Hannover Messe USA 2018 featured four main trade shows: Integrated Automation, Motion & Drives USA (IAMD USA) for industrial automation, power transmission and fluid technology; ComVac USA for compressed air and vacuum technology; Industrial Supply USA for industrial subcontracting and supply-chain solutions; and Surface Technology USA for surface treatment and finishing technologies.
The acquisition takes place two months after the OnRobot merger of three robotics companies from the United States, Hungary and Denmark that created one global player with a focus on the market for industrial robot accessories.
AI (Artificial Intelligence), sensorization, connectivity, and IoT (Internet of Things) will be key to optimizing productivity. However, they are currently being held back by conservative attitudes toward data management and connecting machines. This will change as the market pressure mounts.
ASTM International announced its first round of funding to support research that will help catalyze the development of needed standards in additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing.