Signs Your Robot Needs Repair

Production lines rely on industrial robots to keep manufacturing on track and running smoothly. A breakdown or malfunction can put a wrench in production, and cause downtime and a loss of profits. 

Knowing the signs that your robot needs repair can keep things running smoothly and downtime at a minimum.  

Read on to learn what signs to look for that might indicate your robot needs repair.  

WASTING TIME AND ENERGY 

Industrial robots are designed to make a production line more efficient, so if you notice that it might not be performing up to standard, this is a clear indicator that repair or maintenance may be needed. Watch for the robot’s movements and if there seems to be a delay, or if there are unnecessary gestures or motions, diagnosing issues and repairs should be on the docket. 

NRTC Automation runs robots through at least 50 cycles so that we can observe movements, motions, and its ability to repeat each function. Observing this way allows for surface-level errors to be easily spotted, and we can create a checklist to problem shoot based on what errors arise.  

INSPECT THE TEACH PENDANT  

Teach pendants can offer one of the most straightforward indicators of an issue. A teach pendant, or teach box, is the control box for a robot’s programming. They are used to teach a robot the step-by-step processes that it will be required to perform and is usually handheld. Think of it as an educational gaming system.  

If you think there might be an issue with your robot, consult the teach pendant and programming as one of the first steps in troubleshooting. There is valuable information in the system, and if there are any programming errors, they should show up on the pendant’s screen.  

CHECK THE CHARGE 

An easy checklist item when troubleshooting robot issues should be checking the batteries. Something as simple as a low or depleted battery can cause a variety of issues.  

Keeping a robot’s batteries updated should be a part of routine maintenance, and logging install and replacement dates a part of normal documentation.  

OVERHEATING 

Robots and machinery, when running, produce heat, and there are standard temperatures to look for in motors and elements, such as the servo motor. If these are overheating, that can be a sure sign that your robot needs repairs.  

ADDITIONAL TROUBLESHOOTING 

Additional signs of repair to look for include the inability to upgrade properly, a lower than usual number of completed cycles, or connection errors. And when it comes down to it, no one knows your robots better than the people that work on them every day. If you or your employees think there might be a problem, it’s worth looking into it.  

Prevention is Key  

Routine maintenance, planning, and installing timely updates are all key to keeping a robot working at peak performance. NRTC Automation offers not only training but industrial robot refurbishing.  

Reconditioning and refurbishing ensure your robot stays running smoothly and efficiently. Additionally, investing in maintenance and refurbishment is cheaper than replacing it with brand new equipment.  

NRTC Automation robotic training programs work with your team to personalize hands-on training based on your needs and requirements. The end result is an empowered team with the confidence and skills to diagnose and repair robots in-house.  

A Look into the Future: What Will the Robotics Industry Look Like in 10 Years?

The robotics industry is changing at a rapid rate, and the future is looking bright with highly-efficient automation.

The use of robots in and beyond the industrial sector was considered science fiction just a few decades ago. Today, most of what was thought impossible is a reality. Industrial robots have become an integral part of manufacturing processes, shielding humans from dangerous processes and infusing efficiency in the sector.

More companies are continually embracing robotics, making the industry's future much brighter. But it’s not just the big names that are making the industry grow. Contrary to expectations, small companies have played a central role in giving industrial robots various applications.

Read to the end to understand what the future holds for the robotics industry.

Are robots going to take over the world?

No one can effectively have a conversation about robots without discussing whether they will take over the world.

To appreciate the need for this conversation, we must start by acknowledging that robots are all around us. There is no need to look far before noticing it. It starts with basic conversational bots like Siri and Alexa, to complex ones such as those used to assemble vehicles in more than half the time it would take by hand.

Without beating around the bush, robots will replace many human jobs, just like humans and horses were replaced by modern farming equipment. However, in a positive twist of events, humans will play a vital role in adding value to the robotic investment.

