Coval Vacuum Technology
French vacuum-automation specialist designing and manufacturing high-performance suction cups, vacuum grippers, and vacuum pumps for industrial handling.
COVAL, founded in 1986 and headquartered in Montélier, France, designs, produces, and markets high-performance vacuum components and systems for industrial automation worldwide. The product range includes suction cups, venturi and electric vacuum pumps, vacuum switches, spring compensators, and complete vacuum grippers such as the CVGC carbon gripper series designed as plug-and-play end-of-arm tools for collaborative robots, and the lightweight CVGL series. COVAL serves packaging, food processing, plastics, and manufacturing industries.
The company operates five international subsidiaries including COVAL Vacuum Technology Inc. in the USA. In 2023, COVAL was acquired by Piab. COVAL is recognized as the French market leader in vacuum management.
Primary type & automation activities this supplier delivers:
CVGC Carbon Vacuum Gripper for Cobots
Plug-and-play carbon vacuum gripper end-of-arm tool designed for collaborative robots.
Contact Coval Vacuum Technology
WEBSITE
https://www.coval-inc.comPHONE
919) 233 4855HEADQUARTERS
United States
Company Facts
Founded
1986
Primary Role
Component Supplier
Company Size
-
Primary Region
North America
Annual Sales
-
Funding Stage
-
Funding Total
-
Exploring the Importance of Laser Marking in Automated Manufacturing Processes
Manufacturing is increasingly embracing automation and connectivity, necessitating efficient processes that align with automated production lines. A significant advancement in this area is the shift towards laser marking for product identification. Unlike traditional labeling or engraving, laser marking provides a permanent solution for marking components, enhancing durability and traceability. The transition to laser marking is crucial as it meets the demands of modern manufacturing, where speed and precision are paramount. This technology not only improves the efficiency of production lines but also ensures that products are easily identifiable throughout their lifecycle. As manufacturers seek to optimize their operations, laser marking stands out as a reliable method for maintaining quality and compliance. Looking ahead, the adoption of laser marking technology is expected to grow as more manufacturers recognize its benefits. Companies will likely continue to invest in this technology to enhance their production capabilities. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Design Engineering Manufacturing automated manufacturing digital manufacturing factory automation
The Impact of Surface Finish on Robot Reliability in Industrial Automation
In the realm of industrial automation, robot failures typically do not stem from sudden, catastrophic events. Instead, issues often originate at contact points such as terminals, busbars, connectors, or components that have endured years of operation in challenging conditions, including humidity, load, and temperature fluctuations. Understanding the significance of surface finish is crucial, as it plays a vital role in the longevity and reliability of robotic systems. A metal surface, despite being a minor part of the overall assembly, can greatly influence performance and durability, particularly in environments where wear and corrosion are prevalent. Looking ahead, it is essential for manufacturers and engineers to prioritize surface finish quality to enhance robot reliability. As automation continues to evolve, the focus on maintaining optimal surface conditions will be critical in preventing failures and ensuring the smooth operation of robotic systems. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Design Engineering aluminium automation systems busbars corrosion resistance
Agility Robotics Unveils Digit 5: A Safe Humanoid Robot Worker for Various Industries
Agility Robotics has announced Digit 5, a humanoid robot designed for safe and efficient work alongside humans. Digit 5 can lift 23 kilograms to a height of 2.1 meters and operates for over 20 hours daily, prioritizing safety by autonomously avoiding falls. This innovative design aims to address the challenges of integrating humanoid robots into the workforce. The significance of Digit 5 lies in its potential to revolutionize labor in manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics. With over $300 million in multi-year customer orders as of May 2026, Agility Robotics is poised to meet the growing demand for humanoid robots that can work safely in close proximity to people. The robot's design focuses on functionality, ensuring that it can perform economically viable tasks while minimizing risks to human workers. Looking ahead, Agility Robotics plans to scale production of Digit 5 following a SPAC merger expected to close soon, aiming to raise over $620 million. The company anticipates that Digit 5 will be available for purchase in the EU and UK by 2027, marking a significant step towards the widespread adoption of humanoid robots in various sectors.
