What is believed to be the world’s first, practical use “ketchup dispensing robot” was officially unveiled in anticipation of the start of the 179th Erie County Fair. The robot, affectionately named “Molly” by its inventors, will be part of the “I-Hub at the Fair” series of exhibits and experiences.
Over 300 hours of Western New York-born engineering and computer programming have been invested into this unique mechanism built by Hamburg’s Staub Precision Machine. Technically known as a, “cobot” or collaborative robot, this type of automation is intended to physically interact with humans in a shared workspace. The design of the ketchup dispensing robot utilized the computer aided design skills, machining work, 3D printing, computer programing and fabrication with a dose of old fashion carnival showmanship. At the Fair, the robot will be put to work interacting with Fairgoers and providing ketchup at the popular “Jim’s Fries.” The machine is meant to symbolize and represent “homegrown” ingenuity.
The “I-Hub at the Fair” is a newly created exhibit area that will focus on Western New York’s growing technology, engineering and science economy as well as education. “I-Hub at the Fair,” with the “I” standing for “innovation, imagination & ingenuity,” will be located inside the Fair’s Showplace Building with other displays being highlighted around the Fairgrounds. Displays will focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) based businesses and education through daily demonstrations, interactive displays and hands-on activities.