Humans and robots are meant to have a complementary relationship. As robots take away repetitive tasks, we will be freed to study and improve our skills for more mind-engaging jobs. The involvement of artificial intelligence is deemed to help us become smarter and improve our decision-making process.

Using robots for factory automation will replace some jobs and create new ones. Some of the positions that are likely to come up include:

Advanced data scientist

• Design thinker

• AI trainer

• Privacy and trust manager

• Virtual reality manager

Additionally, work would be more flexible since people have seamless access to tools and information required for collaboration. In other words, the future of robots does not involve replacing human jobs. On the contrary, the two would jointly work together.

How robots will evolve

With the evolution of robotic technology, it has become possible for robots to learn independently. For instance, the robot could be built now to pick and place items. However, it could use vision to figure out its own programming based on the data gathered.

A key trend to pay attention to is the concept of collaborative robots. These robots can safely work in the same environment as human employees in a shared workspace. The robotic industry is headed to a future where more collaborative robots will be the norm.

The idea behind collaborative robots is to use them on repetitive, menial jobs while employees take care of thought-intensive works. Human worker leverages their problem-solving skills in conjunction with the uptime and accuracy of collaborative robots to ensure top-quality results.

Working collaboratively with humans opens up more opportunities for robotic applications. Due to its potential, the market for collaborative robots will continue growing as more industries appreciate the technology's benefits.

Robot safety will continue to shape the industry's future

Safety is one of the key things that most people sourcing for used industrial robots often consider. There is emerging marketing of safety sensors dedicated to making sure humans can work with robots. Thanks to machine vision, it is gradually becoming possible for robots to "see" activities taking place in their workspace.

Machine vision will continue to play an important part in ensuring robots are involved in different manufacturing processes. Concepts such as multispectral, 3D embedded vision, and hyperspectral imaging are the future of industrial robots. When combined with deep learning and artificial intelligence, industrial robots are empowered to keep pace with human workers.

Companies like FANUC are already making robots that can learn on their own. That shows this bit of the future is more of a reality than a theoretical expectation.

Experts estimate that the robotic industry will register a 175% growth over nine years. That means innovators will continue to try to outdo each other, effectively driving the growth of modern technologies. Such developments will help make collaborative robots safer.

NRTC SUPPORTS THE FUTURE OF THE ROBOTICS INDUSTRY

At NRTC, we focus on reconditioning and refurbishing robots to enhance your production line with affordable industrial automation. We are committed to extending your robot's life while ensuring it operates at the highest level possible. We also design, build, and engineer custom work cells to handle your specific application. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

4 Key Components of a Successful Automated Production Line

Create an effective plan for your production line according to your manufacturing needs with these four basic components. 

The process of automating your production line can be both exciting and intimidating. On the one hand, you are making the effort to grow your business (and your revenue) exponentially with industrial equipment. 

On the other hand, if you don’t have the experience or know-how to automate, it can seem like an insurmountable climb. 

That’s when NRTC Automation steps in to help. Along with our sister company, iGAM, we will help you develop your production line with iGAM’s online industrial marketplace and our comprehensive automation services.

To begin automating, learn more about the anatomy of a great manufacturing line below! 

Anatomy of a great manufacturing line 

A manufacturing line can be broken into four basic components: people, robots, industrial equipment, and data. With a deeper understanding of these four pieces, you can seamlessly connect them and create a production line that works for you. 

People

First and foremost, the people who work with and around your production line are the most important part of success. 

Having a team that is dedicated to constant improvement is crucial to the success of automation, since automation is, at its heart, designed to improve. 

Educate your employees on the processes of automation if they aren’t directly involved in it, and hold weekly and monthly meetings with your technicians, operators, and other manufacturing workers to discuss ways to optimize the production process. 

Above all, ensure that your employees feel that they are necessary for the success of your company. Their confidence and motivation will lay the foundation for a productive and expanding business. 

Robots 

The next component of a successful automated production line includes industrial robots. 

