Mining Archives - The Robot Report

AWS offers accelerated robotics simulation with NVIDIA

The Robot Report Staff — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 18:30:07 +0000

AWS and Isaac Sim can help accelerate robotics development, says NVIDIA.

NVIDIA Corp. today announced at AWS re:Invent enhanced tools for robotics developers, as well as the availability of NVIDIA DGX Cloud on Amazon Web Services and offerings for artificial intelligence and quantum computing.

The company said that NVIDIA Isaac Sim is now available on NVIDIA L40S graphics processing units (GPUs) in Amazon Elastic Cloud Computing (EC2) G6e instances. It said this could double scaling robotics simulation and accelerate AI model training. Isaac Sim is a reference application built on NVIDIA Omniverse for developers to simulate and test AI-driven robots in physically based virtual environments.

With NVIDIA OSMO, a cloud-native orchestration platform, developers can easily manage their complex robotics workflows across their AWS computing infrastructure, claimed the company.

“This combination of NVIDIA-accelerated hardware and software — available on the cloud — allows teams of any size to scale their physical AI workflows,” wrote Akhil Docca, senior product marketing manager for Omniverse at NVIDIA.

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What is ‘physical AI?’

According to NVIDIA, “physical AI” describes AI models that can understand and interact with the physical world. The company said it “embodies the next wave of autonomous machines,” such as self-driving cars, industrial manipulators, mobile robots, humanoids, and even robot-run infrastructure like factories and warehouses.

With physical AI, developers are embracing a “three-computer solution” for training, simulation, and inference to make breakthroughs, NVIDIA said. Yet physical AI for robotics systems requires robust training datasets to achieve precision inference in deployment. Developing such datasets and testing them in real situations can be impractical and costly.

Simulation offers an answer, as it can accelerate the training, testing and deployment of AI-driven robots, the company asserted.

L40S GPUs in the cloud offer to scale simulation, training

Developers can use simulation to verify, validate, and optimize robot designs as well as the systems and their algorithms before deployment, said NVIDIA. It added that simulation can optimize facility and system designs before construction or remodeling starts for maximum efficiencies, reducing costly manufacturing change orders.

Amazon EC2 G6e instances accelerated by NVIDIA L40S GPUs can double performance over the prior architecture, while allowing the flexibility to scale as scene and simulation complexity grows, NVIDIA said. Roboticists can use these instances to train many computer vision models that power AI-driven robots.

This means the same instances can be extended for various tasks, from data generation and simulation to model training. NVIDIA added that OSMO allows teams to orchestrate and scale complex robotics development workflows across distributed computing resources, whether on premises or in the AWS cloud.

NVIDIA said Isaac Sim can foster collaboration and critical workflows, such as generating synthetic data for perception model training.

A reference workflow combines NVIDIA Omniverse Replicator, a framework for building custom synthetic data generation (SDG) pipelines and a core extension of Isaac Sim, with NVIDIA NIM microservices. With it, developers can build generative AI-enabled SDG pipelines, it said.

These include the USD Code NIM microservice for generating Python USD code and answering OpenUSD queries, plus the USD Search NIM microservice for exploring OpenUSD assets using natural language or image inputs.

The Edify 360 HDRi NIM microservice can generate 360-degree environment maps, while the Edify 3D NIM microservice can create ready-to-edit 3D assets from text or image prompts. Generative AI can thus ease the synthetic data generation process by reducing many tedious and manual steps, from asset creation to image augmentation, said NVIDIA.

Rendered.ai’s synthetic data engineering platform is integrated with Omniverse Replicator. It enables companies to generate synthetic data for computer vision models used in industries from security and intelligence to manufacturing and agriculture.
SoftServe Inc., an IT consulting and digital services provider, uses Isaac Sim to generate synthetic data and validate robots used in vertical farming with Pfeifer & Langen, a leading European food producer.
Tata Consultancy Services is building custom synthetic data generation pipelines to power its Mobility AI suite to address automotive and autonomous use cases by simulating real-world scenarios. Its applications include defect detection, end-of-line quality inspection, and hazard avoidance.

NVIDIA, AWS help robots learn in simulation

While Isaac Sim enables developers to test and validate robots in physically accurate simulation, Isaac Lab, an open-source robot learning framework built on Isaac Sim, provides a virtual playground for building robot policies that can run on AWS Batch. Because these simulations are repeatable, developers can troubleshoot and reduce the number of cycles required for validation and testing, said NVIDIA.

