The RIA reports North America’s industrial robot sales were higher in the second quarter of 2012 than any previous quarter in history. As anticipated, robot sales in the U.S. were driven by work in the industrial sector (automotive, metal and electronics) while non-automotive related orders continued to fall behind.

A total of 5,556 robots valued at $403.1 million were sold to North American companies, a jump of 14% in units and 28% in dollars over the same quarter in 2011.  Orders in the first half of 2012 totaled 10,652 robots valued at $747 million, increases of 20% in units and 29% in dollars over the same period last year.

“The strong sales reflect increased demand for robotics in industries such as automotive,…