We recommend choosing KUKA robots, FANUC robots, ABB robots, or Yaskawa Motoman robots. They are trusted name brands that have hundreds of thousands of installations worldwide. 

Select an affordable used robot arm that has a high level of repeatability, a payload to carry your specific materials and products, and the correct reach to perform the work you need. 

Also, consider the applications you need for your industrial robots. Do they need to perform arc welding jobs, or will they be a part of packing and palletizing your items? The applications you need will determine the end of arm tooling, or EOAT, you need for your robot. Learn more about common EOATs here. 

Once you have selected your robots, you can move on to the industrial equipment that will support the production process. 

Industrial equipment 

Industrial robots naturally require other manufacturing equipment to run an effective production line. 

Choose industrial machinery that improves energy efficiency, such as servo motors, and protects your equipment from overheating and fires, such as contact blocks and circuit breakers. 

Also, consider adding automatic tool changers to your used robotic arm to speed up the production process and minimize expenses due to downtime. 

While it is not directly related to industrial robots, NRTC Automation also suggests using access equipment such as platforms, stairs, and ladders to prevent injuries from falls in your manufacturing facility. Safety is our priority; it improves worker confidence and productivity while protecting workers from dangerous workplace accidents.

Data 

Last but not least, data is incredibly important to the health of any production line. By tracking and analyzing data, you can trim unnecessary events and optimize your manufacturing process. 

There are several tools you can use to track, view, and manage your data: 

• Human-Machine Interfaces 

• Programmable Logic Controllers 

• Productivity Displays 

Click on the links for each tool to learn more about how these industrial computers will allow you to improve your production line with data. 

All-in-one work cell 

If you want the benefits of automation without the work it takes to set it up in your facility, consider adding a robotic work cell to your production line. 

Robotic work cells are all-in-one automation units that can easily start working on your products shortly after installation. 

We can help you automate your production line with a robotic work cell by designing, building, and engineering a custom cell according to your specific needs. 

Visit our website to learn more about how NRTC Automation can create a customized robotic work cell for your company! 

Watch our YouTube video below to learn more about our automation services. Subscribe to us on YouTube here!

NRTC Automation is dedicated to providing industrial automation and manufacturing services to customers across North America. We are the trusted partner of t...

SET UP YOUR MANUFACTURING LINE WITH NRTC AUTOMATION. 

NRTC Automation is dedicated to providing high-value industrial automation and manufacturing equipment solutions to all its customers.

From decommissioning and tear out to industrial robotic training services to custom flexible work cells, NRTC is the key to integrating your workplace. With personalized training and custom-built designs, NRTC Automation is the destination for all your industrial automation and manufacturing equipment services.

FINANCE WITH US!

NRTC Automation offers financing so you can automate your production line without breaking the budget. Simply fill out the short application and choose the best financing plan from top lenders in the nation. Don't let an upfront investment keep you from growing your company; finance with NRTC Automation today.

Schedule a free consultation with NRTC Automation to learn more about how we can help improve your efficiency, production rate, and revenue growth.

What Do Robotics Engineers Do?

Industrial robotics engineering is a growing profession with a fascinating insight into the advancement of automation. 

To people outside of manufacturing and automation, robots may seem like mysterious sci-fi gadgets that have their own whims and desires.  

But to a robotics engineer, an industrial robot is a mechanical device that requires lots of know-how, patience, and creativity to design, build, and program from scratch.  Robots that perform numerous tasks in manufacturing settings, such as ABB, KUKA, or FANUC robots, are only possible because of the innovative and visionary developments made by robotics engineers. 

NRTC Automation relies on our experienced robotics engineers and technicians to provide the care your industrial robots need to function to the optimum standard. 

Learn more about the background of robotics engineers and their daily tasks below! 

All About Robotics Engineers

Robotics Engineer Stats 

The median salary of an experienced robotics engineer is nearly $100,000 a year. For an interesting job at the frontlines of automation, that is an excellent salary to pique the interest of the next generation of engineers! 

