More than 20 automation companies are expected to take part in a “Waves of Innovation” event at AT&T Stadium in Arlington November 15—showcasing everything from sanding-and-polishing “cobots” to vision-guided robotic arms picking up items using deep learning algorithms.

Also on tap at the free-to-register event will be demonstrations of automated machine loading, laser marking, and more.

The event is being presented by Portland, Oregon-based Olympus Controls—which has a North Texas office in Lake Dallas. The engineering services company specializes in the integration of motion control, machine vision, and robotic technologies.

Olympus Controls notes that despite Dallas-Fort Worth “adding more than 10,000 manufacturing jobs over the past 10 months, the region still has more job vacancies than applicants.” The company aims to show manufacturers at the event how robotics and automation can deliver benefits such as workforce optimization and increased productivity.

A scene from a previous Olympus Controls Waves of Innovation event. [Photo: Business Wire]

Using robotics to help solve ‘historically low’ labor participation rates

“Historically low labor participation rates in our area means manufacturers are often unable to staff their shifts,” Nick Armenta, regional manager of Olympus Controls, said in a statement. “In Texas, there is currently 0.8 unemployed persons per job opening, a gap that’s especially pronounced in manufacturing.”

Aircraft Tooling Inc., a Dallas-based repair center for the aviation industry, is one of example of a local company that’s taken advantage of robotics efficiency solutions. The company uses a  collaborative robot, or cobots, that can withstand the high temperatures and harsh environment while performing plasma spray processes—a task their employees have now been freed up from performing, Olympus Controls says.

Scott Paulk, an engineering manager with Dallas-based Alexandria Industries, plans to attend the November 15 event. “Knowing what’s out there makes our automation journey easier,” Paulk said in a statement, noting that his company already has 40% of its work centers robotically automated.

“We sometimes struggle with hiring skilled labor,” Paulk added. “Automation helps offset this by enabling us to reallocate resources. Another benefit of robots is they get the younger generation intrigued. This has no doubt led to employees selecting our companies over a potential competitor.”

“Unlike most of the American economy, manufacturing requires your physical presence,” Olympus’ Armenta said. “Knowing the local talent and resources close to you will radically enhance your capabilities. By bringing Waves of Innovation to Dallas, we’re illuminating both the developing and established talent we already have here in Texas.”

For more information about the event including how to register for free, you can go here.

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