Progress TAC
Clyde, Ohio custom automation and robot integrator serving glass, automotive, and appliance industries since 1966; Yaskawa Motoman partner.
Progress TAC (ProgressTAC) is a custom automation and robotic system integrator headquartered in Clyde, Ohio. The company traces its origins to Progress Design and Machine, established in 1966 in Clyde, Ohio, which initially built machines for the crankshaft and camshaft industries. Toledo Automated Concepts (TAC) was separately founded in the late 1980s in Toledo, Ohio, focused on cold-end glass manufacturing for the automotive sector, particularly glass drilling.
In December 1990, TAC merged with Progress, and the combined entity has operated from Clyde ever since. In 1994 the company also acquired Sun Tool, adding legacy machine servicing and upgrades to its portfolio. By 2008, TAC had produced its 500th glass-drilling machine, marking a milestone the company cites as establishing them as world leaders in glass drilling technology.
The combined business has operated as ProgressTAC since 2012. In 2018, a 25,000 square-foot facility expansion was completed at the Clyde campus to accommodate growing project complexity and scale. ProgressTAC delivers turnkey robotic solutions, including robot integration, turnkey assembly cells, material handling and conveyor systems, and special-purpose machinery.
Engineering capabilities span mechanical and controls engineering, with in-house teams that handle design, build, and commissioning. The company is a certified system integration partner for Yaskawa Motoman industrial robots. Industries served include automotive and architectural glass, solar glass, appliance manufacturing, crankshaft and camshaft machining, and machine tending.
ProgressTAC has installed hundreds of fully automated systems in the United States and across 20 foreign countries, making it a globally active integrator with a long-tenured customer base.
Primary type & automation activities this supplier delivers:
Glass Drilling Machine
Automated glass drilling systems for automotive and architectural glass; over 500 units produced, widely recognized as world-leading technology.
Contact Progress TAC
WEBSITE
https://progresstac.comPHONE
419-547-0547HEADQUARTERS
United States
Company Facts
Founded
1966
Primary Role
System Integrator
Company Size
-
Primary Region
North America
Annual Sales
-
Funding Stage
-
Funding Total
-
2026 WRC Highlights Robotics Industry's Shift Towards Data-Driven Intelligence
The 2026 World Robot Conference (WRC) opened in Beijing on August 19, showcasing over 2,000 exhibits from more than 300 companies, including 150 new products. Notable demonstrations included TianGong Omni's pole walking and Yaskawa's cable assembly robots. However, the event highlighted a critical shortage of high-quality training data for robots, with only 22 types of embodiments and over one million real trajectories available publicly. The significance of this shortage lies in the growing demand for robots to prove their capabilities through real-world experience rather than mere demonstrations. The conference emphasized the importance of data-driven embodied intelligence, marking 2026 as a pivotal year for this sector. Companies are increasingly focusing on gathering extensive human behavior data, with Lightwheel Intelligent and JD.com leading efforts to collect millions of hours of data to enhance robotic training. Looking ahead, the robotics industry is witnessing a shift towards creating a robust data ecosystem to support robotic learning. The emergence of companies like Mifeng Technology, which showcased its MEgo Gripper and MEgo View, reflects a trend towards data collection without traditional robotic embodiments. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Robotics Data-Driven Intelligence AI Training Industrial Automation
Galaxy Corporation Envisions Robot Idols as Future K-pop Superstars
Galaxy Corporation is pioneering the integration of physical AI into South Korea's entertainment sector, aiming to create the next generation of K-pop idols. This innovative approach could redefine celebrity culture and fan engagement in the music industry. The significance of this development lies in the potential for robot idols to attract a new audience and reshape the dynamics of K-pop fandom. By leveraging advanced AI technologies, Galaxy Corporation is positioning itself at the forefront of a transformative trend within the entertainment landscape. As the industry evolves, observers should monitor Galaxy Corporation's progress and the public's reception of robot idols. The success of this initiative could influence future investments and innovations in the entertainment sector. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
World Humanoid Robot Games 2.0 Concludes in Beijing with Focus on Real-World Applications
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Collins Aerospace Completes Altitude Testing of Enhanced Power and Cooling System for F-35
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Military
TianGong Robotics' Omni Wins 400m Race at World Humanoid Robot Games
The TianGong Robotics-developed humanoid robot, Omni, has gained attention for its unique running style, reminiscent of the 'Abnormal Titan' from the anime 'Attack on Titan'. On August 23, during the 400m race of the 2nd World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing, Omni recorded a winning time of 45.66 seconds. This victory is significant as it showcases advancements in humanoid robotics, particularly in speed and agility. The robot's running technique, which involves swinging its arms and leaning into turns, has sparked discussions on social media, with users noting its unusual yet effective form. Analysts have pointed out the technical aspects of its movement, suggesting that its design optimizes balance and aerodynamics. Looking ahead, TianGong Robotics aims to utilize the Omni for various applications, including household assistance and monitoring. Additionally, their larger humanoid robot, the TianGong Ultra, made headlines by recording a preliminary time of 9.32 seconds in the 100m event, surpassing Usain Bolt's world record pace, indicating a competitive edge in robotic speed.