As of 2020, there are approximately 132,000 robotics engineers in the United States. Robotics engineers are expected to experience significant growth in the next decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.  

With the rise of automation in manufacturing, robotics engineers are in high demand and show the growth to prove it. 

For companies that need contracted engineers on their team, the shortage of robotics engineers can be difficult. If you’re struggling to find an engineer that suits your requirements, NRTC Automation can help.  

We’ll scout, interview, and employ engineers for you with our Engineering Services. Contact us if you need trusted and reliable engineers to work for your company. 

Robotics Engineer Education 

Education is a necessary step to achieve a job as a robotics engineer. To become a robotics engineer, the following education is recommended: 

1. A bachelor's degree in engineering is a must. A mechanical engineering or robotics degree is preferred and higher education aids in moving to more advanced positions with higher incomes. 

2. Being involved in robotics groups and organizations helps aspiring robotics engineers to become more adept at designing, building, programming, and debugging robots before they leave university. 

3. Having a well-rounded knowledge base in other areas of STEM such as electronics, physics, and chemistry is important for robotics engineers to perform their jobs. 

4. Robotics engineers are also required to communicate well with their team and with clients, so training in writing and communication is important as well. 

Since robotics engineering is a complex and intricate field, it’s crucial that engineers have an in-depth understanding of the components and machines they’re working with. 

Day-to-Day Life of an Industrial Robotics Engineer 

Robotics engineers have a full day of work since they are responsible for designing, building, and repairing robotics systems. 

These are the detailed daily tasks of an industrial robotics engineer: 

• Develop software programs for robots in industrial environments 

• Design comprehensive automation solutions for manufacturing facilities and factories 

• Repair industrial robots (cleaning, replacing equipment, debugging, etc.) 

• Configure and test robot models 

• Navigate and develop machine learning 

• Evaluate and enhance robot models with new technology 

• Review and determine cost estimates 

• Integrate robotic systems with automation equipment 

As robotics develop and become more advanced, robotics engineers must educate themselves on new technology and understand the needs of manufacturers to provide the best products and services for their customers. 

RECEIVE DEPENDABLE ROBOTICS SERVICES FROM NRTC AUTOMATION. 

With our Engineering Services, we can find qualified and reliable engineers to service your company. We perform an intensive hiring process to pick the best engineers and technicians in the field with several years of experience.  

NRTC Automation also offers industrial robot refurbishing and robotic training. You can choose your level of robot repair service so you can minimize downtime and extend the life of your equipment. Plus, we offer personalized solutions for your company so your employees can work with confidence in their robotics knowledge. 

Contact NRTC Automation today to service your automation. 

4 (Good) Reasons to Learn Programming

Programming seems like a buzzword these days: everyone and their college roommate are learning how to code. 

Why should you learn programming? Well, programming has lots of different applications in many industries, from manufacturing to design. As more processes become automated and move to digital platforms, knowing how to code is an important skill that will boost your resume and ease the transition into a more computerized world. 

Learn more about the reasons you should learn how to program below! 

Reasons to learn programming

1. EASY ACCESS TO LEARNING 

Programming is easier to learn now more than ever. With the proliferation of massive open online courses (MOOCs), how-to coding books, free videos, courses offered by universities for credits, and more, coding is available to the public to learn at their own pace. 

Some people need a schedule to learn and keep them accountable. An online course would be the best option as it provides a week-by-week program with quizzes and tests. Many online courses are free or are available for a minimal charge. Others, like this Harvard Python programming course for AI on edX, offers a professional certificate for completing the course for a slightly higher price tag. These certificates can be useful for job interviews and displayed on LinkedIn. 

If you want to learn to program but don’t want to commit to a full course, you can watch free videos on YouTube, the Khan Academy app, or any other platform that offers free tutorials. This requires more self-discipline, but it is free and flexible to your schedule. 

