The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) today announced that it intends to return to live events this autumn with the Autonomous Mobile Robots & Logistics Conference. It will be held in Memphis, Tenn., from Oct. 12 to 14, 2021. The event will focus on the rise in interest in mobile robots, distribution, materials handling, and e-commerce technologies, said the Ann Arbor, Mich.-based association.
A3 said the show will build on the success of its Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR) event last held in September 2019 in Louisville, Ky., and said it will take precautions against the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are so excited to be back to live events starting in the AMR and logistics space,” stated Jeff Burnstein, president of A3. “While our 2020 virtual event was successful – more than 2,900 registered for our AMR conference last fall—there’s nothing like meeting the leading companies and learning about the new technologies and latest applications in person.”
“We expect the pandemic to be in the rear-view mirror in the U.S. by October and will take all steps necessary to create a safe environment for all of our participants,” he said.
FedEx to provide a peek at facilities
Memphis-based FedEx Corp. has been named the official title sponsor of the conference. The transportation and technology leader is planning to provide select conference attendees with a behind-the-scenes look at some of its local innovation and operations facilities.
FedEx has worked with multiple robotics vendors to develop logistics applications and interoperability standards.
“FedEx was built on innovation, and it continues to be an integral part of our culture and business strategy,” said Rebecca Yeung, vice president of advanced technology and innovation at FedEx. “We see the incredible benefits that next generation innovation brings, and we are excited to support this year’s Autonomous Mobile Robots & Logistics Conference as it brings cutting-edge innovations and hundreds of industry experts to the Memphis area.”
Conference to focus on AMR technology, standards
The conference and exhibits will feature presentations from mobile robot users and suppliers, said A3. In addition, there will be talks and exhibits focused on robot arms, grippers, vision, artificial intelligence, motion control, and related technologies for logistics applications.
In addition, A3 also will discuss its new ANSI/RIA R15.08-1-2020 American National Standard for Industrial Mobile Robots—Safety Requirements—Part 1: Requirements for the Industrial Mobile Robot. It will provide an update on ongoing work on Part 2 of the standard.
“As more mobile robots are used in warehouses, distribution centers, factories and other environments, the development of safety standards to protect people is more important than ever,” said Carole Franklin, director of standards development at A3.
About A3
Around its Automate Forward virtual conference this spring, A3 consolidated the Robotic Industries Association (RIA), AIA – Advancing Vision + Imaging, Motion Control & Motor Association (MCMA), and A3 Mexico to be a single advocate for the benefits of automation. The organization has more than 1,100 members, representing robotics manufacturers, component suppliers, system integrators, end users, research groups and consulting firms from around the world.
A3 hosts a number of events, including Vision Week, the A3 Business Forum, the Automate Show & Conference, and The Vision Show. Registration for the AMR & Logistics conference is now open, as are exhibition opportunities. Contact A3 for more information.
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