Precise Automation

Precise Automation, founded in 2004 by robotics industry veterans Brian Carlisle and Dr. Bruce Shimano, specializes in the development of collaborative robots (cobots) and automation subsystems. The founders were instrumental figures at Adept Technology, where they were key in creating the PUMA robot, and brought over 35 years of robotics experience each to their new venture. Their journey reflects a deep-seated expertise in robotics, having previously co-founded Adept in 1983 and grown it into a market leader before starting Precise Automation with a focus on a new generation of automation technology.

The firm designs and manufactures a family of collaborative robots, including SCARA, 6-axis, and Cartesian models, which are engineered for safe human-robot interaction without requiring cumbersome safety barriers. This design principle allows for the automation of processes that were previously impractical, enabling human-robot workflows in a more accessible manner. A key product is the PF3400, distinguished as the world's first collaborative four-axis SCARA robot, which can operate at high speeds while adhering to ISO safety standards for force limitation. Another offering, the PP100, is a collaborative Cartesian robot designed for tabletop applications, emphasizing ease of integration and lower cost. The company's products are delivered fully assembled, designed for quick setup by plugging into a standard AC outlet and an ethernet port, which significantly reduces integration time for end-users and OEM customers.

Precise Automation's business model centers on selling these robotic systems and their proprietary motion controllers, which feature integrated motor drives and vision guidance technology. The company serves a diverse range of end markets, with a strong presence in laboratory automation for applications like drug discovery and clinical diagnostics, as well as in the semiconductor and electronics manufacturing industries. In April 2021, Brooks Automation acquired Precise Automation for approximately $70 million in cash. Following the acquisition, co-founders Brian Carlisle and Bruce Shimano joined Brooks to continue leading the Precise Automation division, which had generated $17 million in revenue in the twelve months prior to the deal.

Keywords: collaborative robots, cobots, laboratory automation, semiconductor automation, SCARA robots, Cartesian robots, 6-axis robots, motion controllers, vision-guided robotics, human-robot collaboration, automation subsystems, Brian Carlisle, Bruce Shimano, Adept Technology, PUMA robot, electronics manufacturing, drug discovery, clinical diagnostics, automated inspection, robotic systems integration, precision motion