2. CODING SKILLS ARE VALUED IN INDUSTRIES ACROSS THE BOARD 

Because of the advancement of technology, all kinds of industries need programming in order to carry out essential processes. In 2015, there were over 7 million job openings that required programming as a skill, so clearly having programming knowledge would make you an asset. 

For example, healthcare needs programmers to develop and maintain their large systems of data to avoid breaches and make it easy to navigate for those who need to access the information. In graphic design, coding knowledge allows designers to present ideas and visualizations without relying on a program like Photoshop to do the coding for them. 

Other industries that need programming skills include marketing, business, finance, manufacturing, and of course, technology. By committing to learn programming, you make yourself more valuable to all these industries and more as automation becomes more established. 

3. GETTING THE PROGRAMMER’S MINDSET 

The programmer’s mindset is treated as some sort of mythical worldview, but it just comes down to a few traits that you can cultivate by learning programming. They include: 

• A willingness to learn—continuously 

• Flexibility to change course at any moment 

• Perseverance to complete a project or solve a problem 

• Creative problem-solving skills 

• A keen attention to detail 

• Breaking down complex ideas into simpler terms 

These are the major qualities that contribute to a programmer’s success, but there are even more traits that make up the programmer’s mindset. 

By studying code, you can develop these traits, which enhances more than just your coding skills. The programmer’s mindset will improve your personal and professional life as you apply these traits to your daily routines. 

4. KEEPING UP WITH AUTOMATION 

As we mentioned before, automation is becoming more prevalent in industries across the board. Every day, computers are being built with more intelligent applications and algorithms. Robots are more agile and sensitive than ever before, and they are even making ripples in surgical rooms and nursing homes. 

It’s important to note that over 95% of jobs will not be taken by robots, but they will be changed by the development of technology. For example, both administrative assistants and chief executives will be relieved of monotonous tasks like compiling reports with the advent of artificial intelligence. However, their ability to think creatively, connect with other people, and make important decisions based on both facts and opinions will keep them in the workforce. 

While automation isn’t anything to fear—in fact, robots will keep people safe from dangerous jobs and provide space for more creative and fulfilling work—it is smart to stay ahead of the curve and learn to work with computers and robots rather than against them. 

By learning to code now, you can keep up with the rapid advancements in automation and learn how to use robots and computers for your benefit. 

Programming in Robotics 

Programming is the foundation of robotics. It’s what robots follow in order to carry out every command, from welding materials with torches to simply picking up and moving objects. As code becomes more and more refined, along with better technology and parts, robots will be able to assist with more parts of the production process. 

NEED A PROGRAMMER FOR YOUR ROBOTS? 

Check out NRTC Automation’s robotic engineering services! Our experienced technicians are experts at solving automation issues ranging from simple fixes to advanced diagnostics. We’ll work directly with your team to understand the problem and provide the fastest turnaround possible. Contact NRTC Automation today for more information on how we can assist your company on your way to automation. 

Meet NRTC Automation's Contract Engineering Services Manager, Jason Augsburger!

Meet Jason Augsburger, the Contract Engineering Services Manager at NRTC Automation. With over a decade of experience in automotive integration, robotic programming, and robotic engineering, Jason is an asset to NRTC Automation’s process. 

Learn more about Jason’s background and his work with NRTC Automation below! 

Jason Augsburger, Contract Engineering Services Manager

Background 

Jason entered the workforce with a large automotive integration company in Michigan right out of high school. He obtained a degree in electrical engineering and, after a small recession in 1997, moved into finance, real estate, and insurance. He owned and operated his own company of about 50 employees. 

Ten years later, Jason returned to the automotive industry in 2009. He moved to Alabama and became a contract robot programmer for seven years, in which he then became a robot instructor and robot engineer. 

Work with NRTC Automation 

While working on business development, Jason found NRTC Automation online for contract PLC support. Within a month, he was offered a position. He has managed and evolved NRTC’s engineering services for over a year. 

