As a new generation of AI-powered robots moves from labs into the real world, the International Federation of Robotics has released a position paper that looks at the trends, challenges and commercial applications of AI in the robotics industry, Called AI in Robotics, the paper examines how AI is being applied in various sectors including logistics and warehousing, manufacturing and industrial automation, and the service sector. It also considers “physical AI”, which allows robots to train themselves in virtual environments and operate by experience, rather than programming. Topics covered include: How AI is reshaping work; Macroeconomic trends impacting AI; and Safety and security for AI in robotics https://ifr.org/papers/download Online hub offers help on motor controls Mouser Electronics is offering help and advice on choosing and using motor controls via an online resource centre. On the site, the company’s technical team and its manufacturer partners offer a library of articles, blogs, eBooks, and product information. The eBooks provide tools to master motor control, expert insights on how to choose the best motor for an application, what driver and microcontroller options are available, and design challenges that you might encounter. https://resources.mouser.com/motor-control White Paper rethinks VSD-based poultry ventilation ABB Drive Products has released a White Paper to help poultry farmers and systems integrators to modernise ventilation strategies for better efficiency, reliability and animal welfare. Called From scepticism to strategy: Rethinking poultry ventilation, the paper maps out the main challenges, such as inconsistent airflows, and addresses scepticism surrounding the reliability of VSDs in poultry applications. It outlines how intelligent fan control can deliver consistent environmental conditions while lowering energy use and risk, with paybacks of 12–24 months for layer operations, and 18 –30 months for broiler farms. https://campaign-mo.abb.com/FBMythsExplained/ Rethinkingpoultryventilation Report sets out how UK could be a leader in GaN devices A new White Paper from the Compound Semiconductor Applications (CSA) Catapult sets out how the UK could play a leading role in the next major shift in power electronics, as demand surges for smaller, faster and more energy-efficient high-voltage systems. The report focuses on vertical gallium nitride (GaN) – an emerging technology with the potential to outperform silicon-based devices. Vertical GaN devices switch on and off faster with lower losses, improving efficiency. The high-power GaN device market could reach $1.5bn within five years. https://csa.catapult.org.uk/gan-report 48 n NEW PRODUCTS n DESIGN DATA AND MULTIMEDIA March 2026 www.drivesncontrols.com Parker Hannifin has released a software update for its PSD servodrives that adds new control modes, advanced synchronisation functions and performance optimisations designed to improve throughput, accuracy and system efficiency. The update introduces torque and force control modes for push, press and winding apps. New gearing and synchronisation capabilities extend the drives’ dynamic capabilities, such as “cuton-fly” and continuous handling. www.parker.com Bühler has extended its bMotion modular drive platform to include 40mm and 51mm motor sizes, in addition to the existing 63mm. The platform, available in the UK from Electro Mechanical Systems (EMS), offers a range of motors, gearheads, encoders, brakes and controllers that can be mixed and matched to suit an application. The two new motor sizes will give engineers more choice, enabling them to better tailor drive systems, achieve greater performance-to-cost ratios and shorten project timelines. www.ems-limited.co.uk IFR examines the use and impacts of AI on robotics Werma has announced a signalling system that allows users to split light patterns into several segments and display machine status more precisely. For example, the LineLight Fusion Segment system can signal two states or process phases simultaneously – such as “operation” or “material required”. In addition, an automatic scaling function is available, allowing process steps or progress to be displayed. The flush-mounting system can integrate displays of machine status into a machine’s surface. Its IP54-protected design prevents dirt build-up on edges, and prevents the ingress of dust or liquids. An optional loud buzzer can provide acoustic warnings. There are two versions: a 200mm model that offers a choice of continuous lighting, or splitting it into two 100mm segments; and a 300mm version with up to three light segments – one providing continuous light, and two or three where the colours are controllable. One light can replace several signal modules, simplifying installation, cabling and maintenance. The modules can be screwed into place or attached using adhesive tape. Werma 01536 486930 www.werma.co.uk Acorn Industrial Services is offering a series of six-beam couplings from Ruland Manufacturing with bore sizes up from 4–25mm, and angular misalignment capabilities up to 7 degrees. The D-series couplings provide higher torsional stiffness than single- or four-beam couplings, while maintaining high misalignment compensation. The couplings have two sets of three helical cuts with a wide slot, allowing for high axial misalignments. Their length makes them ideal for applications with a wide distance between shaft ends. The couplings are manufactured from 2024-T351 bar stock, using proprietary processes. They have an anodised finish for improved corrosion resistance. Potential applications include encoders, positioning systems, robotics and automation equipment, where accuracy and reliability are critical. Acorn Industrial Services 0800 8766 441 www.acorn-ind.co.uk/ruland Segmented signalling system displays machine status more precisely Six-beam couplings provide higher torsional stiffness
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