HANNOVER MESSE has always been a global player, and with exhibitors and visitors from all over the world that is more true today than ever before. At the same time, the fair is also a showcase for its region, which has traditionally been a hotbed of advanced industrial solutions. This year sees a new company joining the ranks of local exhibitors - and it is certainly in tune with the times. The robot systems of Yuanda Robotics, which are celebrating their world premiere at HANNOVER MESSE 2018, are quite literally "Made in Hannover". However, their innovative technology makes them ideal for use in any industrial environment. "Yuanda Robotics is an outstanding example of the innovative prowess of the region and Leibniz Universität Hannover," says Ulf-Birger Franz, Head of Economics for the Hanover Region. Indeed, the 15 employees at the company learned their craft at the Institute of Mechatronic Systems of Leibniz Universität Hannover. "Spin-offs like these give Hannover a fantastic boost as a powerhouse of robotics and give young talent real career prospects in the region."

Five features help the "ready-to-use" robot really stand out and ensure it can be used in very different branches of industry and industrial environments. The device is sensitive, meaning it can execute delicate, smooth hand movements. It works with "open eyes", using a camera to take in its surroundings and get its bearings. The robot is also intelligent, constantly learning and improving - which includes using the camera function to evaluate images and use them for new tasks. It is intuitive and can carry out certain tasks in collaboration with humans. Finally, it is flexible, with modular hardware and software that ensures it can be assembled in a range of designs. "Feeling, seeing, thinking and understanding - our robots exhibit all these human characteristics and abilities," explains Dr. Jens Kotlarski, Managing Director of the young company, describing the special technology behind the company's product. Officially, the first robots will be available at the end of the year, once the manufacturer and pilot customers have completed the last tests.