As the Contract Engineering Services Manager, Jason oversees contract support for the automotive industry. His daily tasks include leading and directing schedules and ensuring support for NRTC Automation’s customers, as well as quoting new requests for employment and project work. 

NRTC Automation’s Engineering Services 

Jason is an expert on NRTC Automation’s engineering services, selecting only the best technicians for our customers. Our technicians are experienced in working with industrial robots and equipment. They provide a range of services, including repair and reconditioning services, robotic programming, and robotic training for companies interested in educating their employees. 

Our customers come from a wide range of industries, including top automotive companies such as Mercedes and BMW. No matter the project, NRTC Automation will deliver trusted robotics programmers, controls technicians, multi-craft support (including mechanical, electrical, robotic, and PLC support), and project management support. 

Our technicians and engineers provide integration and production support. We target engineers and technicians with at least two to five years of experience in the field, with specific experience relating to the customer’s project. 

Because Jason is an industry veteran and understands the needs of our customers, he can screen prospective technicians and engineers with an eye for qualified and reliable individuals. He also implemented a GPS tracking system for timesheets to ensure customers that the job was done on time without ambiguity. 

Jason’s Reflections on NRTC Automation 

For over a year, Jason has watched and contributed to NRTC Automation’s development. We are constantly innovating and implementing strategies to improve our services and customer support. As the company grows, Jason noted, “I’ve never seen a company grow so fast and still maintain quality services... They’re hiring a lot of good people.” 

With a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, NRTC Automation hires the finest experts in the industry, like Jason, to lead our company. Because of our team, we are the preferred partner for industrial and automation services by the world’s top automotive manufacturers, and we continue to meet our goal to provide the best customized solutions for our customers. 

LET NRTC AUTOMATION BE YOUR NEXT INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION PARTNER. 

NRTC Automation is dedicated to providing high value industrial automation and manufacturing equipment solutions to all its customers. From decommissioning and tear out to industrial robotic training services to custom flexible work cells, NRTC is the key to integrate your workplace. With personalized training and custom-built designs, we are the destination for all your industrial automation and manufacturing equipment services. Contact NRTC Automation today to learn more about what we can do for your workplace. 

These 7 Robot Innovations Are Advancing Our World

Robots are making an impact in more than industrial settings. From medicine to entertainment, robots are joining professionals in creating a better world. 

Read more about the way robots are advancing all industries below! 

Innovations in Robotics 

Agricultural Robots 

Agriculture is one of the most important systems in the world. It feeds populations and fuels our ability to move forward. 

Technological advances are the name of the game in agriculture. Before modern times, advancement was slow, with new techniques being developed after several centuries. However, after the Industrial Revolution and the progression of technology, agriculture became more and more streamlined. 

Robots are among the more recent tools used in agriculture. “High tech farming” is the new term for robotic applications in agriculture, and they have plenty of uses.  

For example, weeding is backbreaking work, and new robot designs are managing weeds even around valuable crops. Another type of farming robot is using drone flight technology to survey crop health and plant seeds. 

With robots, farmers can better protect their crops from weeds, invasive species, and disease, as well as plant and harvest more efficiently, which is a win for both farmers and consumers. 

Medical Robots 

The thought of a robot performing brain surgery is intimidating, to say the least. However, these robots are changing the way medical practitioners perform surgery for the better. 

Over 250,000 people die every year due to preventable medical errors. Robots are shrinking that statistic as medical practices are enhanced and reduce surgical errors and risk of infection in patients.  

The daVinci surgical robot works with surgeons to make more precise incisions during procedures using 3D vision and tiny robotic tools that strap onto the surgeons’ arms and wrists. The CyberKnife robot provides hyper-localized radiation treatment to cancerous tumors, preventing exposure of radiation to healthy organs. 

These are just a few of the types of medical robots that are changing the face of medicine. With robots, doctors and nurses can more effectively treat patients. 

Entertainment Robots 

Robots have been used for entertainment in Disney parks since the 1960s, but as robotics become more advanced, their capabilities for shock and awe have skyrocketed. 