Humanoid Humanoid-robots Functional-safety Safety Agility-robotics
Navigating the Journey from Prototype to Production at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026
TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 will feature a session titled 'From Prototype to Production: Can It Scale in Reality' on the Real World AI Stage. This event will address the challenges startups face when transitioning from prototype to production, emphasizing the need for reliable manufacturing and infrastructure. Industry leaders will share their experiences in scaling technologies beyond controlled environments. The significance of this discussion lies in the diverse paths taken by different industries in moving from promising prototypes to production-ready solutions. Founders will explore how manufacturing capabilities must evolve alongside technology to ensure successful deployment. The session will highlight the importance of consistency and reliability in real-world applications, drawing insights from leaders in space communications and autonomous systems. Attendees can expect to gain valuable lessons from the experiences of speakers like John Mackey of MBRYONICS, Boris Sofman of Bedrock Robotics, and Adrian Macneil of Foxglove. Their insights will provide a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in scaling production across various sectors. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
AI Startups TC TechCrunch Disrupt
Agility Robotics Launches Digit 5 Featuring Enhanced Payload, Rapid Charging, and Advanced Safety Systems
Agility Robotics has introduced Digit 5, a humanoid robot capable of lifting up to 50 pounds and recharging in just nine minutes. This new model includes advanced safety features that allow it to operate closer to humans in industrial settings, reducing the need for physical barriers. The company plans to make Digit 5 commercially available in the EU and UK starting in 2027, marking its first expansion outside North America. The significance of Digit 5 lies in its enhanced capabilities and safety architecture, which were developed based on customer feedback from the previous model, Digit 4. With features such as human detection, safety cues, and independent motion control, Digit 5 is designed to improve collaboration between robots and human workers in factories and warehouses. Agility's CEO, Peggy Johnson, emphasized that this model addresses key barriers to the adoption of humanoid robots in industrial environments. Looking ahead, Agility Robotics anticipates early access to Digit 5 in the first half of 2027, followed by broader availability by the end of that year. The company is also collaborating with Nvidia to integrate advanced safety systems, which could further enhance the robot's functionality in various industrial applications. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
AI AI Funding & Investment AI Use Cases Robotics Agility Robotics Amazon
InOrbit.AI Launches OpenRobOps as ISO 21423 Reference Implementation for Fleet Management
InOrbit Inc. has introduced OpenRobOps, an open-source robot operations and fleet management software aimed at simplifying fleet orchestration for developers. This release marks the industry's first ISO 21423 reference implementation, which is designed to enhance interoperability among mobile robots and fleet managers. The significance of OpenRobOps lies in its potential to help robotics developers avoid the 'build trap' by providing a production-grade foundation that allows them to focus on innovation rather than backend development. According to Florian Pestoni, CEO of InOrbit, this initiative is a contribution to the global robotics community, enabling organizations to bridge the gap between business intent and physical execution. Looking ahead, OpenRobOps is expected to facilitate the adoption of the ISO 21423 standard, which governs communication and data exchange for industrial mobile robots. As the demand for autonomous mobile robots increases, the ability to provide standardized fleet management solutions will be crucial for OEMs and developers in the robotics sector. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) Development Tools / SDKs / Libraries Logistics Mobility / Navigation News Regulatory & Compliance
VulcanForms and Specter Aerospace Collaborate to Enhance U.S. Hypersonic Manufacturing with 3D Printing
VulcanForms and Specter Aerospace have announced a partnership to establish a dedicated manufacturing operation in the U.S. for airbreathing hypersonic weapons. This collaboration aims to address the significant challenge of scaling production for hypersonic systems, which include munitions, interceptors, and cruise missiles. The partnership combines Specter's expertise in hypersonic vehicle development with VulcanForms' advanced metal additive manufacturing capabilities. As demand for hypersonic weapons increases, the companies are leveraging existing production-ready facilities while assessing potential locations for a new dedicated manufacturing site. The planned operation will focus on comprehensive manufacturing and integration processes, essential for producing complete hypersonic weapon systems. The complexity of hypersonic technology necessitates precise manufacturing tolerances and specialized materials, making additive manufacturing a valuable approach. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Military