Li-S Energy's Lithium-Sulfur Batteries Enter US Army Testing for Drone Applications
Li-S Energy, an Australian battery developer, has delivered lithium-sulfur battery cells to the US Army for independent testing. This marks the first instance of the company's technology being evaluated by a US government agency, specifically by the US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command C5ISR Center at Aberdeen Proving Ground. The significance of this testing lies in the potential for lithium-sulfur batteries to enhance military operations that increasingly depend on drones and autonomous systems. With nearly double the energy density of conventional lithium-ion batteries, these cells could enable unmanned platforms to achieve longer flight times, greater ranges, and increased payload capacities, which are critical for modern military applications. Looking ahead, the evaluation by the DEVCOM C5ISR Center could pave the way for the integration of Li-S Energy's technology into various military programs, including unmanned aircraft and ground robots. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Energy Military
XPeng Motors' Dogotix Secures $900 Million for IRON Humanoid Robot Development
XPeng Motors announced that its Dogotix robotics unit has successfully raised over $900 million in its initial funding round, achieving a post-transaction valuation exceeding $6.3 billion. This funding will be utilized to enhance the development of hardware and software for the IRON humanoid robot, as well as to establish mass-production facilities and expand globally. The significance of this funding lies in XPeng's ambition to become a leader in AI mobility, with plans to produce 1,000 IRON humanoids monthly by the end of 2026. The humanoid robot is designed for applications in retail and industrial environments, with commercial deliveries expected to commence in 2027. This move aligns with a broader trend among automakers venturing into humanoid robotics, highlighting the growing market potential. Looking ahead, XPeng's Dogotix aims to leverage this investment to advance its robotics capabilities, while also facing competition from other automakers like Hyundai and Tesla, who are also developing humanoid robots. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Automotive China Humanoids Investments Manufacturing News
Star Catcher Industries and Aethero Partner to Enhance Space-Based Computing Power
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AI and Robotics Space
Saab Unveils Loyal Wingman Drone Series for Swedish Air Force Development
Saab has announced the development of three unmanned aircraft, designated A1, A2, and A3, aimed at creating a loyal wingman fighter system for the Swedish Air Force. The A1 will serve as a supersonic demonstrator powered by an AI-driven GE F414 engine, while the A2 will include an internal weapons bay. Both models are expected to take flight within the next four years, with the A1 anticipated to fly in just 15 months. The significance of this development lies in its potential integration with the Gripen system, as highlighted by Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson. He emphasized the importance of having an unmanned wingman component that can conduct deep operations alongside the manned platform. The A3 model, which may become the primary sales product, could enter service within ten years, contingent on government funding decisions. Looking ahead, Saab's loyal wingman initiative reflects a broader trend towards mixed squadrons of manned and unmanned assets, as noted by Brig. Gen. Niclas Magnusson. The Swedish parliament is expected to make critical decisions regarding Sweden's fighter aircraft capabilities between 2028 and 2030, with ongoing studies and technology development supporting this initiative.
