Markets / Industries Archives - The Robot Report

LG introduces door-type CLOi ServeBot for deliveries in healthcare settings

The Robot Report Staff — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 12:00:07 +0000

The new CLOi ServeBot has four doors and storage space to automate deliveries. | Source: LG Business Solutions

LG Business Solutions USA Inc. unveiled its latest LG CLOi ServeBot yesterday. Model LDLIM31 is an autonomous service robot that can provide safe deliveries in hospitality and healthcare settings, it said.

Introduced at the HITEC 2024 hospitality technology trade show, the latest CLOi ServeBot features a four-door design. LG said that the robot has ample storage space and that it can performs simple and repetitive delivery tasks to reduce the burden on staffers.

“Our newest service robot brings a new level of functionality and flexibility to the hospitality and healthcare channels,” stated Mike Kosla, senior vice president of LG Business Solutions USA.

“Featuring advanced platform technologies that include AI, communications, and control, the new CLOi ServeBot is going to help our hospitality and healthcare customers streamline their operations,” he added. “The introduction of a door-type service robot reinforces our commitment to constantly innovate in ways that bring meaningful new benefits to our customers.”

The CLOi ServeBot is designed for hospitality and healthcare. LG Electronics

LG Electronics widens its portfolio of B2B robots

LG serves commercial customers in the U.S. lodging and hospitality, digital signage, systems integration, healthcare, education, government, and industrial markets. The Englewood Cliffs, N.J.-based company launched its CLOi CarryBot in the U.S. earlier this year. The autonomous mobile robot (AMR) can move up to 1.2 m/sec. (2.6 mph) with 18 hours of runtime and a six-hour charge time.

According to LG Electronics USA Business Solutions, a unit of Seoul-based LG Electronics Inc., this latest offering bolsters its portfolio of AI robots and robot control systems.

The new system also aligns with the company’s plan to accelerate the expansion of its business-to-business (B2B) offerings, particularly in delivery and logistics services.

In March, LG Electronics led the $60 million Series C round for service robot maker Bear Robotics Inc.

CLOi ServeBot LDLIM31 designed for capacity, stability

LG’s new door-type robot has four internal compartments, each capable of holding items weighing up to 30 kg (66.14 lb.). These compartments allow it to make multiple deliveries or collections at a time.

The robot’s cargo space can accommodate as many as 32 standard-size, 12-oz. coffee cups, explained the company. Users can also adjust the shelving according to the item or load size.

Tailored for indoor hospitality and healthcare environments, LG CLOi ServeBot can use elevators, expanding operational coverage. The robot has six wheels with independent suspension to provide stability. This enables the LDLIM31to transport beverages over uneven surfaces without significant spillage, said LG.

For user convenience, ServeBot’s doors can be set to open or close automatically during operation. Using built-in cameras in its internal compartments, the robot can detect when items have been removed and the delivery is completed.

The robot is equipped with algorithms that allow it to safely navigate around obstacles, determine the optimal route to its destinations, and communicate with up to 20 other CLOi ServeBots to maximize task efficiency and avoid potential collisions.

CLOi ServeBot also has a front-facing 10.1-in. (25.6 cm) display that serves as a mobile advertising platform. Users can upload content for display via the LG CLOi Cloud Station for mobile and web use or the CMS mobile app.

The door-type CLOi ServeBot has won the 2024 Red Dot “Best of the Best” design award and the 2024 iF Design Award.

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Waymo ends waitlist, opens robotaxi service to all in San Francisco

The Robot Report Staff — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 19:49:46 +0000

Waymo is ditching its waitlist and allowing anyone to hail a Waymo robotaxi in San Francisco. | Source: Waymo

Starting today, anyone in San Francisco can hail a robotaxi using Waymo LLC’s app. The company has been operating in the city for years now, slowing scaling its operations. In total, nearly 300,000 people, including those who live, work, and visit San Francisco, have signed up to ride since the company first opened its waitlist.

Before today, Waymo has welcomed new riders incrementally in the city, and now it’s opening its services to everyone. The Mountain View, Calif.-based Alphabet Inc. subsidiary said in a blog post that it is already completing tens of thousands of weekly trips in San Francisco. The company claimed that its Waymo One service provides safe, sustainable, and reliable transportation to locals and visitors to the city.

“I’m thankful to be living in a city that embraces technology when it can improve our lives with convenient and safe modes of transit,” stated Michelle Cusano, Executive Director at The Richmond Neighborhood Center.

Waymo has been hard at work expanding its robotaxi operations in several cities this year. Earlier this month, it expanded its service in Phoenix, its largest service area. The company added 90 square miles (233 sq. km) to what was already its largest service area in metropolitan Phoenix.

Waymo said its riders can now hail Waymo One service across 315 square miles (815.8 sq. km) of the Valley. The expanded service area covers more of Scottsdale’s resorts and expands to downtown Mesa, Ariz. This gives riders access to desert attractions, golf courses, and downtown destinations such as the Mesa Arts Center and Pioneer Park.

How are riders using Waymo One in SF?

Waymo recently conducted a rider survey to learn about where its users are going in its robotaxis. The company reported that about 30% of its rides in San Francisco are to local businesses.

In addition, over half of the riders said they’ve used Waymo in the past couple of months to travel to or from medical appointments. The company asserted that this highlights the value of personal space during these trips.

Interestingly, 36% of riders in San Francisco said they used Waymo to connect to other forms of transit, like BART or Muni.

“I enjoy riding in Waymo cars and appreciate the ease of transportation,” said Charles Renfroe, development manager at Openhouse SF. “Members of our community, especially transgender and gender non-conforming folks, don’t have to worry about being verbally assaulted or discriminated against when riding with Waymo.”

Waymo’s fleet is all-electric and sources 100% renewable energy from the City’s CleanPowerSF program. Since the beginning of its commercial operations in August 2023, the company said its rides have helped curb carbon emissions by an estimated 570,000 kg (628,317 tons).

California Sen. Dave Cortese last week withdrew Senate Bill 915. It would have allowed local governments to restrict and tax autonomous vehicle companies, similar to how conventional taxicab companies are regulated in California.

Robotaxi hits rough roads in Phoenix

Earlier this month, Waymo issued a voluntary software recall for all of its 672 robotaxis after one autonomously drove into a telephone pole in Phoenix last month. This was Waymo’s second-ever recall.

During the incident, which took place on May 21, an empty Waymo vehicle was driving to pick up a passenger. To get there, it drove through an alley lined on both sides by wooden telephone poles that were level with the road, not up on a curb. The road had longitudinal yellow striping on both sides to indicate the path for vehicles.

As the vehicle pulled over, it struck one of the poles at a speed of 8 mph (12.8 kph), sustaining some damage. No passengers or bystanders were hurt, said Waymo.

After completing the software update, the company filed the recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Waymo said this update corrects an error in the software that “assigns a low damage score” to the telephone pole. In addition, it updates the company’s map so its vehicles can better account for the hard road edge in the alleyway that was previously not included.

Waymo’s engineers deployed the recall at its central depot to which its robotaxis regularly return for maintenance and testing. It was not an over-the-air software update.

