Konica Minolta, a company best known for its innovative office printing and 3D printing systems, is now offering its Australian clients improved robotics and automation solutions.

Konica Minolta has partnered with Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR), a leading manufacturer of collaborative mobile robots that help increase efficiency and drive productivity.

Established in Denmark in 2013, MiR has built a global distribution network in more than 40 countries.

The partnership is designed to bring a greater level of automation to Konica Minolta clients in Australia.

MiR manufactures autonomous mobile robots that perform repetitive material handling tasks such as transporting trolleys and goods and moving pallets.

Built-in sensors and cameras combine with market-leading technology so the mobile robot can collaborate safely with humans. No cages or designated human or robot areas are required. 

“Innovation and automation have a significant role to play in manufacturing and distribution environments in Australia. Konica Minolta is excited to bring another level of automation to its customers,” said Martin Keetels, National Manager of Robotics and Innovation, Konica Minolta.

“With Australian businesses requiring greater efficiency to remain competitive in the region, and globally clients are beginning to demand robotic technology. Robotics will be a growth and productivity engine of Australia’s future economy.

“With more than 150 service engineers in-house and the equivalent number in the channel that can potentially service robots, Konica Minolta is in a unique position to prepare our clients for the workplace of the future.”

The partnership was finalised earlier this month during a recent visit by Mr Keetels to MiR’s headquarters in Odense, Denmark.

MiR CEO Thomas Visti took the Konica Minolta executive on an inspection tour of the world class robotics facility.

“I was incredibly impressed by the calibre of MiR’s management team and the market-leading robots.” Mr Keetels said.

Konica Minolta would continue to invest in the robotics sector to deliver the best outcomes for its customers, he said.

“Konica Minolta’s role is to work with robotics companies to support their growth by harnessing its capabilities of distribution, services, and maintenance while our partners continue designing, manufacturing, and supplying the robots.

“Konica Minolta’s robotics capability is just beginning with MiR with many opportunities to extend across different industries and applications in the future.”