Although the case for investment in industrial automation and robotics is strong, in the current climate of corporate belt-tightening, many automation projects don't make it off the drawing board because of the perceived high upfront investment. Oliver Selby, Head of Sales, FANUC UK, reframes the cost of robotics.

From the resistance of a control knob to the feel of a handle, Rencol Components explores how seemingly minor design decisions can have a major influence on perceptions of quality.

Mounting a robot arm on a movable base, known as a 7th axis, adds flexibility, enhances collaboration and provides collision protection. A 7th axis is, however, a high-precision system, and maximising productivity from it requires close consideration of where and how you mount it, and application-specific factors such as the availability of collision detection systems and the number of linear guides used, as the experts at Thomson Industries explain.

John Mackey, Head of Automation Sales, WAGO UK & Ireland, explores the benefits of interoperable technology in automation modernisation.

Machine builders are not only looking for better technology. They are looking for more value across the full machine lifecycle, as the experts at Lenze explain.

New machinery is relatively straightforward to install, but building consistency across multiple facilities is often much harder. Here, Mark Richards, sales manager at Beckhoff UK, explains why standardising automation matters for growing manufacturers.

3D vision technology is transforming automation across industries, enabling more accurate detection, measurement, and interaction with real-world environments. But with several different technologies available, choosing the right solution can be challenging. The experts at OEM Automatic guide us through the options.

As industrial operations become increasingly connected, the rules of cyber security are changing. Success is no longer defined by preventing every attack but by building the resilience to withstand and recover from them. Lee Carter, Industrial Cyber Security Product Manager, SolutionsPT, explores the three steps necessary for industrial cyber resilience and why yesterday's security playbook no longer works.

While some machines require advanced motion control and high-performance hardware, many do not. Here, Karl Walker, business development manager at Beckhoff Automation UK, explains why right-sizing automation can reduce costs and provide a stronger foundation for future growth.

Chris Johnson, managing director of bearing specialist SMB Bearings, explains how selecting heat resistant, sealed bearings can improve reliability in bakery operations.