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Autonomous vehicle legislation withdrawn from California senate

Brianna Wessling — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 14:37:30 +0000

Several autonomous vehicle companies are based in California, including Cruise and Waymo. | Source: Waymo

California Sen. Dave Cortese last week withdrew Senate Bill (SB) 915 from consideration. SB 915 would have allowed local municipalities to restrict and tax autonomous vehicle (AV) companies, similar to how taxicab companies are regulated in the state.

“It’s good to see California lawmakers going back to the drawing board on autonomous vehicle policy,” said Chamber of Progress director of civic innovation policy Ruth Whittaker. “Autonomous vehicles have the power to save thousands of lives in California by eliminating drunk, distracted, and unsafe human driving. Over the past month, we’ve heard leaders from across the state raise concerns that this bill could derail progress on California’s roads.”

Currently, AVs are legislated by two statewide entities in California, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). Once an AV company has received all the proper permits from these two entities, it can run its robotaxi service in the state.

SB 915 would have required AV companies to obtain permits from every city and/or county they run their services in.

Had the bill passed, cities and counties could create a permitting program for the vehicles, establish vehicle caps and hours of service restrictions, and establish interoperability or override systems that first responders could access in emergencies. Each city and/or county would have also been able to levy service charges, fees, or assessments to the companies.

Additionally, SB 915 would have made it unlawful to operate an autonomous vehicle service without a valid permit issued by the local jurisdiction in which the service is substantially located.

Opponents of the bill said it would keep AV companies held up in legislative red tape, throttling their ability to grow and deploy their services. Proponents, on the other hand, say it gives power back to cities and counties, where legislation typically moves more quickly than in state-wide agencies.

Autonomous vehicle companies face additional scrutiny in California

While SB 915 has been dropped, it doesn’t mean the AV industry in California is completely in the clear. Earlier this year, the city of San Francisco filed a lawsuit against the CPUC to drastically reduce the number of robotaxis on the city’s roads

The lawsuit centers around the CPUC’s decision in August 2023 to grant both GM’s Cruise and Alphabet’s Waymo their final permits in the state (Cruise’s permits have since been revoked). These permits allowed the companies to charge for rides, expand the hours of operation and service area, and add as many robotaxis to their fleets as they wanted. The lawsuit is asking the CPUC to reconsider its decision and whether it was compliant with the law.

San Francisco city attorney David Chiu filed an administrative motion after the August decision in an attempt to delay Cruise and Waymo from ramping up operations and get another hearing with the CPUC. In December, the City Attorney’s office filed a lawsuit with the California Appellate Court to request the CPUC review its August decision and revoke Waymo’s permit.

The lawsuit also asks the CPUC to develop reporting requirements, safety benchmarks, and other public safety regulations to address incidents that have involved first responders, created traffic, and disrupted public transportation.

There are several autonomous vehicle companies based in California, including Cruise and Waymo.

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Coval releases redesigned CVGC carbon vacuum grippers

The Robot Report Staff — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 13:29:09 +0000

The upgraded CVGC carbon vacuum gripper has a variety of customizations, including sizing, configurability, and compatibility. | Source: Coval

Vacuum grippers are a popular option for manufacturers and warehouse operators hoping to get the most payload capacity out of their robots. These grippers can provide between four and 10 times more power than their electromechanical counterparts, making them good at lifting heavy weights, said Coval Inc. The provider of vacuum automation technology has released its redesigned CVGC carbon vacuum gripper.

Coval it designed this upgraded gripper with feedback from its customers, integrators, manufacturers, and operators. The Raleigh, N.C.-based company said it also took into account current and future trends in the collaborative robot market. These trends include greater application diversity, growth in the number of manufacturers, increased co-presence with operators, and handling of heavier loads.

The new CVGC offers a number of advantages, claimed Coval. First, thanks to its carbon design, the gripper is ultra-light and compact. It’s also compatible with a wide range of cobots and has a range of configuration possibilities, making it highly versatile, said the company, whose global headquarters are in France.

Coval offers two standard versions of its grippers: the M2 Version with a vacuum generator, and the CVGC GO Version without a vacuum generator. The M2 version is a plug-and-play system that Coval designed to adapt to all models of cobots. It integrates the necessary gripper functions under a protective cover for optimal use, the company noted.

The CVGC gripper is designed for versatile configurations. Source: Coval

The GO Version can be used with an independent vacuum generator, said Coval. It is equipped with a VRU-series vacuum rotary union, which the company said ensures vacuum supply to the gripper via an external source. From these two versions, customers have different options when it comes to size and configurability.

Coval aims to provide maximum flexibility

On request, Coval said its design team is available to develop customized vacuum grippers. The CVGC is available in three sizes to meet customer’s precise needs — 240 x 120 mm (9.45 x 4.72 in.), 320 x 160 mm (12.6 x 6.3 in.), 350 x 250 mm (13.78 x 9.84 in.).

The gripper is available with a choice of three mounting options and six connection cables. It also has comes with suction cups or foam gripping interfaces.

Coval built its foam Interface for the handling of rigid products and gripping textured or uneven surfaces. It has flow control nozzles and two standard hole diameters, 12 mm (.47 in.) and oblong 27 x 12 mm (1.06 x 0.47 in.).

The CVGC Suction Cup Interface can handle flexible products and comes with a wide range of cup options. It also offers flow-control nozzles in multiple diameters and has two types of standard suction cups measuring 25 mm (0.98 in.) and 33 mm (1.3 in.).

Coval added that its upgraded CVGC vacuum gripper is aimed at a range of industries, including food processing, packaging, plastics processing, and more. The company said it designed the gripper to be a versatile tool for all manufacturers, integrators, and users of cobots for palletizing, gripping boxes, plastic parts, and a wide variety of other applications.

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Formic brings in $27.4M to expand its global fleet, increase support network

Brianna Wessling — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 12:01:54 +0000

Formic Stack address labor shortages with automated palletizing, while Formic Pack automates placement of prepacked goods into containers. | Source: Formic Technologies

Formic Technologies Inc. today announced that it raised another $27.4 million in Series A funding. This builds on the company’s January 2022 funding round, bringing the company’s total Series A funding to $52 million.

“[During] the first Series A, we were really at the early stages of kind of figuring out the business,” Formic co-founder and CEO Saman Farid told The Robot Report. “We had probably fewer than 10 deployments. We had some early customers; we had some data around how much productivity our robots can bring to our customers. But it was really kind of anecdotal, and in the roughly two years since then, I would say we’ve really kind of figured out a lot of those questions and have a lot more to show.”

The Chicago-based company offers its systems to U.S. manufacturers through a robots-as-a-service (RaaS) model, in which it delivers support for automation at an hourly rate. This support includes deploying the systems and providing continuous monitoring and maintenance throughout the engagement to ensure success.

Since its last funding, Formic said its robotic fleet has completed 100,000 production hours at more than 99% uptime. The company said it expects its equipment to gain another 100,000 production hours in the next 170 days.

Many manufacturers are still new to robotics

Seventy-five percent of Formic’s customers have never used robots before adopting its platform, estimated Farid. The company aims to help more businesses realize the benefits of automation, and it has its work cut out for it. An MIT report found that only 10% of U.S. manufacturers use automation in their production facilities.

