Olympus Controls
Motion control, robotics, and machine vision distributor and systems integrator serving western North America
Olympus Controls, founded in 1998 and headquartered in Sherwood, Oregon, is an automation solutions provider and distributor specializing in motion control, robotics, and machine vision technologies. The company has six offices across the western United States and serves as an authorized distributor and integrator for major automation brands including Yaskawa, Epson Robots, and others. For nearly 20 years, Olympus Controls has helped customers design and build motion-centric machines for industrial and collaborative robotic applications.
The company provides design, assembly, integration, and distribution services for industrial and collaborative robot systems, servo drives, machine vision cameras, and related automation components.
Primary type & automation activities this supplier delivers:
Robotiq Palletizing Solution
1-day-deploy end-of-line cobot palletizer up to 30kg and 13 picks/min using Robotiq and UR hardware
Versabuilt CNC Machine Tending
No-programming CNC lathe automation cell letting machine shops mitigate operator shortages
Cobot Welding System
Easy-to-program cobot MIG/TIG welding system with Melton CAP software for welding shops
Kane Finishing Cobot
GRIT-ST collaborative sanding, grinding and finishing system up to 100N force for surface finishing
Bot-in-a-Box
Mobile 4-axis 6kg-payload robot cell with integrated safety and vision for automation beginners and veterans
Contact Olympus Controls
WEBSITE
https://olympus-controls.comPHONE
+1 800-236-0607HEADQUARTERS
United States
Company Facts
Founded
1998
Primary Role
System Integrator
Company Size
-
Primary Region
North America
Annual Sales
-
Funding Stage
-
Funding Total
-
The Role of LiDAR in Enhancing Safety for DJI Drones
DJI has integrated LiDAR technology into its latest consumer drones, including the Air 3S, Mavic 4 Pro, Mini 5 Pro, and Neo 2, primarily to enhance flight safety. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed new regulations that classify certain foreign-made drones with advanced technologies like LiDAR as 'military-grade,' raising concerns for DJI. LiDAR technology provides a significant advantage over traditional cameras, especially in low-light conditions. While cameras rely on ambient light to detect obstacles, LiDAR emits laser pulses to create a detailed map of the environment, allowing drones to navigate safely even at night. This capability is crucial for preventing crashes and ensuring safe returns during flights. As regulatory scrutiny increases, it will be important to monitor how these proposed rules impact DJI and its use of LiDAR technology. The focus on flight safety rather than military applications may shape future developments in drone technology and regulations. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
News
Researchers Develop Language Model System for Personalized Self-Driving Car Requests
Researchers at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) have created a system that allows passengers to influence the driving style of autonomous vehicles using natural language requests. This system utilizes a large language model (LLM) to interpret user instructions, such as adjusting speed or smoothness based on individual preferences, while maintaining safety through a motion-planning algorithm. The significance of this development lies in its potential to enhance user experience in self-driving cars by making them more adaptable to personal preferences. By allowing passengers to communicate their needs in everyday language, the system aims to bridge the gap between human driving styles and autonomous vehicle behavior, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable ride. Looking ahead, the researchers plan to further refine the system and explore its applications in real-world scenarios. The system's interactive nature, which allows for continuous adjustments based on passenger feedback, could pave the way for more personalized and user-friendly autonomous driving experiences. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Autonomous-vehicles Journal-watch Large-language-models
IDS's Nion 3D ToF Camera Enters Series Production for Precision Applications
IDS has commenced series production of its Nion 3D Time-of-Flight (ToF) camera, which delivers high-resolution depth information at 30 frames per second. This capability remains stable even during rapid movements and varying lighting conditions. The introduction of the Nion 3D ToF camera is significant for sectors such as logistics, automation, and robotics, where accurate 3D data is essential for operational efficiency. The camera's performance ensures it can meet the demands of real-world processes, enhancing the functionality of automated systems. Looking ahead, the Nion 3D ToF camera's deployment in various applications will be closely monitored, particularly in environments requiring precise depth perception. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
EPFL Researchers Develop Sound-Powered Miniature Drones Using Helmholtz Resonance
Researchers at the École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) have developed miniature drones powered by sound, utilizing Helmholtz resonance. This innovative approach allows the drones to convert sound waves into propulsive force, enabling controlled motion and navigation. The significance of this development lies in its potential to revolutionize small-scale robotics. By employing hollow structures that act as acoustic resonators, the EPFL team has created devices that can be made extremely small and lightweight, paving the way for advanced designs in robotics and aeronautics. Looking ahead, the researchers envision integrating multiple sound-responsive structures into a single device, allowing for dynamic shape changes in response to sound frequencies. This could lead to the creation of sophisticated aerodynamic robotic devices capable of versatile movements. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
World Humanoid Robot Games Showcase Robots in Precision Task Competitions