Disney is using small animatronic creatures called Vyloo to fascinate children and adults of all ages. They are autonomous and can act independently of their controllers, watching observers as they move and playfully wiggling.  

The Pepper robot by SoftBank Robotics is another example of entertainment, although it is hoped to be used by businesses to redirect customers and answer questions. Pepper can communicate like a human, understanding emotions and tone of voice. Interviews with Pepper show the humor a robot can have. 

Also, the first artificial intelligence robot actor named Erica will star in a $70 million sci-fi movie called b in 2021. 

As robots develop, their ability to amaze us will evolve into even more incredible projects. 

Delivery Robots 

USPS and Amazon Prime have seen a massive increase in home deliveries, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Contactless delivery is increasingly sought after due to pandemic-related worries, and robots are providing the solution. 

Autonomous delivery robots are slowly making their way into delivery services, particularly in food delivery. 

Caregiver Robots 

Caregiver robots seem like an oxymoron: how can a robot care for a human? 

However, robots are becoming increasingly popular in-house and in elderly homes, providing companionship to combat loneliness. 

Loneliness is a bigger threat to the elderly than obesity, a study finds, which exemplifies the importance of companionship. That could be in the form of a family member, a nurse, a pet, or, now, a robot. 

Zora is a new robot caregiver that participates in group activities and games, as well as one-on-one time. Surprisingly, patients adapted quickly to Zora, even treating it with affection by cradling it and telling it about events that they wouldn’t tell their nurses. 

While an advanced robot nurse is still years in development, caregiver robots like Zora may provide the boost elderly patients need to enjoy life in their golden years. 

Cleaning Robots 

In relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, cleaning robots have surged in hospitals, airports, and other high-traffic public areas. 

The Roomba vacuum robot has been a household favorite for years, but more cleaning robots have hit the market in response to the pandemic. In April, in the beginning of the pandemic shutdown in the United States, there was a 24% increase in purchases for self-cleaning robots according to Brain Corp., compared to the previous year. 

Self-driving UV light floor scrubbing robots are taking cleaning to the next level, giving relief to customers that their welfare is being prioritized. 

By automating cleaning tasks, robots are improving our systems for health and safety. 

Manufacturing Robots 

Automation in manufacturing is enhancing production to be faster, more efficient, less wasteful, and cleaner. 

Recent advancements in manufacturing robots have only improved these qualities. For example, additional sensors and process control transmitters have been implemented in robots so they can detect any issues and alert the operator. 

Also, the evolution of data storage and cloud software has secured manufacturing data by separating it from the robot’s software. This prevents security threats and potentially losing important data due to robot failure. 

Advancing robots in manufacturing will provide a better product and make the production process more sustainable and efficient. 

AUTOMATION IS THE ADVANTAGE. 

NRTC Automation is the leader in decommissioning and tear outs for industrial and manufacturing facilities around the world. Our robotics and automation services provide a solution to your company’s needs. From robotics engineering to industrial equipment repairs, NRTC Automation is your next trusted partner in all things manufacturing and automation. Contact us today for more information on what we can do to improve your production line. 

Histories and Profits of 10 Leading Manufacturing Companies Around the World

Since the turn of the 20th century, manufacturing has taken over the global market. Advancements in technology and increasingly efficient manufacturing processes have given the world cars, planes, and robots, to name a few. 

Manufacturing has made access to products and services easier than ever. Learn about some of the leaders in manufacturing with NRTC Automation’s list of 10 manufacturing companies below. 

10 Leading Manufacturing Companies Since 1892 

SAMSUNG 

Samsung is headquartered in South Korea and made over $222 billion in 2019. As a relatively new company, Samsung has climbed the ladder to consistently make the top lists of manufacturing companies in the world. They are traditionally a home appliance and technology store, but they are beginning to focus on B2B demands for electronics. In 2019, Samsung unveiled the “Samsung Bot,” a next-generation AI robot with household capabilities, and they recently celebrated their 50th anniversary. 