At the same time, the sector will need as many as 3.8 million new employees by 2033. An estimated 1.9 million of these jobs could go unfilled, making automation more important than ever, said industry analysts.

“Manufacturers have been struggling over the last five to 10 years to complete with global wages,” Farid said. “It’s much harder when they don’t have labor available.”

“Because of our robots, a lot of our customers are actually winning more and more business,” he asserted. “They’re able to grow, instead of what they’ve spent the last 10 years doing, which is trying not to die.”

Formic plans to use funding for expansion

“In the coming years, we plan to grow more globally. We plan to expand to new regions, both in the U.S. and outside the U.S.,” Farid said. “We are going to grow our sales and deployment and maintenance team across all of those areas so that we can support customers in all those regions.”

With the new funding, Formic plans to expand its fleet of standardized equipment. The company said this will allow it to provide more automation to more manufacturers, deploy more rapidly, and offer shorter lead times.

Formic said it also hopes to increase its network of support experts across the U.S., enabling faster customer responses while upholding its maintenance service-level agreements (SLAs).

“That [funding] is really going towards spending more capital, on building more regional capabilities; building more footprint; and building more software tools to make it faster, cheaper, easier, and more reliable to deploy these robots,” Farid said.

In addition, Formic said it will enhance its equipment-agnostic software that uses AI for motion planning, predictive maintenance, system design, and creating more intuitive customer interfaces and dashboards.

“We just started our AI product tools, and we’re starting to see a huge impact,” said Farid. “Because of all the data that we are collecting from all of our deployed robots, we believe we have the biggest and best data set out there to train world-class robotics and AI models.”

“One of them is called Formic Core, which is basically like an operating system for robots, and it allows us to really quickly configure the robot to do any task in any location,” he explained. “We have another set of tools called Fast Formic Automation Software Tools, which are basically tools for really rapid site evaluation.”

“It uses that lidar scan of a customer site to quickly generate the right robot arms and design for the entire robot work cell, which is something that’s really unique,” Farid said. “We’re able to basically cut our deployment costs nearly in half because of all the AI and software tools we’ve built. We’ve also increased the ability of our crew to maintain those robots efficiently.”

Investors bring more than just capital to the table

Blackhorn Ventures led Formic’s funding round, which also included participation from Mitsubishi HC Capital America, NEC, Translink Capital, Alumni Ventures, FJ Labs, Lux Capital, Initialized Capital, and Lorimer Ventures.

“We chose to work with [Blackhorn] because they are very focused on industrial technology, and they have a group of investors in their fund that are large industrial conglomerates from around the world,” Farid said. “So, we’re able to get a lot of mutual support from them. In addition to just putting capital in, they actually are able to really help us with growing our customer base and getting more access.”

Formic also announced a joint commercial agreement with Mitsubishi HC Capital and U.S.-based Group Company Mitsubishi HC Capital America. The two companies will collaborate to source and finance the entire lifecycle of Formic’s RaaS model, an all-encompassing managed system for manufacturing automation.

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RTI Connext to deliver real-time data connectivity to NVIDIA Holoscan

The Robot Report Staff — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 12:00:50 +0000

Medical device developers can now use RTI Connext and NVIDIA Holoscan. Source: Real-Time Innovations

Devices such as surgical robots need access to distributed, reliable, and continuous data streaming across different sensors and devices. Real-Time Innovations, or RTI, today said it is collaborating with NVIDIA Corp. to deliver real-time data connectivity for the NVIDIA Holoscan software development kit with RTI Connext.

“Connectivity is the foundation for cutting-edge technologies, such as AI, that are transforming the medtech industry and beyond,” stated Darren Porras, market development manager for medical at Real-Time Innovations. “We’re proud to work with NVIDIA to harness the transformative power of AI to revolutionize healthcare.”

“By providing competitive, tailored solutions, we are paving the way for sustainable business value across the healthcare, automotive, and industrial sectors, marking an important step toward a future where technology enhances the quality of life and drives innovation,” he added.

Founded in 1991, Real-Time Innovations claimed that it has 2,000 customer designs and that its software runs more than 250 autonomous vehicle programs, controls North America’s largest power plants, and integrates over 400 defense programs. The Sunnyvale, Calif.-based company said its systems also support next-generation medical technologies and surgical robots, Canada’s air traffic control, and NASA’s launch-control systems.

RTI Connext designed to reliably distribute data

The RTI Connext software framework enables users to build intelligent distributed systems that combine advanced sensing, fast control, and artificial intelligence algorithms, said Real-Time Innovations. This can help developers bring capable systems to market faster, it said.

“Connext facilitates interoperable and real-time communication for complex, intelligent systems in the healthcare industry and beyond,” according to RTI. It is based on the Data Distribution Service (DDS) standard and has been proven across industries to reliably communicate data, the company said.

Product teams can now efficiently build and deploy AI-enabled applications and distributed systems that require low-latency and reliable data sharing for sensor and video processing. Connext, which is available for free trials, allows applications to work together as one, said RTI.

NVIDIA Holoscan gets advanced data flows

RTI Connext provides a connectivity framework for the NVIDIA Holoscan software development kit (SDK), offering integration across various systems and sensors to complement its AI capabilities.

“Enterprises are looking for advanced software-defined architectures that deliver on low latency, flexibility, reliability, scalability, and cybersecurity,” said David Niewolny, director of business development for healthcare and medical at NVIDIA. “With RTI Connext and NVIDIA Holoscan, medical technology developers can accelerate their software-defined product visions by leveraging infrastructure purpose-built for healthcare applications.”

Connext now integrates with NVIDIA’s AI sensor-processing pipelines and reference workflows, bolstering data flows and real-time AI processing across a system of systems. With capabilities for real-time visualization and data-driven insights, the technologies can help drive more precise and automated minimally invasive procedures, clinical monitoring, and next-generation medical imaging platforms. They can also help developers create smarter, integrated systems across industries, said the partners.

NVIDIA said Holoscan offers the software and hardware needed to build AI applications and deploy sensor-processing capabilities from edge to cloud. This can help companies explore new capabilities, accelerate time to market, and lower costs, said the Santa Clara, Calif.-based company.

NVIDIA Holoscan now supports interoperability with a wide range of legacy systems, such as Windows-based medical devices, real-time operating system nodes in surgical robots, and patient-monitoring systems, through RTI Connext.

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RBR50 Spotlight: Glidance provides independence to visually impaired individuals

The Robot Report Staff — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 10:00:17 +0000

Organization: Glidance Inc.
Country: U.S.
Website: https://glidance.io/
Year Founded: 2023
Number of Employees: 2-10
Innovation Class: Application

In the U.S., around 1 million adults are blind. Yet, only 2% to 8% use a white cane for navigation. Most instead rely on guide dogs or sighted companions, according to the Perkins School for the Blind. This reliance limits independence and mobility, a challenge that Glidance, winner of the 2023 RoboBusiness Pitchfire Competition, aims to address through robotics.

The company’s flagship product, Glide, offers autonomous mobility assistance for the visually impaired. It incorporates advanced guiding technologies and a unique mechanical design to foster independence.

