“It's not win or lose; it's win or learn.”
– Jeannie Leavitt
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1. A Deeply Disruptive AI Has Entered the Chat
DeepSeek, a Chinese AI startup, has disrupted Silicon Valley by proving that smaller, cost-efficient AI models can rival expensive U.S. counterparts. Using innovative techniques rather than massive computing power, DeepSeek-R1 challenges the “bigger is better” belief. Its open-source release raises geopolitical concerns and questions about U.S. dominance while also accelerating competition in the AI space. Kudos if you’re buying the stock dip! That’ll certainly help cover the cost of your next gaming GPU.
2. Cobot vs. Robot — Who Wins?
While industrial robots are essential for certain applications, cobots have gained traction over the past decade. But in fisticuffs, a standard robot wins for sure! Right? Since cobots can’t exceed 15 N, I feel like it wouldn’t be close. But for utility? The upcoming “Should I Consider a Cobot or a Robot?” webinar, presented by Weldon (and featuring fellow Tech Report writer Ben Moses!), will explore how they're being used and installed – and which is right for you! Disclaimer: Two robots will not actually fight.
3. IFR’s 2025 Robot Trends
The International Federation of Robotics has valued the market for industrial robots at a record $16.5 billion, with demand driven by AI, automation, and new business models. Because robotics aids efficiency, sustainability, and nearshoring amid global workforce and supply chain challenges, key trends to watch for in 2025 include AI-enhanced robots, humanoids, sustainability-focused robotics, new automation markets (e.g., SMEs, robotics as a service, low-cost robotics), and robots mitigating labor shortages.
4. Should You ‘Can’ Your Old CAM Software?
If your old CAM software lacks support for modern canned cycles, advanced toolpath strategies, or improved simulations, upgrading could significantly boost efficiency, reduce cycle times, and extend tool life. However, if your current software meets your needs and integrates well with your workflow, an upgrade may not be urgent. Assess the cost-benefit ratio before "canning" your old CAM! I’m so sorry; I couldn’t help myself.
5. JDC-Miller Partners With Hexagon
I love that Hexagon gets involved with everything, especially motorsport like IMSA racing. This is a way for a big manufacturing and metrology powerhouse like Hexagon to gain exposure to a passionate fanbase. Sure, they wouldn't do it if there weren’t something in it for them, but stuff like this can drive passion – which is abundant in motorsport – back to manufacturing.
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