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This paper aims to illustrate how robots can form an efficient, versatile and cost‐effective component in assembly operations.

The applicability of robots is illustrated by two integrated confectionery‐packing solutions, followed by a description of a portioning machine specially developed for floppy meats. The particular advantages of ABB's FlexPicker robot are described.

ABB's Global Partner Programme encourages the use of robots in automation, and such robots can achieve a rapid pay‐back, even in the low‐pay food‐packaging industry.

The paper brings to the attention of assembly engineers the possibility of incorporating robots in the assembly line.

The resolution capabilities of cameras, modern pattern recognition algorithms, and the physical capabilities of robots allow for the creation of machine vision solutions in many production situations. In this paper, examples are given for using vision at various stages of automotive production. Specifically, machine vision is used for robust part inspection, operator part placement verification, 3D robotic guidance, and a combination thereof. These solutions to car‐making certainly suggest other applications in other industries. With new and more versatile robots with more and more sensitive and sophisticated pattern recognition systems, new applications are only limited by the imagination.

Looks at refurbishment services which can increase the life expectancy of robots. The services range from a thorough inspection and cleaning to a complete factory‐certified mechanical reconditioning program. At the same time robots can be upgraded to take advantage of current technological advancements such as new software equipment, accessories and expanded memories. Describes an exchange service where worn robots are immediately replaced by reconditioned units which saves money and minimizes production line disruption. Concludes that refurbishing is an increasingly successful business area that can also offer opportunities for manufacturing companies by either exchanging or buying previously owned robots.

The aim of this chapter is to introduce the reader to the complexities of marketing organization especially in bigger firms. This chapter draws attention to one of these major drivers for change — globalization. This is done with the help of an in-depth case study of ABB Robotics.

The case describes how a change is achieved through a major marketing reorganization process. Initially, there are major difficulties grasping the organizational problem and identifying its causes. Many different organizational “issues” are part of the problem in the multifaceted case. Relying on complexity theory, the case suggests that a more complex environment with greater number of relevant players, which are — themselves — interconnected through networks, will also exhibit a greater range of change. Change and reorganization processes like the one confronting the case company would rather be the normal situation for companies embedded in complex global networks.

Describes how Jaguar Cars in the UK is using robots to manufacture aluminium car bodies for its new XK sports car that is being built in the company's plant in Castle Bromwich, UK.

Describes the major production line techniques that are used in the manufacture of the body‐in‐white structure. These include self‐piercing rivets (SPRs), self‐tapping screws, MIG welding and adhesives.

The use of SPRs and self‐tapping screws are proving essential in the joining of aluminium components manufactured as extrusions, castings and pressings.

The introduction of SPRs and self‐tapping screws, adhesive bonding and MIG welding of cosmetic aluminium skin panels is the result of considerable research work on the part of Jaguar engineers and the company's suppliers, as well as Warwick University. Three of these techniques require the services of robots with their integrated controls. This work is likely to continue in order to reduce cycle times and improve overall product performance, both to the benefit of manufacturer and end‐user – the customer. This paper provides a unique insight into the development of a facility with islands of automation to produce aluminium body shells.

It is likely that arising out of development work into new techniques, processes and standards that will be used throughout the Ford organization, including other companies that form the Premier Automotive Group. Aston Martin, Land Rover and Volvo could all benefit from the technologies developed at Jaguar Cars.

This is the first time Jaguar Cars has used ABB robots in significant numbers to apply SPRs and self‐tapping screws to join aluminium components. ABB robots are also used for body shell inspection and MIG welding aluminum skin panels.

The automotive industry has been the principal driver in the development of robotics; however, as car design becomes more sophisticated, demands on robot makers will continue undiminished.

Describes the development and application of the ABB IRB 140 industrial robot. This robot is characterised by its small size (120cm high) and high load carrying capacity (5kg). Applications covered include welding, die spraying, machine tending and clean room.

Unique dual gantry robots from ABB handle trays and totes of mail at postal sorting centers. Automation has increased the efficiency and accuracy of distributing mail to containers which are used to move the mail on to other post offices or to other sorting stations within the distribution center. One hundred installations already completed by ABB have proven the benefits of robot mail container handling.