Glide’s innovation provides haptic and audio feedback for safety. The product has garnered praise from industry experts, particularly for its potential to serve an underserved market segment. CEO Amos Miller, himself blind, brings a firsthand perspective to Glidance’s mission.

The Seattle-based company plans to sell the device for about the cost of a new cell phone. It will also offer subscription plans that enable feature updates and options that will make Glide easily configurable for each user’s needs.

With a battery life of up to eight hours and quick user adaptation, Glide promises to revolutionize mobility for the visually impaired. Founded by Miller and Mike Sinclair, Glidance represents hope for those seeking greater freedom and autonomy in navigating the world.

Miller noted that more than 50,000 individuals lose their sight every year, yet worldwide there are only 10,000 working guide dogs any year. This leaves a huge gap and providing the opportunity for a device like Glide to make a huge difference in users’ lives. It can cost up to $50,000 annually to train and care for a guide dog throughout its working lifetime with a person who is blind.

Explore the RBR50 Robotics Innovation Awards 2024.

RBR50 Robotics Innovation Awards 2024

Organization	Innovation
ABB Robotics	Modular industrial robot arms offer flexibility
Advanced Construction Robotics	IronBOT makes rebar installation faster, safer
Agility Robotics	Digit humanoid gets feet wet with logistics work
Amazon Robotics	Amazon strengthens portfolio with heavy-duty AGV
Ambi Robotics	AmbiSort uses real-world data to improve picking
Apptronik	Apollo humanoid features bespoke linear actuators
Boston Dynamics	Atlas shows off unique skills for humanoid
Brightpick	Autopicker applies mobile manipulation, AI to warehouses
Capra Robotics	Hircus AMR bridges gap between indoor, outdoor logistics
Dexterity	Dexterity stacks robotics and AI for truck loading
Disney	Disney brings beloved characters to life through robotics
Doosan	App-like Dart-Suite eases cobot programming
Electric Sheep	Vertical integration positions landscaping startup for success
Exotec	Skypod ASRS scales to serve automotive supplier
FANUC	FANUC ships one-millionth industrial robot
Figure	Startup builds working humanoid within one year
Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics	evoBot features unique mobile manipulator design
Gardarika Tres	Develops de-mining robot for Ukraine
Geek+	Upgrades PopPick goods-to-person system
Glidance	Provides independence to visually impaired individuals
Harvard University	Exoskeleton improves walking for people with Parkinson’s disease
ifm efector	Obstacle Detection System simplifies mobile robot development
igus	ReBeL cobot gets low-cost, human-like hand
Instock	Instock turns fulfillment processes upside down with ASRS
Kodama Systems	Startup uses robotics to prevent wildfires
Kodiak Robotics	Autonomous pickup truck to enhance U.S. military operations
KUKA	Robotic arm leader doubles down on mobile robots for logistics
Locus Robotics	Mobile robot leader surpasses 2 billion picks
MassRobotics Accelerator	Equity-free accelerator positions startups for success
Mecademic	MCS500 SCARA robot accelerates micro-automation
MIT	Robotic ventricle advances understanding of heart disease
Mujin	TruckBot accelerates automated truck unloading
Mushiny	Intelligent 3D sorter ramps up throughput, flexibility
NASA	MOXIE completes historic oxygen-making mission on Mars
Neya Systems	Development of cybersecurity standards harden AGVs
NVIDIA	Nova Carter gives mobile robots all-around sight
Olive Robotics	EdgeROS eases robotics development process
OpenAI	LLMs enable embedded AI to flourish
Opteran	Applies insect intelligence to mobile robot navigation
Renovate Robotics	Rufus robot automates installation of roof shingles
Robel	Automates railway repairs to overcome labor shortage
Robust AI	Carter AMR joins DHL's impressive robotics portfolio
Rockwell Automation	Adds OTTO Motors mobile robots to manufacturing lineup
Sereact	PickGPT harnesses power of generative AI for robotics
Simbe Robotics	Scales inventory robotics deal with BJ’s Wholesale Club
Slip Robotics	Simplifies trailer loading/unloading with heavy-duty AMR
Symbotic	Walmart-backed company rides wave of logistics automation demand
Toyota Research Institute	Builds large behavior models for fast robot teaching
ULC Technologies	Cable Splicing Machine improve safety, power grid reliability
Universal Robots	Cobot leader strengthens lineup with UR30

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Smelt spout robots can improve safety, productivity in North American pulp and paper mills

Dan Morrison, Valmet — Sun, 23 Jun 2024 12:34:43 +0000

North American paper mills are starting to use robotics for smelt spout cleaning. Source: Valmet

Recovery boilers represent a significant capital expenditure in the pulp and paper industry. While a well-maintained boiler can last for decades, routine care of this system can present challenges. Maintenance duties are often messy and risky for the operator, and many tasks are time-consuming and require full or partial boiler shutdown. This can harm overall productivity and mill safety.

One maintenance task that is particularly challenging in the care of recovery boilers is smelt spout cleaning. While cleaning smelt spouts is essential for efficient recovery boiler performance, it can pose serious safety risks to the operator when the spouts are cleaned manually.

These risks include the operator encountering molten smelt, green liquor, and hot gasses, as well as repetitive-motion back and shoulder injuries. Finding operators who are willing to perform these tasks, training them, and retaining them over time have also become part of the challenge.

To improve operator safety during smelt spout cleaning and increase both operator and boiler productivity, pulp and paper facilities now have automated robotic solutions that can take on these more difficult tasks.

Robotic technology for smelt spout cleaning has been available since 2008, but it has only recently entered North American paper mills. Its delayed entry has been largely due to low numbers of new recovery boiler installations, as the robot requires a certain amount of space that is often difficult to allocate within existing operations.

Now, as North American operations are in greater need of the benefits that accompany smelt spout cleaning robots, they can invest in retrofitting existing recovery boilers with robotic solutions.

Smart design removes barriers to robotics retrofits

For pulping operations, one of the biggest barriers to adopting a smelt spout cleaning robot is often the amount of space that’s required for the robot to move around the spout deck during the cleaning cycle. In many facilities, this area around the smelt spout systems is already tight, which is part of what makes manual smelt spout cleaning difficult and risky for operators.

As automation designers have continued to invest in understanding the safety and productivity challenges faced by the pulp and paper industry, new solutions have emerged that remove this common barrier to adding robotics.

For instance, one smelt spout cleaning robot offers the option of a standing mount or a hanging mount. All that’s required to employ the hanging mount and position the robot next to the recovery boiler is a linear rail assembly.

The assembly allows the robot to move side-to-side along the spout deck to clean all spouts. Then, it moves off the spout deck once it completes the cleaning cycle. This configuration maintains sufficient room for the robot to perform its tasks while also ensuring that operators can safely enter the area to perform other duties.

Protective fencing and multiple entry and exit points will also be incorporated for additional operator safety and efficiency. The majority of retrofit work can typically be completed pre-outage, leaving sufficient time during the maintenance outage for robot installation and commissioning.

