A centre for the design and development of cutting edge robotic systems has been established on Stirling University Innovation Park (SUIP).

Ram Mechanical Europe currently specialises in developing robotic solutions for the bottling and diary industries.

The company, a wholly owned subsidiary of the California based Ram Mechanical Inc, designs robot arm end tools incorporating a unique vision system to fit a particular application.

In the dairy application this allows the robot to track a cow’s teats, attach itself and undertake the milking process.

RAM has also developed complete solutions for the Water Bottling industry, which are marketed through the True Integration brand.

The company’s new facility on the Innovation Park will focus on the development of new applications and will support new installations of RAM’s existing systems throughout Europe.

Ram Mechanical currently employs two people at its Stirling facility, this is anticipated to rise substantially within the next year.

Andrew Peacock, Managing Director of RAM Mechanical Europe, said: “The reason we chose Stirling Innovation Park to establish our European base is its ideal location. Its central situation allows us easy access to both Glasgow and Edinburgh airports. The facilities on the Park will also facilitate our expansion plans. We are delighted to be here.”

Lynn Blaikie, SUIP’s Operations & Business Development Manager, said: “Ram Mechanical are operating at the cutting edge of robotic research and development. Their innovative technology and product development matches our focus on creating a dynamic business environment that enables companies to achieve their potential. I’m delighted to welcome them onto the Park.