The second World Humanoid Robot Games opened on August 22 at the National Speed Skating Hall in Beijing, featuring 666 teams and 2,056 robots from 16 countries, marking a 138% increase in teams and a fourfold increase in robots compared to the first event. The competition includes various precision tasks such as the dexterous hand event, where robots simulate real-world scenarios requiring fine motor skills. Tasks include weighing 20 grams of powder with a tolerance of ±0.5 grams, stacking building blocks, using tweezers to pick up soybeans, and connecting USB cables, all testing the limits of robotic hand-eye coordination and force control. The event emphasizes the importance of autonomous operation, with a scoring system favoring fully autonomous robots over remote-controlled ones. While the performance of autonomous robots exceeded expectations, challenges remain in adapting to variations in object properties and placement. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Humanoid Robots Robotic Dexterity Autonomous Robotics AI Food Service Robotics
Teleoperation Robot State Information Enables Sensorless Force Estimation
A recent study published in the Journal of Field Robotics explores sensorless force estimation techniques utilizing teleoperation robot state information. This innovative approach aims to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of robotic operations in various applications. The significance of this research lies in its potential to reduce reliance on physical sensors, which can be costly and complex to integrate. By leveraging state information from teleoperated robots, the method could streamline robotic systems, making them more accessible for industries that require precise force measurements without extensive sensor setups. Looking ahead, the implications of this study could lead to advancements in teleoperation technologies and their applications in fields such as remote surgery, hazardous material handling, and industrial automation. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
RESEARCH ARTICLE
Hierarchical Path Planning for Construction Robots Using I-Bi-RRT-APF and LLM-DT
The article discusses a novel hierarchical path planning approach for on-board mechanical arm construction robots, utilizing I-Bi-RRT-APF and LLM-DT methodologies. This innovative strategy aims to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of robotic operations in construction environments. The significance of this research lies in its potential to improve the operational capabilities of construction robots, which are increasingly being integrated into various construction processes. By employing advanced path planning techniques, these robots can navigate complex environments more effectively, reducing time and resource consumption. Looking ahead, the adoption of such hierarchical path planning methods could lead to more widespread use of robotic systems in construction. The ongoing development and refinement of these technologies will be crucial for their successful implementation in real-world applications. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
RESEARCH ARTICLE
Multi-Stage Dynamic Positioning Control for Overactuated AUVs Using Active Disturbance-Rejection
The Journal of Field Robotics has published an early view article detailing a novel multi-stage dynamic positioning control method for overactuated Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs). This method employs active disturbance-rejection techniques to enhance control performance in challenging underwater environments. This advancement is significant as it addresses the complexities faced by AUVs in dynamic conditions, improving their operational reliability and efficiency. The proposed control strategy is expected to facilitate better navigation and stability, which are critical for underwater exploration and various marine applications. Future developments in this area will likely focus on refining the control algorithms and testing them in real-world scenarios. Researchers and practitioners should monitor upcoming publications for further insights into the practical applications and performance metrics of this innovative control approach.
RESEARCH ARTICLE
WRC 2026: A Sensor's Two Decades of Support for China's Robotics Sector
The 2026 World Robot Conference (WRC) commenced on August 19 in Beijing, showcasing over 300 exhibitors and more than 2,000 exhibits. Key players like Zhejiang humanoid NAVIAI WA2 and others highlighted the importance of 'embodied intelligence' through measurable physical metrics. The event emphasized the need for advanced sensors, with Yuli Instruments' new C-series six-dimensional force sensors gaining attention for their role in robotics. Yuli Instruments has established itself as a leader in sensor technology, having achieved UL certification and collaborated with ABB for over 15 years. Their products, which include over 1,000 types of sensors, are designed to withstand the demanding conditions of industrial applications. The company’s commitment to a fully autonomous production system and international testing standards has garnered trust from global clients, making it a key player in the robotics supply chain. As the industry evolves, the focus is shifting towards force perception as a critical factor for operational success in robotics. The ability to maintain stability on uneven surfaces and perform delicate tasks without damaging components is becoming essential. The increasing reliance on Yuli Instruments' sensors within the ABB ecosystem indicates a growing recognition of their importance in achieving reliable robotic performance.
Robotics Sensor Technology Industrial Automation Humanoid Robots
Utilizing Digital Twin Technology for Automation Exploration Before Capital Investment
RoboDK has introduced digital twin and offline programming software that enables users to test robots from over 1,400 brands, facilitating the search for optimal automation solutions. This innovation is crucial as manufacturers face challenges in adopting automation due to the complexity of selecting the right robots and peripherals amidst economic uncertainties. The significance of digital twin technology lies in its ability to alleviate the apprehensions associated with initial automation investments. By allowing manufacturers to simulate various robot configurations and layouts, digital twins provide a clearer understanding of potential operational efficiencies and integration capabilities, which is vital for informed decision-making. Looking ahead, companies should monitor the adoption of digital twin software as a strategic tool for automation exploration. This technology not only aids in visualizing robotic systems but also enhances the planning process, potentially leading to more successful automation implementations without the fear of vendor lock-in or inadequate ROI assessments. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Manufacturing Motion Control News Opinion Software / Simulation cnc
