Martin Keetels and Thomas Visti.
Konica Minolta has formed a partnership with Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR), a manufacturer of collaborative mobile robots, to bring a greater level of automation to its clients in Australia.
MiR manufactures robots that are used by companies to transport trolleys and goods in the manufacturing sector and move pallets in the distribution industry. Built-in sensors and cameras combine with technology so the mobile robot can collaborate safely with humans. No cages or designated human or robot areas are required.
National manager of robotics and innovation at Konica Minolta Martin Keetels said: “Innovation and automation have a significant role to play in manufacturing and distribution environments in Australia. Konica Minolta is excited to bring another level of automation to its customers.
“Australian businesses are requiring greater efficiency to remain competitive in the region, and globally clients are beginning to demand robotic technology. Robotics will be a growth and productivity engine of Australia’s future economy. With more than 150 service engineers in-house and the equivalent number in the channel that can potentially service robots, Konica Minolta is in a unique position to prepare our clients for the workplace of the future.”
The partnership was made official on a recent visit by Martin Keetels to MiR’s headquarters in Odense, Denmark. MiR CEO Thomas Visti hosted Martin Keetels during a two-day visit to the innovative facility.
Martin Keetels said: “I was incredibly impressed by the calibre of MiR’s management team and the market-leading robots. It’s a great combination to find in a partner and we are excited by what the future holds.
“Konica Minolta is committed to continued investment in this space through partnerships and by developing internal resources to deliver the best outcomes for its customers. Konica Minolta’s role is to work with robotics companies to support their growth by harnessing its capabilities of distribution, services, and maintenance while our partners continue designing, manufacturing, and supplying the robots.
“Konica Minolta’s robotics capability is just beginning with MiR, with many opportunities to extend across different industries and applications in the future.”