A company specializing in the development of advanced automation solutions utilizing collaborative robots has spun off as a sister business of Proco Machinery Inc., a leading manufacturer of automation systems for the blow molding industry.
Cobots Inc., based in Mississauga, Ontario, like its sister company Proco, aims to serve the needs of small- and medium-sized businesses across the packaging industry.
“Our mission is to redefine the way industries operate by providing cutting-edge cobot solutions. We are dedicated to empowering businesses with innovative automation technologies that streamline processes, improve efficiency and elevate workplace safety,” said John McCormick, Proco president and director of Cobots Inc.
McCormick said demand for cobots is strong in the blow molding industry, due to manufacturers’ need for automation, and the efficiency, adaptability, flexibility and simplicity the compact technologies offer. According to a Jan. 8 press release announcing the launch of Cobots Inc., cobots offer an ROI of under a year, making them cost-accessible to small and mid-sized manufacturers.
In an interview with PMM in 2024, McCormick praised the versatility and safety of cobots.
"The development of collaborative robots makes it a lot easier to do this type of automation, and it’s much safer. I feel more comfortable using collaborative robots and putting them in the hands of a shop-floor person," he said. "With collaborative robots, you can design and build without guards. It’s making life easier. It’s making automation more accessible for many companies, and it’s a lot more cost-effective."
Within the blow molding industry, cobots can perform material handling, process assembly, quality inspection and palletizing.
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