Automation UK once again proved to be a highly successful event, drawing a large number of visitors to the CBS Arena in Coventry for its two-day show in June.
The event showcased the latest advancements in automation and robotics, featuring state-of-the-art technologies, captivating demonstrations, and inspiring talks from industry experts. Owned and organized by Automate UK, the show aims to be the leading voice of the UK’s robotics and automation sectors, promoting the critical role of these technologies in the country’s economic growth.
Automation UK has solidified its reputation as a premier event, bringing together renowned suppliers of robotic systems, automation control parts, sensors, and machine safety solutions. These innovations have demonstrated significant benefits in various industries, improving efficiency, productivity, and safety.
The show attracts a diverse array of visitors from sectors including manufacturing, retail, automotive, electronics, engineering, aerospace, maritime, food and beverage, logistics, transport, oil, gas, and nuclear.
Greg Humphreys, Group Warehouse and Distribution Manager at Specsavers, praised the event: “When Vision meets Vision. The event was fantastic, it was exciting to see the technological advancements in vision technology and the potential applications for our global manufacturing and distribution operations. It also provided us with valuable leads and future possibilities as we explore automation and vision technology to enhance our processes.”
The CBS Arena buzzed with activity throughout the two-day event, featuring cutting-edge demonstrations, product launches, seminars, and networking opportunities. This year’s show was a resounding success for exhibitors, visitors, and organizers alike.
Over 50 world-class exhibitors participated, including ABB, Fanuc UK, Festo, Piab, KUKA Robotics UK, Schubert UK, and RARUK Automation. Visitors were also treated to presentations from leading industry speakers. Vanessa Loiola, founder of Valoy Automation, discussed ‘Enhancing Robotic Cell Performance with Strategic Programming Solutions,’ emphasizing modern solutions to optimize robot functionality, reduce downtime, and increase productivity.
Mike Loughran, Director of Intelligent Devices, Software & Control Business – EMEA North Region at Rockwell Automation, delivered another keynote session on the rapid deployment of emerging technologies to support smart manufacturing goals and address challenges in UK manufacturing.
The seminar program covered a wide range of topics, such as deploying MiR robots, AI’s impact on the food industry, time-of-flight sensors in factory automation, and energy-saving techniques using vacuum automation.
Two live panel discussions also drew significant attention. The UK Automation Forum panel, hosted by Gail Hunt from Automate UK, featured experts like Mike Loughran, Chris Rooum, Mike Wilson, Phil Webb, and Oliver Selby. They discussed the impact of skills shortages on business and technology adoption. The BARA panel, chaired by Phillipa Glover, included George Thompson, Martin Kidman, Andrew Mason, and Oliver Selby, focusing on how automation can drive out inefficiencies in manufacturing.
In addition to seminars and exhibits, visitors explored features like the ifm truck showcasing smart sensors, HMIs, controllers, IO-Link technology, and Moneo software solutions. ABB’s YuMi artist, a robot capable of creating a person’s portrait in just five minutes, was another highlight.
George Thompson from BARA remarked, “What’s clear from this year’s Automation UK is that it is really growing as a key show for our industry. There’s been an incredible atmosphere in the hall with all the visitors buzzing around the exciting displays put on by all the exhibitors. We’re grateful for everyone who has participated in this year’s show and we’re looking forward to welcoming even more exhibitors and visitors next year.”
Visitors also had the opportunity to attend the co-located Machine Vision Conference (MVC) while at Automation UK 2024.