GENERAL MOTORS 

In 1908 in New Jersey, William Durant created General Motors. Over the course of a century, General Motors grew into the powerhouse of classic American cars and, as of this year, the first company to produce self-driving vehicles. General Motors saw a revenue of $147 billion in 2019. 

NISSAN 

Nissan is a Japanese automobile manufacturer founded in 1928 with a Japanese translation of Automobile Manufacturing Co., Ltd., and officially joined the stock market in 1933 with its new name, Nissan. The company was the first Japanese automobile manufacturer to win the Deming Prize for engineering excellence in the 1950s and saw a rise in profits throughout the ‘60s and onward. With over $104 billion in revenue and continued innovations on their automobiles, Nissan makes the list. 

TOYOTA 

Toyota was founded over 75 years ago in Japan by Sakichi Toyoda, an inventor who used his funds from his inventions to create the company. Sakichi’s son, Kiichiro Toyoda, took over the business and established the car operations, producing the first Toyota engine in 1934. They changed the name from Toyoda to Toyota to make it easier to pronounce. Toyota cars are known for their dependability, and their $273 billion in revenue proves their reliability. 

VOLKSWAGEN 

Volkswagen was established as the “people’s car” in 1937 in Germany. The factory was initially under Nazi management until the war when the Allies destroyed the factory in an air raid. It was rebuilt under British control and grew rapidly from there. Volkswagen competes with the other top auto manufacturers, pulling in $278 billion in 2019. 

APPLE 

In 1976, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak founded Apple for computers. In less than 50 years, Apple rose the ranks to one of the leading companies in the world. With the event of the smartphone, Apple became a household name and generated a revenue of $266 billion in 2019. 

FORD 

Ford is a classic American company founded in 1903 by Henry Ford, building international fame with his Model T car. Fun fact: Ford also established the assembly line as we know it today, increasing manufacturing productivity to new heights. Ford’s cars were used extensively during both World Wars. In 2019, Ford Motors Company made $160 billion in revenue. 

MICROSOFT 

Bill Gates and Paul G. Allen created Microsoft in 1975, the name of which is inspired by the terms microcomputer and software. They started out with computers and branched out into video game consoles in 2001 with the release of the Xbox. Microsoft was tangled in many legal struggles in its 45-year history, but it continues to lead manufacturing around the world with a $110 billion revenue. 

HONDA 

Honda is known for its cars, but when Soichiro Honda and Takeo Fujisawa founded the company in 1949 in Japan, the first automobile they introduced was the “Dream” D-type motorcycle. Their first car was sold in the United States in 1969 and developed ASIMO, a humanoid robot to assist those with limited mobility. Honda generated over $115 billion in revenue in 2019. 

GENERAL ELECTRIC 

Last but not least, General Electric is the oldest company on this list. It was incorporated in 1892 and became one of the top manufacturing companies in the world with its diverse product range. Consumer products such as home appliances and electronics only make up a small portion of its profit, however; the company’s sales are mostly supported by the U.S. Department of Defense. GE’s revenue in 2019 was $120 billion, continuing to prevail in manufacturing after nearly 130 years. 

THE FUTURE OF MANUFACTURING 

Manufacturing has come a long way in the past century. With the development of cars, airplanes, robots, and more, the world has changed drastically due to manufacturing. Looking ahead to the future, many of the companies on this list are innovating their products to be more sustainable and efficient. With advancements in technology and an increasing awareness of our production, manufacturing has a challenging, yet bright, future. 

NEED SERVICES FOR YOUR GROWING MANUFACTURING BUSINESS? 

NRTC Automation is the leader in decommissioning and tear out services. With over a decade of experience, we are trusted by the top auto manufacturers around the world. NRTC Automation also offers robotic solutions to minimize disruption and downtime in the work area while emphasizing safety, speed, and efficiency. Visit NRTC Automation today for more information on our services.