Rockwell & Applied Robotics partner to deploy OTTO AMRs

Rockwell Automation has appointed Applied Robotics as its first South Pacific partner for OTTO Motors autonomous mobile robots (AMRs).

Rockwell Automation is further extending its collaboration with Applied Robotics, building on more than three decades of joint work on automation and production projects in manufacturing and materials handling.

OTTO Motors, a specialist in AMRs for manufacturing and production logistics, became part of Rockwell Automation through the acquisition of Clearpath Robotics in 2023. The agreement with Applied Robotics is Rockwell's first such partnership for OTTO Motors in the South Pacific region.

Strategic alignment

Kevin Cole, Market Access Manager, South Pacific at Rockwell Automation, said the partnership aligns closely with both companies' focus on supporting manufacturing efficiency.

"Applied Robotics builds production solutions for manufacturers moving raw materials, through workflows, adding value to create finished goods for sale" explains Kevin Cole, market access manager, South Pacific, Rockwell Automation.

Cole added that AMRs fit into the broader framework of automating manufacturing environments, saying, "AMRs fit neatly into the production logistics framework as they move 'work in progress' around the manufacturing environment."

The appointment follows Applied Robotics meeting several partnership requirements set by Rockwell prior to commencing the collaboration. Cole stated, "To successfully achieve this partnership, Applied Robotics has met rigorous criteria, including comprehensive training, hands-on experience, and successful OTTO Motors deployments."

Building on established cooperation

Applied Robotics has been a Gold OEM partner within Rockwell's PartnerNetwork and has participated in projects such as the AUD $3 million advanced manufacturing laboratory for TAFE Queensland.

Isaac Roach, Chief Operating Officer at Applied Robotics, commented, "This initiative builds on a long and productive relationship with Rockwell. OTTO Motors AMRs add further value to our production line offering."

He highlighted practical deployments in educational and manufacturing settings: "AMRs are at the forefront of automation, and we've already deployed OTTO AMRs at the Queensland TAFE advanced manufacturing lab, so we're excited to build on this with further AMR projects."

An integrated solution

The integration of OTTO Motors AMRs extends Rockwell's automation technology portfolio to encompass the full spectrum of production logistics. Cole described how Rockwell's broader offering fits together for manufacturers:

"Rockwell's Plex smart manufacturing platform manages production workflows while our range of automation solutions enable physical manufacturing tasks and collect key production floor data, and then OTTO AMRs physically move work in process within the manufacturing environment, providing an end-to-end solution."

He continued, "For manufacturers, this means that a comprehensive production logistics solution is available under one roof and backed by global experience with local delivery capability."

Features of OTTO Motors AMRs

OTTO Motors AMRs have been developed with a set of features intended to enhance safety and productivity in manufacturing facilities. The robots integrate high-performance safety technologies, including advanced LiDARs, 3D cameras, and safety switches. They are equipped with an "opportunistic charging" algorithm that allows each AMR to recharge between tasks, supporting uninterrupted movement of materials throughout shifts.

The units are also designed for high speed and throughput, enabling swift manoeuvring around personnel, equipment, and obstacles. To address the demands of manufacturing environments, they carry an all-metal body with industrial-grade components and an electric powertrain.

The new partnership is intended to provide manufacturers in the South Pacific region with access to AMR solutions as part of a broader suite of automation and logistics technologies.