A MAJOR new robotics and automation centre has opened in Coventry.
The Robot Experience Centre (REC), launched by research and technology organisation the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) at its Ansty Park headquarters, was officially opened by MTC CEO Graham Hoare OBE and West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker.
Designed to make automation more accessible, the REC allows businesses to explore technologies, test applications using their own products, and assess potential benefits before committing to investment.
It features an automation and robotics area for project development and experimentation, and a collaborative robot development area.
Alongside access to robot and automation technologies, the centre will provide training and support to help businesses build skills, develop confidence and implement automation.
MTC says it will work with industry partners to guide companies from initial exploration through to deployment, and connect potential adopters of robotics with financing providers to help them find suitable funding.
The centre aims to capitalise on the relatively low adoption of robotics among UK manufacturing SMEs.
Graham Hoare, at, said: “The Robot Experience Centre is about helping businesses understand what automation can do for them in a practical and accessible way. For many manufacturers, especially SMEs, the challenge isn’t recognising the potential benefits of robotics – it’s knowing where to start.
“By giving businesses access to testbeds, expertise and training under one roof, we’re helping them to make investments that will improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness, and ultimately, support long-term growth for UK manufacturing.”
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands Combined Authority, said: “If we want to help more businesses in the West Midlands to modernise production, stay competitive and grow, we’ve got to make it easier for them to get the support they need – whether that’s new technology, funding or the right expertise.
“That’s why we’re working more closely with organisations across the region to join things up and provide support that actually works for businesses on the ground.
“We’re already doing that through programmes like the West Midlands Investment Zone Supply Chain Transition Programme, collaborating with partners including the MTC to back manufacturers and help them move forward.
“The Robot Experience Centre is exactly the kind of capability that supports this wider approach, helping more companies see what’s possible, build confidence and take that next step to make the investment they need to grow with confidence.”
Visit www.the-mtc.org/robot-experience-centre for more information.
