Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
US Naval Postgraduate School to Demonstrate Mobile 3D Printing for Spare Parts in RIMPAC 2026
The US Naval Postgraduate School’s Consortium for Advanced Manufacturing Research and Education is set to showcase mobile 3D printing capabilities during the Rim of the Pacific 2026 exercise. This initiative will involve deploying advanced manufacturing systems on ships and locations throughout Hawaii to produce and distribute spare parts on demand, significantly reducing wait times for critical components. This mobile, distributed factory network aims to enhance operational efficiency by allowing ships to submit digital requests for spare parts while deployed. By leveraging specialized software, the nearest suitable machine or operator can be identified to either locate or 3D print the required part, which may then be delivered via unmanned drone. This capability is particularly crucial in combat scenarios where traditional supply chains may be disrupted. The RIMPAC 2026 exercise will involve 35 nations, 40 warships, 5 submarines, and over 25,000 personnel, providing a comprehensive platform to test this innovative supply chain solution. The focus will be on evaluating the entire network and delivery process rather than just individual 3D printing capabilities, marking a significant step in military logistics and operational readiness.
Innovation Military
Renault Group Automates Spare Parts Operations with Exotec's Skypod Robots
Renault Group has partnered with Exotec to enhance its spare parts operations across warehouses in France. The integration of Exotec's Skypod robots has reduced order processing time from two hours to just 15 minutes, significantly improving efficiency and customer satisfaction. This transformation is crucial as Renault previously faced challenges in managing the delivery and distribution of replacement vehicle parts in Europe. The new system consolidates over 80% of French business into a single warehouse, allowing for next-day delivery of parts ordered by 5:30 PM, which has resulted in a customer service satisfaction rate exceeding 99.7%. Looking ahead, Renault Group aims to further expand its partnership with Exotec, with plans to deploy 89 Skypod robots in Germany. This marks a significant step as it will be Renault's first automated warehouse in the country, indicating a broader strategy to enhance operational efficiency and meet growing demand in the automotive sector.
Automation Systems and Shuttles eFulfilment Materials Handling Robotic Picking Exotec Renault
Eisenhart Laeppché GmbH Partners with Jungheinrich for Automated Distribution Centre
Eisenhart Laeppché GmbH has commissioned Jungheinrich to construct a fully automated distribution center in Wilhelmshaven, Germany, to accommodate rising order volumes. This new facility will feature an automated miniload warehouse with 14,904 container storage locations and an automated pallet warehouse with 3,870 storage locations, enhancing efficiency and ergonomics in operations. The investment in automation is crucial for Eisenhart Laeppché GmbH as it addresses the limitations of manual order picking and aims to improve working conditions for employees. The integrated solution from Jungheinrich includes advanced warehouse management software and ergonomic workstations, which are designed to support the company's growth and scalability. Looking ahead, the commissioning of the new distribution center is scheduled for the second quarter of 2027. This project reflects a long-standing partnership between Eisenhart Laeppché GmbH and Jungheinrich, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving operational efficiency and meeting increasing demand in the small-parts segment.
AMR and AGV Automation Systems and Shuttles Forklifts and Warehouse Vehicles Materials Handling Storage & Racking WMS & SCM Software
KION opens highly automated spare parts distribution center in Kahl am Main
KION Group has officially opened a state-of-the-art spare parts distribution center in Kahl am Main, a project valued at €90 million. This facility, which features cutting-edge technology from KION's Dematic and Linde Material Handling brands, is designed to improve service quality and bolster supply chain resilience across Central Europe. The new center aims to facilitate quicker and more dependable delivery of spare parts, while also emphasizing sustainability in its operations.
intralogistics supply chain solutions industrial trucks forklift trucks warehouse trucks automation technologyRobotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
Join the RobotToday community on LinkedIn
Daily robotics news, in-depth analysis, conference highlights, and discussions with professionals worldwide.