Robots can relieve worker strain but require careful integration and deployment. Source: Valmet

Smelt spout-cleaning robots proven in the field

In June 2023, Valmet installed its first smelt spout-cleaning robot in North America at the Pixelle Specialty Solutions mill in Spring Grove, Penn. The new robot performs a smelt spout cleaning cycle every 30 minutes — twice as often as operators were previously able to perform the same task manually. Each cycle takes 15 minutes, and when the robot is not actively cleaning, it rests in its home position safely out of the way.

Physical safety barriers around the robot further protect the operators by triggering the robot to freeze if the barrier is broken. Operators can also remotely control the robot’s cleaning frequency and cycles using pre-programmed sequences. Meanwhile, an onboard camera mounted on the robot wrist allows for real-time inspection of the robot’s performance and troubleshooting from the safety of the control room.

By automating smelt spout cleaning with a robot, the manufacturer added another level of safety for its operators and improved productivity by freeing them up to perform other critical tasks. Additionally, the new robot has helped raise the boiler’s liquor quality, green-to-black liquor standard deviation, and smelt standard deviation by double digits.

Collaboration is key

When retrofitting a smelt spout robot to an existing recovery boiler or planning a new installation, it’s important to choose an automation designer that has industry experience and will collaborate on-site during the design phase.

Since every operation and facility is different, the installation of a smelt spout cleaning robot is not a cookie-cutter process. The designer will have to account for existing components around the spouts like piping, flex hoses and evaluate available structural beams for their ability to support the robot carriage and the linear rail.

A skilled designer will also provide an installation plan that avoids significant spout deck alterations, as changes can be costly and time-consuming.

Smelt spout cleaning robots are meant to work with operators, not replace them. Source: Valmet.

Technology works in harmony with humans

Automation often comes with the assumption of replacing human labor, but that is not the case with smelt spout cleaning robots. Instead, this technology works in harmony with boiler operators to increase their safety. It also frees them up to perform other essential recovery boiler tasks.

Helping operators feel safer and engaging them in a wider variety of tasks throughout their workday can make it easier for pulp and paper manufacturers to hire and retain personnel in these positions. With the efficiencies of automation and well-trained, experienced personnel, manufacturers can improve productivity in many areas, making robotics retrofits worth the investment.

About the author

Dan Morrison is Valmet’s product manager for Smelt Spout Systems and the Smelt Spout Cleaning Robot. The Espoo, Finland-based company is a leading global developer and supplier of process technologies, automation and services for the pulp, paper and energy industries.

Valmet and Körber recently established a joint venture to connect the FactoryPal platform with machinery expertise to streamline digital optimization across the production lines of tissue shop floors and beyond.

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Robotics Australia Group is building a sustainable robotics industry

Dr. Nathan Kirchner, Robotics Australia Group — Sun, 23 Jun 2024 12:28:29 +0000

The group’s board, as of November 2023, from left to right, back row: Dr. Sue Keay (chair), Brenton Cunningham, Christian Ruberg, Tim Bradley, Dr. Nathan Kirchner; front row: Dr. John Vial, Tamanna Monem, Kathie van Vugt, Nicci Rossouw, Angus Robinson. Source: Robotics Australia Group

The robotics industry in Australia stands at the precipice of a transformative era, driven by a shared vision of sustainability and innovation. At the forefront of this movement is the Robotics Australia Group, an organization committed to nurturing a comprehensive robotics ecosystem.

From companies developing cutting-edge robotic technologies to educational institutions cultivating future talent, the group supports all facets of this burgeoning industry. Its mission aligns with the broader national objectives, as recently underscored by the Australian government’s National Robotics Strategy.

National Robotics Strategy points the way to innovation

Ed Husic, MP and the minister for industry and science, recently announced the National Robotics Strategy. It marks a significant milestone for the Australian robotics sector, said the Robotics Australia Group.

“The strategy not only highlights the current achievements, but also lays a robust foundation for future developments,” stated Dr. Nathan Kirchner, founding director of the group. “It is a call to industry stakeholders to collaborate and drive forward this ambitious vision.”

This strategy aims to accelerate the adoption of robotics and automation technologies across various industries, a move that is integral to the broader vision of a “Future Made in Australia.” The strategy is imbued with optimism, promising substantial advancements and positioning Australia as a leader in robotics innovation on the global stage.

Minister Husic’s declaration signaled the Australian government’s commitment to harnessing the potential of robotics to address the country’s unique challenges.

Some examples of the world-leading field robotics delivered by group members. Source: Robotics Australia Group

Minister recognizes Robotics Australia contributions

The group said its contributions have been instrumental in shaping the current landscape of the Australian robotics industry. During his announcement of the National Robotics Strategy, Husic acknowledged its sustained efforts, active participation in the development of the strategy, the contributions made through publishing Australian Robotic Roadmaps, and continued advocacy.

“We have deep pockets of robotics excellence in Australia, we will become greatly more competitive on the world stage by joining them together,” said Kirchner. “The National Robotics Strategy is a significant step towards that. I am very proud that the underpinning groundwork of the Robotics Australia Group has been recognized.”

The organization has worked to support various stakeholders within the ecosystem. By fostering collaborations, facilitating research and development, and promoting educational initiatives, it said it has created a fertile ground for the robotics industry to thrive. The group added that it is working to ensure that the benefits of robotics and automation are accessible to a broad range of industries and applications.

Robotics provides Australia a strategic advantage

”We have overcome the core challenges of a very large land and sparsely populated country in order to deliver a number of notable outcomes,” said Kirchner. “Nevertheless, through doing so, we have developed a significant strategic advantage in the field hard robotics”

Australia’s geographical and demographic characteristics make it an ideal candidate for pioneering advanced robotics, asserted the group. The country’s vast landmass, coupled with a relatively small and dispersed population, creates a unique set of challenges that robotics can effectively address. Remote areas often require complex tasks to be completed, and robots can significantly enhance efficiency and safety in these environments.

Moreover, Australia boasts a remarkable depth of local talent and expertise in both hardware and software aspects of robotics, said the organization.

Industries such as mining, ports, transport and logistics, construction, agriculture, and defense have long benefited from Australia’s field-hardened robotics intellectual property, the group added. This robust foundation of expertise and innovation positions Australia to leverage robotics in solving critical problems and improving operational efficiencies across these sectors, it said.

One of the cutting-edge manufacturing installations developed by Applied Robotics, a group member. Source: Robotics Australia Group

Sector celebrates wins and looks ahead

“The announcement of the National Robotics Strategy is an exciting and commendable first step,” said the group. “However, it is essential to recognize that this is merely the beginning. The path to a fully realized, sustainable robotics industry in Australia requires continued effort and focus. While we celebrate this significant achievement, it is crucial to remain vigilant and committed to solidifying these initial steps to ensure long-term progress.”

The future of robotics in Australia holds immense potential, it noted. By using the momentum generated by the National Robotics Strategy, the nation’s industry can aspire to new heights on the global stage. This requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders to foster an environment conducive to innovation, collaboration, and international exchange, the group said.

“With the National Robotics Strategy as a guiding framework, Australia is poised to become a global leader in robotics and automation,” said Kirchner.

This vision can only be realized through collective effort and a strategic approach to international collaboration. By establishing a bi-directional conduit for deep commercial exchange in robotics and AI, Australia can position itself at the forefront of technological innovation.

