the cell and thus collision avoidance strategies can be planned once only, at the start of program...

Describes the ARMA concept, adaptive robotized multifunction assembly cell, as used at CTRI Robotics, a division of Dassault Aviation. The concept evolved in response to the demand for flexibility in automation system design, having recognized the inherent limitations of overspecialized...

Describes a robotic workcell developed to disassemble explosive components, which could present a hazard to humans taking them apart. The task is staightforward for a person but challenging for a robot, there being five primary components to deal with in each case. Provides a description of the...

Describes the development of sturdy tool changes for robots employed in harsh environments such as water and mud, for example in the offshore industry. Various companies offer standard mechanical interfaces between tool and robot but are only intended for use in a clean industrial environment....

Reviews the current use of paint robots in the automotive industry and looks at the further development of robot control which has extended its reach into the area of process control. Summarizes the potential of the developing technologies.

Reports on the proceedings of the 26th ISIR (International Symposium on Industrial Robots) held in Singapore, October 1995 and on the 4th Asian‐Pacific Industrial Automation Exhibition (IA ’95) held in conjunction with it. Subjects included addressing robot technology to service jobs – a...

Reports on the Eurobot exhibition which took place in Frankfurt, Germany in December 1996. States that in spite of being a disappointingly small event with few non‐German exhibitors the exhibition did demonstrate that robotics is still being actively researched. Describes some of the robots on...

Reports on the UK Mechatronics Forum Conference held in Minho, Portugal, in September 1996. Outlines the major themes and focuses on those papers most relevant to industrial robotics, giving brief details of the content of the papers.