1997 Robotics Industry Forum
1997 Robotics Industry Forum
The 1997 Robotics Industry Forum, "Emerging markets, emerging technologies" was held at the world class Disney Yacht and Beach Club resort in Orlando, Florida, on October 28-30. The exciting event, sponsored by the Robotics Industries Association (RIA), brought together over 150 professionals in the robotics industry from a multitude of backgrounds that represented end-users, systems integrators, robot manufacturers, research and government agencies, and innovators of new applications. All came to hear the latest in robotic technology and trends and to share their insights. This was RIA's fifth annual Robotics Industry Forum.
"This was the largest and most successful Forum we've held," said Donald A. Vincent, executive vice president of RIA. "Our focus on emerging applications and markets drew rave reviews from attendees."
Phillip M. Disch, General Motors
Opportunities for robotics at the US postal service, in hospital laboratories, and in polishing and buffing operations were among the emerging areas explored at the forum. "We think that the forum gave industry executives a better understanding of new market opportunities, and provided robotics users and potential users with the chance to detail what they need from the robotics industry."
To open the 1997 forum,Phillip M. Disch, executive director, General Motors Corporation, NAO Controls,Robotics & Welding Center, spelled-out some of GMs key needs. He emphasized the importance for more commonality among robots. He told the audience:
"What I'm saying is that we must see some degree of commonality, so that the people who use these technologies on the plant floor our skilled tradesmen and engineers don't have to be encumbered with the differences. Because to tell you the truth, we can no longer afford to spend the time or money required to accommodate those differences. And so those of you who help us get common will win in the long run."
Next year's Robotics Industry Forum will take place at the Buena Vista Palace resort in Orlando on November 4-6, 1998. For more information, contact RIA, North America's only trade association specifically organized for the field of robotics, at 313-994-6088, or at www.roboticsorg.com.