The future success of the robotics industry hinges on the ability to integrate advanced technologies into practical applications that address real-world challenges. The group said that it and other industry stakeholders must continue to advocate for policies and initiatives that support research, development, and the commercialization of robotics technologies.

“The commitment of the Robotics Australia Group to building a sustainable robotics industry in Australia is both inspiring and crucial,” Kirchner said. “Their efforts, coupled with the strategic direction provided by the National Robotics Strategy, pave the way for a future where robotics and automation play a central role in addressing the nation’s unique challenges. By celebrating current achievements and maintaining a steadfast focus on future goals, Australia can achieve remarkable advancements in the robotics industry.”

In this journey, it is essential to remain proactive, collaborative, and visionary. With a collective effort, the vision of a “Future Made in Australia” powered by advanced robotics is not just a dream, but also an imminent reality. The group is currently spearheading the production of the third edition of the Robotics Roadmap for Australia, scheduled for release in 2025.

“Together, we can propel Australia to new heights of innovation and global leadership in the robotics sector,” said the group.

About the author

Dr. Nathan G.E. Kirchner is a serial startup founder and advisor, corporate ventures advisor, professor, and founding director of a peak body. He has been recognized as one of “Australia’s Most Innovative” by Engineers Australia and one of the “Top Ten Young Scientists” by Popular Science magazine.

With over 25 years in industry and academia, Kirchner has founded and led several robotics-AI startups, and he serves as a founding director of the Robotics Australia Group. Kirchner is also a venture partner at a leading hardware-first venture capital firm.

He has held prestigious positions such as head of robotics at a major construction company and at Stanford University, the University of Technology Sydney, and Ohio State University.

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Ronovo Surgical closes Series B round for Carina modular platform

Sean Whooley — Sat, 22 Jun 2024 12:30:09 +0000

The Carina surgical robot platform. | Source: Ronovo Surgical

Ronovo Surgical this week announced that it has closed a Series B funding round worth $44 million to commercialize its Carina Platform in the Chinese market and prepare for international expansion. The Shanghai-based company has developed technologies for soft-tissue procedures.

Shanghai-based Ronovo aims to use the funds to accelerate the commercialization of the proprietary Carina platform. It hopes to bring the robot to the Chinese market and set the stage for international expansion.

Carina is configurable for multiple procedures

Ronovo Surgical said it built Carina to enable configurable robotic assistance for laparoscopic surgeries across multiple specialties. The company developed the modular system with experienced Chinese laparoscopic surgeons.

Carina addresses numerous pain points in minimally invasive surgeries. Ronovo claimed that it provides surgeons with the flexibility to choose the best instruments and the most ideal anatomical access.

Surgeons can flexibly configure the systems to optimize anatomical reach and access, as well as surgical workflow. Carina has up to five bedside modules, which can be adjusted depending on the needs of the procedure.

“Taking Carina from concept design to completion of human clinical trial in three years is the result of our clinical-driven approach toward engineering, practicality in design decisions and the remarkable dedication of our team,” said Ying Mao, chief technology officer and chief operating officer of Ronovo Surgical. “Along the way, we built out a multi-product portfolio that features surgical robotics, functional vision, and a full suite of surgical instrumentation – backed by more than 100 patent applications.”

Ronovo recently completed a clinical trial that included urology, gynecology, thoracic, and general surgery patients. The company now expects to obtain regulatory approval in China and begin commercialization in early 2025. It also plans to build a 130,000-sq.-ft. (12,077 sq. m) facility to support its launch efforts.

In addition, Ronovo recently launched its first international site — the Ronovo Institute of Surgical Excellence (RISE) in Orlando, Fla. The company said it established RISE to deepen clinical collaboration with top international surgical experts and medical societies.

Investment, innovation focus on Ronovo expansion

Guolian Capital and INCE Capital co-led Ronovo Surgical’s latest round, with participation from King Star Med and existing shareholder LongRiver Investments.

“Securing this round of financing from such an esteemed group of investors, despite challenging capital market conditions, is a significant acknowledgment of our vision, mission, and the execution of the team,” said John Ma, CEO of Ronovo Surgical. “Our innovation efforts for developing Carina have been laser-focused on expanding its application across multiple specialties, reducing the learning curve, and improving cost-effectiveness.”

Last September, the company raised $26 million, adding to a February round that came along with the unveiling of the Carina platform.

Editor’s note: This article is syndicated from The Robot Report sibling site MassDevice.

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Meril says Misso robot can simplify orthopedic surgeries

Danielle Kirsh — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 20:43:11 +0000

The Misso robot will help surgeons with personalized pre-planning and precise cutting for joint replacement. | Source: Meril

Meril Life Sciences Pvt. Ltd. this week unveiled its Misso surgical robot for simplifying orthopedic procedures.

The India-based company announced on LinkedIn that it is developing surgical robot for total knee procedures. It said it designed Misso to help surgeons with personalized pre-planning and precise cutting for joint replacements.

Misso has an optical tracking sensor, a six-axis articulated robotic arm, and “superior” safety systems, claimed Meril. The surgical robot can help physicians perform real-time gap checks and modify a surgical plan intraoperatively, it explained.

Various cutting options are available on the Misso, including full and partial cutting based on surgeon preference. Cutting guides are not required, and the system can perform a tibial cut and a fully finished femur with all the cuts, including peg holes, according to the company.

Misso includes safety features

Meril designed Misso with bone-movement monitoring to ensure safety during procedures. If bone movement is observed, the resection process stops.

The resection will continue with automatic recovery of the bone position. If the robotic system’s tools contact the patient or other object, the collaborative robot arm will immediately stop moving.

Misso uses optical tracking-based navigation and robotic assistance to ensure accurate results in shaping and aligning artificial knee joint components. The company aims to improve post-operative outcomes, reduce complications, and promote faster patient recovery.

Meril joins competitive surgical robot market

Founded in 2006, Meril said it is dedicated to the innovation, design, and development of novel, clinically relevant devices. Its product portfolio includes vascular intervention devices, orthopedic implants, robotics, endo-surgery, ENT products, and in-vitro diagnostics.

The company has joined the growing surgical robotics market, where it will compete with orthopedic surgical robot developers such as Stryker and Zimmer Biomet. Stryker launched its its Mako surgical robot in 2017 and introduced a joint-replacement offering in February 2024.

Also in February, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared Zimmer Biomet’s Rosa surgical robotic platform for shoulder and hip replacement procedures. The FDA had cleared it for partial knee replacement for partial knee replacement in April 2021.

Editor’s note: This article is syndicated from The Robot Report sibling site MassDevice.

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Neya Systems, AUVSI to develop cybersecurity certification program for UGVs

The Robot Report Staff — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 13:50:50 +0000

Neya offers autonomy, mission planning, and open architecture for uncrewed ground vehicles. | Source: Neya Systems

Neya Systems yesterday announced that it is partnering with the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International, or AUVSI. The partners said they plan to develop a cybersecurity and supply chain framework and certification program for uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs).

AUVSI and Neya Systems said they have observed a growing need for standardized evaluation and certification of UGVs. The goal of the collaboration is to establish comprehensive standards and testing protocols to enhance the security, safety, performance, and reliability of uncrewed and autonomous ground vehicles and robots.

