New York Stock Exchange-listed Rockwell Automation has finalised its acquisition of Clearpath Robotics, a deal that includes autonomous mobile robot (AMR) maker Otto Motors.

Now the transaction is finalised, both Canada-based Clearpath Robotics’ namesake research division and Otto Motors will report to Rockwell’s intelligent devices operating segment.

Rockwell Automation chairman and chief executive officer Blake Moret says: “This acquisition marks a turning point for our customers around the world. 

“Rockwell is simplifying and transforming the difficult yet critical function of materials handling throughout the manufacturing plant with an end-to-end production logistics solution. 

“Production logistics is key to optimising operations across an entire facility and bringing the connected enterprise to life.”

When the acquisition was announced last month, Rockwell said AMRs were the “next frontier” in industrial automation and transformation.

“Transporting parts and materials to assembly lines and between manufacturing cells is one of the industry’s most complex and inefficient tasks, often resulting in production bottlenecks,” Rockwell said in a statement. 

“Autonomous production logistics will transform the workflow throughout a manufacturing plant, enabling substantial reductions in cost and greater operational efficiency.”