Air Warfare Air Force CCA collaborative combat aircraft Drones Europe
The Importance of Strategy and Delivery in Digital Transformation for Manufacturing
Manufacturing general managers widely agree that a clear strategy is crucial before embarking on digital transformation initiatives. Many already possess a strategy, which may include a phased roadmap or specific targets like reducing unplanned downtime by 5%. However, successful transformation requires more than just a well-crafted plan; it necessitates effective delivery that engages all stakeholders across various functions. The interplay between strategy and delivery is vital for overcoming operational challenges. A good strategy involves understanding current business operations and capturing insights from stakeholders in production, maintenance, IT, and finance. This collaborative approach helps identify existing problems early, ensuring that all teams share a common understanding of key metrics, such as unplanned downtime, which can vary across departments. To maintain momentum during the delivery phase, dedicated teams should work alongside internal staff, allowing them to focus on operations rather than administrative tasks. Continuous alignment between functions is essential, especially when facing delays or shifting priorities. Ongoing facilitation and technical judgment are necessary to adapt objectives and ensure a successful transformation process.
Factory / Digital Transformation
WAIC Review 2/4: World Models vs. VLA: Robotics' Next 'ChatGPT Moment'
At WAIC 2026, world-model and VLA camps staked rival paths to generalist robots; Zhiyuan, SenseTime and NVIDIA predict a robot 'ChatGPT moment' in 2-5 years.
WAIC Review 3/4: What Scientists and Skeptics Really Think About Embodied AI: The Sober Voices at WAIC 2026
UCL and HKUST researchers, plus robotics CEOs, challenged embodied AI hype at WAIC 2026, citing generalization limits and no third-party evaluation standard.
Humanoid Robot Wire Harnesses Emerge as a Critical System Technology
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FUTURE WARFARE | The Swarm Revolution - Decentralised, Resilient, and Too Numerous to Stop
Inside the drone swarm revolution: Discover how Ukraine’s Swarmer tech, China’s AI formations, and the Pentagon's Orchestrator Prize are reshaping warfare.
FUTURE WARFARE | Cross-Domain Integration - Integration How Land, Sea, Air and Software Are Converging Into a Single Kill Chain
Cross-domain robotics is reshaping modern warfare as drones, UGVs, AI targeting systems, and autonomous logistics converge into a single networked kill chain across land, sea, air, and software.
FUTURE WARFARE | The Economics of Attrition
How the cost equation of modern warfare has inverted: a $500 AI-guided drone now rivals a $2 million precision missile in tactical effect. Part One of the Future Warfare Series examines the unit economics, supply chain realities, and venture capital forces reshaping defence procurement — from Ukraine's 1.7 million FPV drones to Anduril's $30 billion factory-as-weapon bet.
China's Humanoid Robot & Embodied Intelligence Standard System (HEIS 2026)
China's HEIS 2026 framework — the world's first comprehensive national standard for humanoid robots and embodied AI — sets technical specs across six pillars covering AI models, components, safety, and ethics. Here's what every EU and North American robotics manufacturer, integrator, and policy maker needs to know, and why the international standards race is already underway.
iREX 2025: Asia’s Industrial Robotics Engine Shows Its Real Strength—Far Beyond the Humanoid Hype
iREX 2025 revealed Asia’s dominance in industrial robotics, with Japan, China, Korea, and Taiwan shaping the global automation supply chain far beyond humanoid hype.
iRex 2025: Asia Leads Industrial Robotics as Japan and China Reinvent Automantion
iREX 2025 revealed Asia’s dominance in industrial robotics, with Japan, China, Korea, and Taiwan shaping the global automation supply chain far beyond humanoid hype.
Realman Robotics Open-Sources World's First High-Quality Multimodal Real-Robot Dataset
Realman Robotics has open-sourced the world's first high-quality, multimodal real-robot dataset, collected across ten real-world application scenarios at Beijing's humanoid robot data training center. The dataset features hardware-level temporal synchronization, sub-0.5% frame drop rate, and complete modality coverage including joint kinematics, six-axis end-effector force/torque, and calibrated multi-camera imagery.