The framework and voluntary certification program will focus on enhancing the protection, mitigation, recovery, and adaptability of AGVs, said the organizations.

“We are excited to announce the development of this cybersecurity certification program for UGVs,” stated Kurt Bruck, vice president at Neya Systems. “This initiative represents a significant step forward in our efforts to establish an industry standard for protecting UGVs from unauthorized access. Our partnership with AUVSI will enable us to foster innovation and trust within the industry as a whole, ultimately enhancing the safety and reliability of these autonomous systems.”

Neya Systems has cybersecurity, simulation expertise

Warrendale, Pa.-based Neya Systems develops and integrates advanced, vehicle-agnostic, off-road, and airborne autonomy. The subsidiary of Applied Research Associates is a 2024 RBR50 Robotics Innovation Award winner for its cyber autonomy initiative.

In March, Neya said it is working with the Embodied AI Foundation to update the CARLA open-source simulator for autonomous driving research to Unreal Engine 5.

Neya Systems said will be bringing its expertise in applying the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DoD) Zero Trust cybersecurity principles to its autonomy software to the partnership.

Neya has worked with the U.S. Army to turn the Palletized Load System into an optionally crewed, autonomous vehicle. Source: Neya Systems

AUVSI brings complementary experience

Arlington, Va.-based AUVSI plans to share the industry expertise of members in its Cyber Working Group and Ground Advocacy Committee.

The nonprofit organization is dedicated to the advancement of uncrewed systems and robotics. It represents corporate, government, and academic professionals from more than 60 countries. AUVSI said its members work in defense, civil, and commercial markets.

AUVSI’s Cyber Working Group previously advised on the development of AVUSI’s Green UAS Frameworks and certification. It said this is the only verification method besides Blue UAS that the DoD’s Defense Innovation Unit has approved as confirming compliance with National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) requirements for drones.

“The need for standards and certifications for uncrewed systems continues to grow alongside the development and integration of uncrewed and autonomous vehicles and robotics,” noted Casie Ocaña, director of trusted programs at AUVSI. “In the ground domain, AUVSI is looking to leverage our Trusted Cyber framework so that we can offer a solution to verify and support compliance among ground vehicle and robotics companies – which will further advance the safe and reliable future of these technologies.”

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RBR50 Spotlight: Slip Robotics minimizes trailer loading times with simple approach

The Robot Report Staff — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 10:00:57 +0000

Organization: Slip Robotics
Country: U.S.
Website: www.sliprobotics.com
Year Founded: 2019
Number of Employees: 11-50
Innovation Class: Application & Market

Imagine you’re a truck driver finally arriving at your destination after hours of driving. Once you drop off your cargo, you know you have hours more to go before the end of your workday.

In between all this driving, you spend a significant amount of time simply waiting for your trailer to be unloaded and loaded again. While there are robots that can unload pallets or boxes individually, Slip Robotics has taken a different approach to the problem.

Instead of creating a robotic arm to pick items individually, the Atlanta-based company developed SlipBot, also known as an automated loading robot (ALR).

It’s a large, omnidirectional mobile robot that can carry up to eight full pallets and a total of 6 tons. Once the pallets are on the ALR, it autonomously drives into a trailer for transport to the next destination.

When it gets there, it drives off the truck and into the warehouse. Once the truck has been unloaded, the ALRs waiting in the wings can drive onto the trailer.

This can reduce driver wait time from 1.5 hours down to just five minutes, said Slip Robotics. The company also said it can load 20 pallets per minute without driving a forklift into a trailer.

Besides reducing wait times for divers, Slip claimed that its robots can load eight times as many trailers with the same number of operators. It can also reduce damage by 40% by reducing touches and impacts in material handling.

Finally, the company said its systems can improve worker safety. Twenty-five percent of industrial accidents involve a loading dock, noted Slip Robotics, and ALRs make it so operators never need to enter trailers to unload, load, or secure.

Explore the RBR50 Robotics Innovation Awards 2024.

RBR50 Robotics Innovation Awards 2024

Organization	Innovation
ABB Robotics	Modular industrial robot arms offer flexibility
Advanced Construction Robotics	IronBOT makes rebar installation faster, safer
Agility Robotics	Digit humanoid gets feet wet with logistics work
Amazon Robotics	Amazon strengthens portfolio with heavy-duty AGV
Ambi Robotics	AmbiSort uses real-world data to improve picking
Apptronik	Apollo humanoid features bespoke linear actuators
Boston Dynamics	Atlas shows off unique skills for humanoid
Brightpick	Autopicker applies mobile manipulation, AI to warehouses
Capra Robotics	Hircus AMR bridges gap between indoor, outdoor logistics
Dexterity	Dexterity stacks robotics and AI for truck loading
Disney	Disney brings beloved characters to life through robotics
Doosan	App-like Dart-Suite eases cobot programming
Electric Sheep	Vertical integration positions landscaping startup for success
Exotec	Skypod ASRS scales to serve automotive supplier
FANUC	FANUC ships one-millionth industrial robot
Figure	Startup builds working humanoid within one year
Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics	evoBot features unique mobile manipulator design
Gardarika Tres	Develops de-mining robot for Ukraine
Geek+	Upgrades PopPick goods-to-person system
Glidance	Provides independence to visually impaired individuals
Harvard University	Exoskeleton improves walking for people with Parkinson’s disease
ifm efector	Obstacle Detection System simplifies mobile robot development
igus	ReBeL cobot gets low-cost, human-like hand
Instock	Instock turns fulfillment processes upside down with ASRS
Kodama Systems	Startup uses robotics to prevent wildfires
Kodiak Robotics	Autonomous pickup truck to enhance U.S. military operations
KUKA	Robotic arm leader doubles down on mobile robots for logistics
Locus Robotics	Mobile robot leader surpasses 2 billion picks
MassRobotics Accelerator	Equity-free accelerator positions startups for success
Mecademic	MCS500 SCARA robot accelerates micro-automation
MIT	Robotic ventricle advances understanding of heart disease
Mujin	TruckBot accelerates automated truck unloading
Mushiny	Intelligent 3D sorter ramps up throughput, flexibility
NASA	MOXIE completes historic oxygen-making mission on Mars
Neya Systems	Development of cybersecurity standards harden AGVs
NVIDIA	Nova Carter gives mobile robots all-around sight
Olive Robotics	EdgeROS eases robotics development process
OpenAI	LLMs enable embedded AI to flourish
Opteran	Applies insect intelligence to mobile robot navigation
Renovate Robotics	Rufus robot automates installation of roof shingles
Robel	Automates railway repairs to overcome labor shortage
Robust AI	Carter AMR joins DHL's impressive robotics portfolio
Rockwell Automation	Adds OTTO Motors mobile robots to manufacturing lineup
Sereact	PickGPT harnesses power of generative AI for robotics
Simbe Robotics	Scales inventory robotics deal with BJ’s Wholesale Club
Slip Robotics	Simplifies trailer loading/unloading with heavy-duty AMR
Symbotic	Walmart-backed company rides wave of logistics automation demand
Toyota Research Institute	Builds large behavior models for fast robot teaching
ULC Technologies	Cable Splicing Machine improve safety, power grid reliability
Universal Robots	Cobot leader strengthens lineup with UR30

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Autonomous kitchen developer Circus to roll out 5,400 robots across Beijing

The Robot Report Staff — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 17:59:36 +0000

CA-1 is a fully automated food system capable of ingredient dispensing, cooking, cleaning, and packaging without human intervention. | Source: Circus Group

Circus SE, a developer of autonomous kitchen systems, plans to roll out a network of 5,400 food production robots across 92 Beijing educational institutions. With the rollout, the company said it expects its revenue to grow to the low single-digit-billion euro range over the next few years. Circus Group also said the robots will produce nearly 4 billion fresh meals annually.

