Epson Robots Showcases Collaborative Robot Platform at Automate 2026

Epson Robots is set to preview its upcoming collaborative robot platform and demonstrate SafeSense technology at the upcoming Automate 2026 event. The exhibition, being held from June 22 to 25 at McCormick Place in Chicago, will give attendees their first look at Epson's latest innovation in automation solutions for plastics manufacturers.

Epson Robots is a leading manufacturer of SCARA robots and has been making waves in the industry with its integrated solutions that reduce complexity and accelerate time-to-value. The company's products are designed to make factory automation more accessible, particularly for small and mid-sized plastics manufacturers facing mounting pressure to automate quickly and cost-effectively.

According to Scott Marsic, group product manager at Epson Robots, 'Manufacturers are under increasing pressure to automate quickly and cost-effectively.' He emphasized that Epson delivers integrated solutions that reduce complexity and accelerate time-to-value. The company's portfolio includes compact SCARA robots, integrated feeding systems, and future collaborative solutions.

Among the featured demonstrations will be Epson's SafeSense technology, which is particularly relevant for plastics manufacturers seeking to balance productivity with workplace safety. This sensor-based system detects when operators enter the robot's workspace, enabling high-performance automation while maintaining safe human interaction — a critical consideration for injection molding facilities, packaging lines, and assembly operations where human oversight remains essential.

Attendees can experience SafeSense through hands-on interactive demonstrations that illustrate how the technology maintains operational efficiency without compromising safety protocols. Epson will also demonstrate its IntelliFlex Feeding System, which integrates seamlessly with Epson robots, RC+ Development Software, and vision guidance. The system offers easy setup and configuration with a starting price point under $36,000.

The IntelliFlex system represents Epson's approach to reducing deployment complexity — providing fully integrated solutions developed and supported by a single manufacturer rather than requiring companies to coordinate multiple vendors and platforms. This is particularly beneficial for small and mid-sized plastics manufacturers evaluating automation investments.

For plastics manufacturers operating in space-constrained facilities, Epson will showcase its RS-Series SCARA and N-Series 6-Axis robots. The RS-Series features a 'zero-footprint' design that increases throughput without requiring facility expansion. The N-Series delivers a unique kinematic configuration that reduces required workspace area by up to 40% compared to standard 6-axis robots.

These compact designs address a persistent challenge in plastics manufacturing environments where floor space commands premium value and retrofitting automation into existing production lines requires creative engineering solutions. Epson will also display its high-performance SCARA and 6-Axis portfolio, including the GX-series, T-series, and VT-series robots, which offer precision, speed, and reliability across applications ranging from injection molding part handling to precision assembly and packaging operations.

Beyond hardware demonstrations, Epson is contributing to workforce development discussions through three educational sessions. Marsic will present 'Automation 401: Choosing the Right Automation Tools for the Job' on June 24, from 2:30 pm to 3:15 pm in Room S403ab. The session will explore foundational steps for evaluating and redefining workflows before designing a work cell.

Jim Shimano, product manager at Epson Robots, will lead two sessions focused on robotics education and workforce readiness. His first session, 'From STEM to Staff: Leveraging Robot Software to Teach Concepts for All Levels of Education from High School to Trade School and Beyond,' takes place June 22, from noon to 12:30 pm at the A3 NextGen Theater, Booth 32054.

Shimano will discuss how software-based approaches can expand access to robotics education while reducing costs and hardware-related barriers. His second session, 'Stories from the Lab: How a Software-Centric Approach to Robotics Can Reduce Cost, Stimulate Growth and Mitigate Risk,' is scheduled for June 24, from 1:30 pm to 2 pm at the A3 NextGen Theater, Booth 32054.

Epson will demonstrate its RC+ Development Software, a PC-based environment with an intuitive GUI Builder for custom interfaces. The platform's integrated vision and IntelliFlex capabilities are fully developed and supported by Epson, simplifying deployment for manufacturers. The company will also showcase its PC-based simulation software, which enables scalable robotics education through virtual environments.

By removing the cost and complexity of physical systems, students can learn and program within RC+, with options to transition to physical robots as programs grow — an approach that supports both workforce development and proof-of-concept testing before capital investment. The exhibition will bring together professionals and enthusiasts from around the world to explore the latest advancements in robotics, artificial intelligence, machine vision, motion control, and industrial automation.

Hosted by the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), Automate 2026 is where people can see the incredible technology of robotics and automation up close. The four-day gathering will bring together more than 200 industry experts and feature over 140 specialized conference sessions exploring critical trends transforming the automation landscape.