A demo bus packed with free-to-learn technology, is one of a range of exciting opportunities awaiting delegates at this year’s North East Automotive Expo.
The vehicle, from NEAA member, Balluff, is embarking on a UK tour and will be stopping at the Expo. Delegates can take advantage of free training on industrial automation solutions, test technologies and learn more about topics such as IO-Link, condition monitoring, predictive maintenance, smart re-ordering systems, process visualization system with SmartLight, RFID systems and other industry applications.
Year-on-year the Expo has set new records as it continues to grow and develop. Taking place on National Manufacturing Day on Thursday 28 September, it will put a spotlight on the future of the sector through the themes of skills and technology, including a showcase from local school, Wardley Primary School.
The Technology Showcase area, which takes a central position in the exhibition hall this year, will demonstrate some of the innovative technology being designed and developed in the region to support the evolution of the automotive sector. Companies taking part include a number of Expo sponsors, as well as automation and robotics experts ADM Automation (iCart), Mobile Industrial Robots, Applied Integration, RARUK Automation, Omron Automation and LC Automation.
The automotive industry is currently experiencing one of its most significant manufacturing revolutions. Not only is it transitioning from traditional automotive manufacturing processes, but it is also witnessing a profound expansion in battery cell manufacturing for electric vehicles (EVs). Amidst this transformative period, Omron Automation emerges as a key player and is empowering automotive manufacturers to capitalise on the latest technologies. Omron will be showcasing cutting-edge solutions at this year’s Expo both in the Technology Zone and on stand C17, including collaborative robots, Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), and advanced vision systems.
Joining Omron is Applied Integration who will have a Bin Picking Application, the MiR250 robot and a Palletizer solution. ADM Automation will feature its iCart systems, which are modular robotic solutions designed to handle industry standard roll cages and pallets, improving the efficiency of intralogistics operations with minimal disruption. In addition, RARUK Automation will be showcasing the aiPRESS electric servo press from IEF-Werner which is typically used for high-precision joining and forming applications as well as a collaborative robot polishing application.
Mobile Industrial Robots will demonstrate the flexible MiR250 AMR with the MiR Shelf Carrier 250 top module fitted, enabling the robot to collect and deliver shelves, carts and other applications. A 21st Century alternative to conventional pneumatic cylinders, LC Automation will also showcase its revolutionary Electrical Actuators. The Nissan Qashqai ePOWER, one of three electrified models currently built at the Sunderland plant, will also be on display in the exhibition hall. Last year Qashqai was the UK’s best-selling new car – the first British built model to win the award in 24 years
The NEAA has partnered with Wardley Primary School in Gateshead to showcase its range of robotics, which is a huge part of the STEM provision at the school. In the last five years, the school has regularly qualified for national finals in both the First Lego League and VEX IQ robotics competitions, which are entered by schools around the world.
The NEAA and industry realise the importance of supporting and working with schools to boost the future talent pipeline as the automotive sector competes for skilled people. Careers in the automotive sector are wide-ranging and continually evolving with the development of new technologies. The sector remains one of the UK’s major employers and this collaboration will enable Wardley School to showcase its talents and make valuable connections with businesses so it can grow its STEM provision. In addition, it will allow students an insight into the world of automotive and its innovation, helping to inspire the next generation of automotive leaders.
Paul Butler, CEO at the NEAA said: “The networking opportunities and business connections have always been a highlight of the Expo and this year’s exhibitors and technology showcases are sure to support this. We are delighted with the support from members, automation and robotics experts who are featuring some impressive equipment in the Technology Showcase area. In addition, we welcome Wardley Primary School to the event to not only demonstrate their robots and STEM projects, but to learn more about the cutting-edge solutions we have in automotive to help boost career interest in the sector.”
Wardley Primary School team became the first primary school from the North East to qualify for the VEX Robotics World Championships in Dallas when they were awarded the Excellence Award and were crowned National Champions at the 2022 UK national finals. Robotics captures the imagination of the children, and all teams show a dedication and resilience that they will need to be successful in their chosen careers.
Daniel Burfield at Wardley Primary School said: “We’re thrilled to be attending this amazing event. It’s such a great opportunity for the children to see first-hand that a whole industry exists around designing and programming robots – something they love. Sadly, the team that competed so successfully at the World Championship in May has now graduated from Wardley Primary School. Our newly formed VEX IQ team has been working hard to develop its robot for this year’s competition. We’re excited about having the opportunity to showcase it at the Expo and make connections with those in the automotive industry.”