Last week, Circus made the initiative official when it signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Beijing University Food Raw Material Procurement Center. The company said the partnership will allow it to build and scale an autonomous flood supply network using its Circus Autonomy One (CA-1) system.

“The signing of this MoU represents a significant milestone for Circus and the future of foodservice autonomy globally,” stated Nikolas Bullwinkel, founder and CEO of Circus Group.

“We are honored about the opportunity to serve Beijing’s students across educational institutions and faculties with our food service technology and offer a range of balanced meals to millions of bright minds while enhancing food safety and efficiency in university canteens with the implementation of this partnership,” he said. “This agreement marks our entry into the Chinese market and underscores the immense potential of our technology to transform food service around the world.”

Procurement Center serves over 90 institutions

Established in 2001, the Beijing University Food Raw Material Joint Procurement Center procures raw materials for university canteens, guided by China’s Ministry of Education and industry committees. The center is intended to guarantee food quality and safety and enhance the quality of life for students and faculty members. It serves more than 90 universities and educational institutions in Beijing, providing millions of meals daily within a limited timeframe.

Launched in 2021, Circus currently has more than 75 employees and four locations. The Hamburg, Germany-based company’s stated goal is to disrupt food-service operations with the use of AI, robotics, and proprietary software systems.

The MoU outlines the basic terms of future cooperation between the two parties. It is not legally binding but serves to define the key points of the contractual agreement until the detailed and legally binding contracts are drawn up.

Circus Group plans for CA-1 rollout

CA-1 is a food-production robot capable of autonomously dispensing ingredients, cooking, cleaning, and packing without human intervention, according to Circus. It has a compact 20 sq. m (215.2 sq. ft.) footprint.

The system can minimize production expenses and food waste while upholding culinary and hygiene standards, claimed the company.

As part of the agreement, the parties said they will establish an autonomous supply system, run by CA-1 robots, enabling the on-demand production of more than 10 million meals daily across Beijing’s educational institutions. The parties said that CA-1 will ensure the availability and constant accessibility of meals for every student.

CA-1 runs on Circus Group’s proprietary operating system, Circus OS. The suite is designed to improve operational efficiency, quality assurance, and customer satisfaction by digitally controlling all operational processes and integrating artificial intelligence.

Circus and the procurement center plan to carry out the collaboration in multiple phases. They will start with setting up joint test operations at universities to prepare for the broader market launch of CA-1. From the start of this initial phase, Circus will receive exclusive market access.

“The partnership with the Circus Group represents a significant step forward in the development of an automated and highly efficient food supply system,” said Liu Zhigang, director of the Beijing University Food Raw Material Joint Procurement Center. “Their robotics technology will provide our institutions with access to affordable, high-quality meals on demand, enhancing the quality of life for both students and teachers at our facilities.”

In an additional defined national growth phase, the procurement center could further support Circus in a nationwide rollout of the CA-1 food production robot to serve 4,000 educational institutions with a total of 60 million students.

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Apollo humanoid robot in tests by Apptronik and GXO for warehouse use

The Robot Report Staff — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 16:19:34 +0000

Apollo developer Apptronik is working with third-party logistics provider GXO on a proof of concept. Source: GXO Logistics

Over the past year, humanoid robots have moved from science fiction to early commercial trials. GXO Logistics Inc. today announced that it is conducting an early-stage proof-of-concept program with robot manufacturer Apptronik Inc. GXO said it has partnered with developers to help shape their humanoid prototypes to satisfy the logistics industry’s needs.

“We’re excited to partner with Apptronik to develop their AI-enabled humanoid robot,” stated Adrian Stoch, chief automation officer at GXO Logistics. “Apollo has great potential to add value throughout the distribution center, including the most labor-intensive operational processes.”

“These kinds of robotics reduce repetitive work and improve safety while freeing associates to focus on higher-value-added activities,” he added. “As we progress on our R&D journey with Apptronik, we’ll also be evaluating its capability for other critical use cases along the way.”

Greenwhich, Conn.-based GXO Logistics claimed that it is “the world’s largest pure-play contract logistics provider,” benefitting from the rapid growth of e-commerce, automation, and outsourcing. The company has more than 130,000 team members across more than 970 facilities totaling approximately 200 million sq. ft.

Stoch participated in a panel on the state of warehouse automation at last month’s Robotics Summit & Expo.

Apptronik designs Apollo to collaborate with humans

Spun out of the Human Centered Robotics Lab at the University of Texas at Austin in 2016, Apptronik has built Apollo to work alongside people. It is the culmination of the design and development of more than 10 general-purpose robots, including extensive work on NASA’s Valkyrie.

Apollo is 5 ft. 8 in. (172.7 cm.) tall, can carry 55 lb. (24.9 kg), and uses swappable batteries for extended runtimes, according to Apptronik. The Austin-based company said its system uses linear actuators that mimic the mechanics of human muscles and provide a full range of mobility.

In March, Apptronik said it is integrating Apollo with NVIDIA Corp.‘s foundation model for robot learning as part of Project GR00T. It also announced that automaker Mercedes-Benz is testing the humanoid robot.

Apollo’s force-control architecture and flexible safety-zone perimeter allow it to work safely around and directly with people, said Apptronik and GXO. The companies said they are jointly evaluating the robot‘s performance in a laboratory setting to fine-tune Apptronik’s AI model before deploying the technology to a GXO distribution center somewhere in the U.S.

“Our mission is to build versatile robots that can do work in real-world applications – from large, powerful movements like transporting boxes and totes to small, precise ones like picking individual items or scanning barcodes,” said Jeff Cardenas, co-founder and CEO of Apptronik, who spoke at last year’s Robotics Summit & Expo, among other events.

“That’s why we’re committed to helping technology leader GXO optimize its logistics operations and create an even safer, more engaging workplace for its employees with the help of Apollo,” Cardenas said. “The two phases of this R&D program represent essential steps toward the launch of an innovative scalable automation solution for GXO.”

GXO tests multiple humanoid robots

GXO Logistics had been testing the Digit humanoid from Agility Robotics, which won the RBR50 Robot of the Year Award. While humanoids have been a popular topic of discussion at the past year’s conferences and trade shows, Digit and Apollo are among the very few to progress to commercial testing.

Last year, GXO said it has increased its total units of warehouse automation by about 50% year over year. It also trialed a wide range of new hardware and software, including AI-powered robotics and autonomous vehicles.

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