Industrial automation company Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK) has announced the successful rollout of its first autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) from its new production line at its global headquarters in Milwaukee. This milestone marks a key step for the company’s OTTO by Rockwell Automation division, which was formed following Rockwell’s 2023 acquisition of Clearpath Robotics.
The new 25,000-square-foot production space at Rockwell’s Milwaukee campus will be responsible for assembling the OTTO 600 and OTTO 1200 AMRs, which are designed to move heavy materials safely and efficiently across factory floors and in confined spaces. These robots aim to reduce reliance on manual forklifts, improving safety, minimizing product damage, and increasing operational efficiency in manufacturing environments.
“The expansion strengthens our portfolio of advanced material handling solutions and reinforces our leadership as the largest industrial automation company producing AMRs in the U.S.,” said Robert Buttermore, Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer at Rockwell Automation. “This facility is also an example for our customers of how these technologies can transform operations by enhancing safety and productivity.”
The OTTO 600 and OTTO 1200 AMRs feature laser scanners that scan their surroundings more than 30 times per second, allowing them to build a virtual map of their environment. The robots communicate with one another to track their locations, even around corners, ensuring smooth and coordinated movement. Each OTTO AMR undergoes a 15-mile driving test to verify its operational readiness before being shipped to customers.
Rockwell’s decision to expand AMR production to Milwaukee is part of a broader strategy to enhance manufacturing resiliency. While Clearpath and OTTO will continue AMR production in Ontario, Canada, the Milwaukee facility will offer increased production capacity and bring Rockwell’s manufacturing operations closer to U.S. customers.
The Milwaukee facility is set to open on schedule, ahead of the company’s Automation Fair in Chicago in November 2025. Customer tours of the OTTO production space are expected to begin in early 2026.
