The robotics market, like all capital equipment markets, has suffered through a tough period of late. However, it's clear that new markets are developing, new challenges are being met and new business is on the horizon.

To find out about all the latest industry trends, applications and success strategies, attend the 2002 Robotics Industry Forum, scheduled for Nov. 6-8 at Portofino Bay Hotel in Orlando, Fla. It's the only annual robotics event in the world designed to provide networking opportunities for everyone involved in robotics, from suppliers to users to researchers.

Some 150 industry leaders are expected to attend. Many of them come every year to hear the outstanding presentations and to network with their peers. In the words of Carl Ruoff, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Space Automation & Robotics: "It is an excellent opportunity to interact with principals in the industry."

On Wednesday, Nov. 6, before the evening kickoff reception for the Robotics Industry Forum, leading robotics users converge to share their insights on the strategic and financial benefits of using robotics. Among the featured speakers are successful manufacturing leaders from Dana Corp., Harley-Davidson, Honeywell and Pepperidge Farm. Roundtable discussions will be held following the presentations, allowing attendees to discuss their specific needs with robotics suppliers and users.

Sponsored by RIA, this new conference is designed to educate senior management with an interest in robotics on cost-justification strategies, the strategic impact of robotics automation, successful case studies, how robotics fit into a lean manufacturing strategy and related issues.

Take full advantage of all the outstanding presentations and networking opportunities by registering for the Forum and User Discovery Day.

"I'm not aware of any other industry event that offers either the informational content or the networking value found in the RIA Robotics Industry Forum," said Steve Holland, Director, Enterprise Systems Lab, and Chief Scientist for Manufacturing.

Full details about Robotics User Discovery Day, the 10th Annual Robotics Industry Forum and all other RIA activities and member benefits are available at www.roboticsonline.com or by calling RIA headquarters at 734-994-6088.