Jabez Technologies, creators of software to simplify complex robotic programming, is joining Hypertherm, manufacturer of plasma, waterjet, and laser cutting systems, to make it easier for companies to utilise robots for manufacturing applications.

Simple offline programming is a key barrier to the wider utilisation of robotics in manufacturing. Hypertherm and Jabez believe combining Hypertherm’s cutting expertise with Jabez’s skilled engineering and support staff will make it easier for robotic programmers and integrators to achieve optimal results. At the same time, Jabez can enhance its support for a wide variety of robotic programming applications, including those beyond cutting, by leveraging Hypertherm’s global infrastructure and strong engineering community.

“A growing trend toward lean and flexible manufacturing is resulting in the expanded use of robotics in our served industries. Manufacturers realize that robots are increasingly critical to producing higher quality products at a lower cost, and to achieving the speed and flexibility needed to remain competitive,” Evan Smith, Hypertherm’s President and CEO commented.

“Adding Jabez to the Hypertherm team will enable Hypertherm to bring even greater value to our robotic customers, and at the same time provide Jabez with the support and resources to achieve its wider vision, which we share.”

Hypertherm is not making any major changes to Jabez’s operations, leadership structure, or distribution channels. Chahe Bakmazjian, founder and president of the privately held company, will continue to lead his team as part of Hypertherm’s newly established Robotic Software group.

Jabez’s current offices in the Montreal area will remain intact, with no consolidations or reductions planned. Support for non-Hypertherm cutting systems, non-cutting applications and previously planned investments in engineering and support resources will continue. In addition, Jabez Associates will receive all Hypertherm benefits, including profit sharing and full participation in the company’s employee stock value plan. The transaction was structured as a purchase of substantially all assets of Jabez Technologies.

Jabez Technologies specialises in simplifying complex robotic programming for 3D shapes, particularly in high-mix manufacturing environments. With the ability to program many different robots across multiple processes, and by providing tools for easy cell setup and configuration, its Robotmaster software delivers the flexibility required to support a wide variety of robotic applications. Built-in simulation tools, on-the-fly calculation capabilities and unique optimisation and collision avoidance tools allow programmers to quickly prepare their jobs with confidence.

For further details contact Craig Sterley of Hypertherm on email craig.sterley@hypertherm.com or visit www.hypertherm.com