Hermeus Secures License from Pratt to Produce F100 Fighter Jet Engine
Hermeus has announced a licensing agreement with Pratt to produce engines for the F100-PW-229 powerplant. This move allows Hermeus to vertically integrate the production of its Quarterhorse drone, enhancing its manufacturing capabilities. The partnership is significant as it positions Hermeus as a second source for Pratt's F100 engines, which are critical for various military aircraft. This collaboration could lead to increased competition and innovation in the aerospace sector, particularly in engine manufacturing. Looking ahead, industry observers will be keen to see how this licensing agreement impacts Hermeus's production timelines and the overall supply chain for the F100 engine. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Air Warfare AFA 2026 Air Force Anduril Boeing Defense Innovation Unit
Stratasys Enables GM to Reduce Production Fix Times from Weeks to Hours Using 3D Printing
Stratasys has collaborated with General Motors (GM) to significantly reduce production fix times from weeks to mere hours through advanced 3D printing technology. This innovation allows GM to streamline its manufacturing processes, enhancing efficiency and responsiveness in production. The reduction in production fix times is crucial for GM as it seeks to improve its operational efficiency and reduce downtime in manufacturing. By leveraging Stratasys's 3D printing capabilities, GM can quickly produce necessary parts and components, which is vital in today’s fast-paced automotive industry. Looking ahead, it will be important to monitor how this partnership evolves and whether GM will expand its use of 3D printing technology across other areas of production. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Transportation
Pudu Robotics Accelerates European Expansion Following IFA 2026 Showcase
Pudu Robotics, a Chinese company specializing in commercial service robots, announced on September 14, 2026, that it will accelerate its expansion in Europe following its participation in IFA 2026 in Berlin, Germany. The company is advancing its business strategy across four key areas: service robots, commercial cleaning robots, industrial logistics, and embodied AI, tailored to regional characteristics. The significance of this expansion lies in Pudu Robotics' established presence in over 85 countries, with more than 130,000 robots delivered globally. Europe, encompassing over 20 countries including Germany, France, and the UK, is a strategically important market for the company, facilitating commercial deployment, product validation, and local business development. Looking ahead, Pudu Robotics plans to establish a new European headquarters in Germany to strengthen its organizational structure. This new headquarters will enhance local management, customer service, partner support, and solution implementation functions, further driving the adoption of commercial and embodied AI robots within the European market.
China’s Dexterous Hand Industry, 2026 Part 3 — The Players
Five vendor archetypes, MIR’s composite top ten, eight company profiles and six field deployments — every firm linked to the RobotToday supplier directory.
China’s Dexterous Hand Industry, 2026 Part 2 — The Technology
Linkage, tendon, direct drive or hybrid — and why hardware is converging while the DL1–DL5 manipulation scale decides who wins. Part 2 of 3.
China’s Dexterous Hand Industry, 2026 Part 1 — The Demand Picture
MIR Databank puts China dexterous hand shipments above 30,000 units in 2026, yet only 3.5% of 2025 demand came from factory production. Part 1 of 3.
WRC 2026 Core Components: 137 Robot Parts Suppliers
The third report in the WRC 2026 series. Report 1 mapped all 248 exhibitors by category and Report 2 covered the 139 that build finished robots. This one covers the 137 that build what goes inside them.
Modern Robotics K. M. Lynch & F. C. Park — RSF Top 10 Robot Education Textbooks · No. 8
The book the field agreed to make free: full preprint PDF, video lectures and open code from the authors. Screw theory and kinematics, taught rigorously.
Robotics, Vision and Control Peter Corke — RSF Top 10 Robot Education Textbooks · No. 5
Most books you read; Corke's you run. Every concept ships as executable Python via the open Robotics Toolbox. The code softens the maths.
Integrated Joint Actuators 2026: Technology, Global Suppliers & China's Leap Forward
From rotary joints hitting 530 N·m+ to linear joints with planetary roller screws, integrated actuators are replacing the three-part drivetrain. Full supplier map: Tihu, PhyArc, RobStride, Schaeffler, maxon — and China's path from 1,000-RMB modules to global standard-setter.
Flexiv Launches “Enlight” Platform to Expand General-Purpose Robotics Capabilities
Flexiv unveils the Enlight robotics platform, Orion controller, and MICO system—advancing force-centric, general-purpose robots for real-world applications.
Hoson Tech Enters Humanoid Robotics with Hoson Robot
Hoson Tech expands into humanoid robotics with the Hoson Robot, bringing semiconductor-grade precision and embodied intelligence to real-world automation.
Agibot and Longcheer Technology Forge a New Benchmark for AI Manufacturing
Agibot and Longcheer Technology announce a strategic partnership to advance AI-driven manufacturing and set a new benchmark in integrating intelligent robotics into production processes.
