Rockwell Automation has recently expanded its foothold in the industrial robotics sector by purchasing Canadian firm Clearpath Robotics. This acquisition, for an undisclosed amount, also includes Clearpath’s research division and its industrial wing, OTTO Motors. Known for developing autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for material handling, OTTO Motors operates in manufacturing and warehouse facilities.
According to Rockwell Automation, this move will enable the company to offer comprehensive autonomous logistics solutions. These new units will now be a part of Rockwell’s intelligent devices division. Clearpath Robotics, under the new ownership, will continue providing tools and services for mobile robotics innovation across various sectors, including mining, military, and agriculture.
In light of these developments, Rockwell Automation cited the firm Interact Analysis, suggesting that the demand for AMRs in manufacturing might surge by 30% annually, reaching $6.2 billion by 2027. From Rockwell’s perspective, this acquisition is not only strategic but could also enhance their fiscal growth by the next financial year.
Blake Moret, Rockwell’s Chairman and CEO, expressed the company’s vision, “This acquisition marks a turning point for our customers around the world. Rockwell is simplifying and transforming the difficult yet critical function of material handling throughout the manufacturing plant with an end-to-end production logistics solution.”
The integration of AMRs represents a significant advancement in industrial automation, bridging gaps in automation infrastructure. Amar Mehta, from EY, highlighted that AMRs are essential for achieving fully autonomous production logistics, reinforcing Rockwell’s position as a leader in integrating AMRs into manufacturing.
