Robot makers are promoting a new generation of robots designed to work safely alongside people and take on tasks such as assembly of small parts that require more dexterity than older robots can muster.

On Monday, ABB Ltd., a Zurich-based maker of automation equipment, introduced the latest such robot, dubbed YuMi, at an automation trade fair in Hannover, Germany. Fanuc Corp. of Japan is preparing to launch a rival offering called CR-35iA.

...