Rockwell Automation has acquired Clearpath Robotics and its industrial division OTTO Motors, integrating autonomous mobile robots into its portfolio. The move signals a transformation in production logistics, optimising efficiency and connectivity across factories.
Rockwell Automation has finalised its acquisition of Ontario-based Clearpath Robotics, a leader in autonomous robotics. The move brings under its umbrella both Clearpath’s research division, which pioneers autonomous technology, and OTTO Motors, its industrial arm dedicated to autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). The acquisition places Rockwell in a commanding position to redefine material handling and production logistics across manufacturing.
”Production logistics is key to optimising operations across an entire facility and bringing the Connected Enterprise to life”
- Blake Moret, Chairman and CEO of Rockwell Automation
Blake Moret, Chairman and CEO of Rockwell Automation, hihglighted the significance of the deal: “We are delighted to welcome the Clearpath Robotics and OTTO Motors teams to Rockwell. This acquisition marks a turning point for our customers around the world. Rockwell is simplifying and transforming the difficult yet critical function of material handling throughout the manufacturing plant with an end-to-end production logistics solution.
”Production logistics is key to optimising operations across an entire facility and bringing the Connected Enterprise to life.”
”Research from Interact Analysis projects that the AMR market will grow by 30% annually over the next five years, reaching an estimated $6.2 billion by 2027”
The integration of AMRs into Rockwell’s ecosystem will give manufacturers a more seamless, automated workflow, bridging gaps in existing factory automation. By enabling real-time, adaptive material handling, AMRs are poised to enhance productivity and safety across industrial operations. The technology will take centre stage at Rockwell’s Automation Fair in Boston, where attendees will witness its impact first-hand.
Rockwell Automation is recognised as a key enabler of efficiency and innovation in the automotive sector, forging partnerships with major manufacturers to modernise production lines and enhance competitiveness.
“Not only do AMRs connect islands of automation; they are often one of the final major elements that help manufacturers achieve autonomous production logistics”
- Amar Mehta, Strategy and Transactions Advanced Manufacturing Leader, EY Americas
At Ford, Rockwell’s smart manufacturing solutions have been instrumental in automating assembly processes and supporting the ramp-up of electric vehicle production. By integrating advanced automation technologies, the company has helped Ford improve productivity, cut costs, and adapt to the shifting dynamics of the automotive market.
General Motors has similarly benefited from Rockwell’s expertise. The deployment of automation systems across GM’s manufacturing facilities has streamlined production, bolstered quality control, and reinforced workplace safety. These innovations have reduced downtime, increased efficiency, and strengthened GM’s ability to compete in an increasingly demanding industry.
Toyota, too, has leveraged Rockwell’s capabilities across multiple projects, from assembly line automation to predictive maintenance and energy optimisation. These initiatives have improved operational efficiencies and cost-effectiveness while also contributing to Toyota’s broader sustainability objectives.
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Autonomous mobile robots are rapidly gaining traction in manufacturing. Research from Interact Analysis projects that the AMR market will grow by 30% annually over the next five years, reaching an estimated $6.2 billion by 2027. Rockwell anticipates that the Clearpath acquisition will contribute an additional percentage point to its fiscal 2024 revenue growth, reinforcing its trajectory in digital transformation.
”Rockwell is a leader in the key hardware, software, and services that are needed to integrate AMRs into a manufacturing plant. With this acquisition, Rockwell enhances its ability to take manufacturers on a full end-to-end digital transformation for their production environments”
- Amar Mehta, Strategy and Transactions Advanced Manufacturing Leader, EY Americas
According to Amar Mehta, EY Americas Strategy and Transactions Advanced Manufacturing Leader, Rockwell’s latest move aligns with broader industry trends: “Not only do AMRs connect islands of automation; they are often one of the final major elements that help manufacturers achieve autonomous production logistics, enabling significant value creation for the manufacturer and their customers.
”Rockwell is a leader in the key hardware, software, and services that are needed to integrate AMRs into a manufacturing plant. With this acquisition, Rockwell enhances its ability to take manufacturers on a full end-to-end digital transformation for their production environments.”
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