Linamar invests in advanced robot drive firm
- Details
- August 11, 2021
Click image to enlargeLinamar Corp. has taken a minor equity position in Netherlands-based automation manufacturer Innovative Mechatronic Systems B.V. (IMSystems) to secure its exclusive place as the manufacturer for IMSystem’s new robot and automation transmission.
The exclusive Global Manufacturing Agreement will see Linamar manufacture the Archimedes Drive transmission system, an assembly module that uses frictional contact instead of gear teeth to transmit torque, resulting in a more efficient and precise gearbox for robots and automation.
"I am very pleased to announce this manufacturing agreement and investment with IMSystems," said Linda Hasenfratz, Linamar's CEO. "This strategic partnership is another great step for us into the opportunistic industrial robotics market, given the growing global trend of industrial automation and the ongoing demand for better, more accurate robotic systems."
Both companies see the technology as accurate, robust, efficient, and scalable than competing technologies. As part of the agreement, Linamar commits to be the manufacturing source for the system once the design is proven and production requires scale up.
The deal leverages Linamar's manufacturing expertise, infrastructure, design for manufacturing capabilities, and supply chain management expertise to allow for rapid commercialization of the Archimedes Drive transmission.
"We are very excited about the interest we have been able to attract from key stakeholders that will ensure IMSystems' long-term success," said IMSystems' CEO Jack Schorsch. "We have brought together a consortium of investors and now a manufacturing partner in Linamar that will significantly contribute to a successful commercialization."
IMSystems' existing shareholders included ABB Technology Ventures and InnovationQuarter (IQ), a regional economic development agency in the Netherlands.