Unimate: The OG Industrial Robot
The first industrial robot opened the doors to a world of automation.
Our world has completely changed in less than a century.
Technology has made life easier in many ways. From cars to phones to elevators, daily life looks very different compared to the early 20th century.
Industrial automation is no different. Because of the Unimate, technology has made its way into manufacturing.
Learn more about the Unimate and how you can automate your facility with modern-day robots below!
Unimate, the first industrial robot in history
What is the Unimate?
The Unimate is the first industrial robot ever created in history. Its inventor, Geroge Devol, patented the Unimate in a small Connecticut town in 1961. Similar to the industrial robots of today, it had a single arm designed for repetitive tasks. The arm weighed an impressive 4,000 pounds.
The automation industry was the first to adopt the Unimate for metalworking and welding.
History of the George Devol and the Unimate
Devol drastically changed the way manufacturing processed and produced with his invention.
Devol was born in Louisville, Kentucky on February 20, 1912. He was 9 years old when the word “robot” first appeared, and, supported by a wealthy background and an interest in electricity and machines, he started building the knowledge needed to invent the Unimate.
Rather than going to college, Devol decided to start his own company. His first invention was the automatic door, or the “Phantom Doorman.”
Several years later, after World War II, Devol and his Unimation Corp. company developed a machine called the Programmed Article Transfer, which slowly evolved into a robot: the Unimate.
General Motors adopted the robot on their production lines in Trenton, New Jersey.
Devol continued to bring technology to life over the course of his career. He passed away at 99 years old on August 11, 2011.
How the Unimate changed the world of manufacturing
Thanks to Devol, the Unimate opened the doors for revolution in manufacturing. Industrial robots have been refined and expanded upon since the Unimate’s creation so that manufacturers of any industry can automate their facilities.
The industrial robots of today have far more applications compared to the Unimate’s limited offerings, including but not limited to:
Material handling
Painting
Machine tending
Picking and palletizing
Gluing, sealing, and spraying
Waterjet cutting
Assembly
Additionally, robots have made their way out of manufacturing and into other industries such as medicine. Surgeons use robots to assist with very delicate surgeries, such as head and neck or heart surgeries.
Additionally, hygienic robots have made a breakthrough during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping to keep hospitals, airports, and warehouses clean.
Because of the Unimate, the possibilities are endless for automation to create a brighter, cleaner, more productive future.
How to automate your facility
Are you new to automation, but you feel intimidated by all the options?
Don’t fret! NRTC Automation and our sister company, iGAM, are here to help.
NRTC can build a custom work cell to specifically for your production needs. We will design, build, engineer, and install the robotic work cell for you so all you need to do is turn it on!
With NRTC, automation is simple. We offer financing so you can automate no matter what size or phase you are in. Visit our Financing page to learn more.
iGAM offers standalone industrial robots as well. With top name brands like KUKA, FANUC, and ABB, you can be sure that your production line will be more efficient while reducing downtime on the warehouse floor.
Friendly iGAM Specialists are available to help you find what you need, including robot controllers, robot parts, and other manufacturing equipment. iGAM also provides financing for a pain-free transition to automation.
Need additional support after implementing robots into your facility? NRTC Automation offers full-service solutions to help you meet your production goals. From industrial robot refurbishing to robotic engineering, we’re your source for automation services. Visit our website to see everything we offer!
Together, NRTC Automation and iGAM are here to make automation accessible to all manufacturers. Work with us to start growing your company today.
VISIT NRTC AUTOMATION
NRTC Automation is dedicated to providing high-value industrial automation and manufacturing equipment solutions to all our 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, NRTC Automation is the destination for all your industrial automation and manufacturing equipment services.
Schedule a free consultation with NRTC! We will work with you to create a turnkey automation solution to meet your needs.