Soft Robotics Names AMP Automation as a Preferred System Integrator

Soft Robotics Inc. this week announced that AMP Automation has joined its Preferred System Integrator program. The companies said their partnership will allow for more businesses to benefit from Soft Robotics' food-grade technologies.

“This partnership will allow widespread adoption of robotic automation solutions in the European market as together we drive automation, increase productivity, and ensure product safety in the food industry,” stated Malachy Ryan, senior sales director at Soft Robotics.

AMP builds a range of automation

AMP Automation designs and builds flexible automation ranging from complete bespoke systems to off-the-shelf equipment. The Gainsborough, U.K.-based company has over 130 staffers at a purpose-built 100,000-sq.-ft. factory. The facility includes a programming department, CNC and conventional machining tools, spares department, machine assembly departments, 2D and 3D CAD/CAM software, painting and component finishing facilities, and more.

AMP said it works with both robotics and the latest in linear transport technology to design systems to meet customer needs. The company’s systems can be single-point machines or complete packing lines from primary packaging to palletizing.

“Three or four years ago, we started to focus on automation machinery, and we haven’t looked back since,” said Paul Mann, sales director at AMP Automation. “During this time, we incorporated Soft Robotics' technology and began automating bakery goods, fresh and frozen meats, snacks, fruits, naked or packaged."

"We saw so much potential," he added. "This new technology by Soft Robotics has given AMP more opportunities to win business, and we are planning to double production in the next few years.”

Soft Robotics works with integrators

Soft Robotics designs and builds automated picking systems using proprietary soft robotic grippers, 3D machine vision, and its SoftAI artificial intelligence. The Bedford, Mass.-based company said its products can help solve the hardest piece-picking problems in industries such as food processing, consumer packaged goods (CPG) production, and logistics.

Soft Robotics said its Preferred System Integrator Program is an initiative to help integrators win more business with its technologies, including the mGrip modular gripping system and SoftAI. The company said they enable machine builders to deliver reliable, high-performance singulated and bulk picking solutions for applications that couldn’t previously be automated because of challenges with delicate, variable, or easily damaged objects.

Through this program, integrators can benefit from personalized application support, product training, and growth opportunities with Soft Robotics' network in the food and beverage and CPG spaces. Soft Robotics added that its systems integrator program aims to solve difficult end-user automation problems by connecting members with trusted integrators that have proven track records of success.