Rockwell Automation, a leading industrial automation supplier, has recently acquired Clearpath Robotics Inc., an autonomous mobile robot (AMR) specialist based in Kitchener, Ontario. The financial details of the acquisition were not disclosed.

Clearpath Robotics’ OTTO Motors Division provides AMRs and fleet management and navigation software aimed at increasing efficiency and reducing costs in manufacturing operations. Their technology ensures that components and subassemblies are in place when needed and transports finished goods to trucks or warehouses upon completion.

The partnership between Rockwell Automation and Clearpath Robotics is expected to simplify and optimize material and product movement within manufacturing facilities. By combining autonomous robots with programmable logic controller (PLC)-based line control, Rockwell aims to fulfill the longtime dream of plant managers in various industries, such as automotive and consumer packaged goods.

Clearpath Robotics was founded in 2009 and initially focused on providing robotics technology for global research and development markets. In 2015, they launched their OTTO Motors Division, which specializes in AMRs.

The deal is set to close in the first quarter of Rockwell’s fiscal year 2024, after which Clearpath will be integrated into Rockwell’s Intelligent Devices operating segment.

Overall, this acquisition strengthens Rockwell Automation’s portfolio in the rapidly growing field of autonomous mobile robots and positions them to provide optimized planning, operations, and workforce management solutions across a wide range of industries.

Sources:
– Rockwell Automation: https://www.rockwellautomation.com/
– Clearpath Robotics: https://www.clearpathrobotics.com/