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Manufacturing automation is evolving beyond standalone robot installations — and it is long overdue.
Today’s robotics market is defined by flexibility, speed to deployment, AND system-level integration. Robots, accessories, and material handling solutions MUST WORK TOGETHER to improve productivity — without sacrificing adaptability.
As manufacturers face labor shortages, rising customization demands, and tighter production schedules, robotics adoption continues to accelerate. Global robot installations surpassed half a million units annually, and growth is increasingly driven by collaborative robots (cobots), high-speed SCARA systems, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs)—supported by robust accessory ecosystems and experienced automation partners.
At The Knotts Company, we work closely with leading robotics manufacturers and accessory partners to help customers design, deploy, and scale automation solutions that fit real-world production needs.
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Key Robotics Growth Drivers in Manufacturing
1. Flexible Automation for Changing Production Needs
Shorter product lifecycles and higher mix manufacturing require robots that can be reconfigured quickly. Modular robotics platforms and plug-and-play accessories are reducing integration time and increasing ROI.
2. Human-Centered Robotics 
Modern automation is designed to support people, not replace them. Collaborative robots and safety-rated systems allow humans and robots to work side by side, improving ergonomics and consistency while maintaining operational safety.
3. End-to-End Automation Cells
Manufacturers are shifting from isolated machines to connected automation cells that combine:
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robot arms
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end-of-arm tooling and vision
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safety and controls
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internal logistics (AGVs)
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This systems approach delivers greater throughput and more predictable production flow.
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Collaborative Robots:
Fast Deployment, Scalable Results
Collaborative robots (cobots) are often the fastest way to introduce automation on the factory floor. Their intuitive programming, compact footprint, and safety features make them ideal for manufacturers seeking quick wins and long-term scalability.
Universal Robots (UR) cobots are widely used for applications such as:
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machine tending
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pick-and-place
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palletizing
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inspection and quality checks
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When paired with Robotiq offerings —such as adaptive grippers, force sensors, vision solutions, remote monitoring systems, and production-ready solutions (palletizing, machine tending, screwdriving) — UR cobots become application-ready systems that significantly reduce deployment time.
Why it matters: Accessory ecosystems turn cobots into repeatable automation platforms rather than one-off projects.
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SCARA Robots: Speed and Precision Where It Counts
While cobots excel in flexible, people-adjacent tasks, SCARA robots remain essential for high-speed, high-precision manufacturing environments.
Yamaha SCARA robots are commonly used in:
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electronics assembly
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precision insertion
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small-part handling
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packaging and transfer operations
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Their rigid structure and fast cycle times make them ideal for applications where throughput and accuracy are critical.
Why it matters: SCARA robots deliver consistent performance in demanding production environments where milliseconds and microns matter.
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Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs):
Automating Material Flow Between Processes
Even the most efficient production cell can lose productivity if material movement relies on manual handling. AGVs address this gap by automating internal logistics and keeping production flowing.
Global AGV solutions are designed to:
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transport raw materials to production lines
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move WIP between cells
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deliver finished goods to packaging or shipping
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operate safely alongside people and equipment
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Why it matters: AGVs reduce non-value-added labor, stabilize throughput, and enable true lights-out or extended-hour operations.
Featured Solutions from The Knotts Company
🤖 Universal Robots + Robotiq
Best for: Flexible, fast-to-deploy automation
Applications:
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CNC and injection molding machine tending
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Palletizing and depalletizing
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Pick-and-place and kitting
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Quality inspection with vision
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Value: Rapid deployment, easy redeployment, and strong accessory support.
⚡ Yamaha SCARA Robots
Best for: High-speed, high-precision manufacturing
Applications:
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Electronics and component assembly
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Precision insertion
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Small-part transfer
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Packaging operations
Value: Exceptional repeatability, speed, and compact design.
🚚 Global AGV
Best for: Internal logistics and material flow automation
Applications:
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Line-side delivery
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WIP transport
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Warehouse-to-production movement
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Finished goods handling
Value: Reduced labor dependency, predictable material flow, and scalable logistics automation.
💡 The Knotts Advantage: Beyond the Robot 💡
Successful robotics deployment requires more than hardware.
The Knotts Company supports manufacturers with:
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application evaluation
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system design
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product selection
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integration support (3rd party)
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accessory and component expertise
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training
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lifecycle support and manufacturer service
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By combining leading robotics platforms with the right accessories and system knowledge, Knotts helps manufacturers move from individual automation projects to scalable automation strategies.
We at Knotts lead our relationships by the thought,
"If you (the customer) are not successful, then we, in turn, are not successful."
__________________________________________________________________________READY TO AUTOMATE WITH CONFIDENCE?
We are happy to HELP!
Whether you’re exploring your first robotic application or expanding an existing automation strategy, The Knotts Company can help you identify the right robotics solution for your operation.
👉 Talk with a Knotts Automation Specialist
Let's discuss collaborative robots, SCARA systems, AGVs, and complete automation solutions tailored to YOUR manufacturing goals.
Our customized solutions highlight innovative technologies designed to help manufacturers improve performance and stay competitive.
From advanced automation and robotics to motion control and pneumatic systems, we deliver proven solutions that increase efficiency, enhance productivity, and support long-term growth.
Backed by deep industry expertise and personalized service, our team partners with you to implement the right solution for your unique application.
📩Automate@KnottsCo.com 📞#(908) 464-4800
