With the first day of Robotics and Automation 2021 is in full swing, Robotics and Automation spoke to Mark Gray, UK and Ireland manager, Universal Robots…
The two-day exhibition, held on 02-03 November 2021 at Coventry Building Society Arena, aims to provide a unique snapshot of how the industry has reacted to the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as an opportunity for exhibitors to set out their stalls for the challenges that lie ahead.
Name: Mark Gray
Job role: UK and Ireland manager
Organisation: Universal Robots
What is Universal Robots showcasing at this year’s exhibition?
“We’ve got four of our UR5 robots, and we wanted to show all the latest technology end-effectors and how the robots can be programmed simply to help small companies use robotics rather than having to look for something really complicated. The real nature of Universal Robots is to help small companies, SMEs particularly, to transform their business really quickly.”
Who are you looking to speak to and to demonstrate these cobots to?
“Anybody from manufacturers, we think that cobots can fill the labour gap that people are currently experiencing. But traditionally, SME businesses are the ones that have done really well with collaborative robots, because they can implement something with flexibility, and it can turn their business around really quickly.
Following the Covid-19 pandemic, how are you finding exhibiting at a live in-person exhibition once more?
“This is the first time we’ve been to an expo this year. We were very active in doing roadshows before and obviously we’ve had to shift everything online last year, but it’s nice to actually get out and about and meet people again. It’s interesting as well to see all the other exhibitors here.
“The stand turned out fantastically well and all the guys are really eager to get out and see them all talking to customers and it’s gone really well. It is face-to-face business once again and I’ve just met somebody I’ve had Microsoft Teams meeting with for the last 12 months.”
Universal Robots (Stand 422) is at Robotics and Automation 2021 on 02-03 November at the Coventry Building Society Arena. For more details, go to www.roboticsandautomation.co.uk