The company cited robotics startups that are already using Isaac Sim on AWS:

Field AI is building robot foundation models to enable robots to autonomously manage a wide range of industrial processes. It uses Isaac Sim and Isaac Lab to evaluate the performance of these models in complex, unstructured environments in construction, manufacturing, oil and gas, mining, and more.
Vention, which offers a full-stack cloud-based automation platform, is creating pretrained skills to ease development of robotic tasks, noted NVIDIA. It is using Isaac Sim to develop and test new capabilities for robot cells used by small to midsize manufacturers.
Cobot offers Proxie, its AI-powered collaborative mobile manipulator. It uses Isaac Sim to enable the robot to adapt to dynamic environments, work alongside people, and streamline logistics in warehouses, hospitals, airports, and more.
Standard Bots is simulating and validating the performance of its R01 robot used in manufacturing and machining setup.
Swiss-Mile is using Isaac Sim and Isaac Lab for robot learning so that its wheeled quadruped robots can perform tasks autonomously with new levels of efficiency in factories and warehouses.
Cohesive Robotics has integrated Isaac Sim into its software framework called Argus OS for developing and deploying robotic workcells used in high-mix manufacturing environments.
Aescape’s robots are able to provide precision-tailored massages by accurately modeling and tuning the onboard sensors in Isaac Sim.

NVIDIA made other announcements in addition to the availability of Isaac Sim 4.2 on Amazon EC2 G6e Instances powered by NVIDIA L40S GPUs on AWS Marketplace.

It said that NVIDIA DGX Cloud can run on AWS for training AI models; that AWS liquid cooling is available for data centers using its Blackwell platform; and that NVIDIA BioNeMo NIM microservices and AI Blueprints, developed to advance drug discovery, are now integrated into AWS HealthOmics.

The company also said its latest AI Blueprints are available on AWS for video search and cybersecurity, the integration of NVIDIA CUDA-Q with Amazon Braket for quantum computing development, and RAPIDS Quick Start Notebooks on Amazon EMR.

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Clearpath Robotics discusses development of Husky A300 ground vehicle

Eugene Demaitre — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 15:00:08 +0000

The Husky A300 is designed to be tougher and have longer endurance than the A200. Source: Clearpath Robotics

Developers of robots for indoor or outdoor use have a new platform to build on. In October, Clearpath Robotics Inc. released the Husky A300, the latest version of its flagship mobile robot for research and development. The Waterloo, Ontario-based company said it has improved the system’s speed, weather resistance, payload capacity, and runtime.

“Husky A200 has been on the market for over 10 years,” said Robbie Edwards, director of technology at Clearpath Robotics. “We have lots of experience figuring out what people want. We’ve had different configurations, upgrades, batteries and chargers, computers, and motors.”

“We’ve also had different configurations of the internal chassis and ingress protection, as well as custom payloads,” he told The Robot Report. “A lot of that functionality that you had to pay to add on is now stock.”

Husky A300 hardware is rugged, faster

The Husky A300 includes a high-torque drivetrain with four brushless motors that enable speeds of up to 2 m/s (4.4 mph), twice as fast as the previous version. It can carry payloads up to 100 kg (220.4 lb.) and has a runtime of up to 12 hours, said Clearpath Robotics.

The company, which Rockwell Automation acquired last year, noted that the platform can integrate third-party components and accessories including depth cameras, directional lidar, dual-antenna GPS, and manipulators. Husky A300 has an IP54 rating against dust and water and can withstand industrial environments or extreme temperatures outdoors, it said.

“Before, the Husky was configured on a bespoke basis,” said Edwards. “Now we’re off at a more competitive price, which is great for our customers, and it now comes off our production line instead of our integration line.”

Founded in 2009, the company has tested its hardware and software near its office in a wide range of weather conditions.

Clearpath’s integration with Rockwell has gone smoothly so far, with Rockwell’s procurement team easing access to components and manufacturing, said Edwards. He observed that some of Rockwell’s customers in mining or other industrial automation could find new use cases in time.

The Husky A300 can withstand dust and temperature variances. Source: Clearpath Robotics

Clearpath includes ROS 2 support with A300

Husky A300 ships with Robot Operating System (ROS) 2 Jazzy plus demonstrations of Nav2, MoveIt 2, and other developer utilities.

“Over the past two years, there was a big push to get all Clearpath products to ROS 2 Humble because its configuration management system made life easier for our integration team and customers,” recalled Edwards. “We also provide support for simulation, and URDF [Unified Robot Description Format] is configured.”

Many of Clearpath’s R&D customers were familiar with ROS, C++, and Python, so it offered visualization and simulation tools in addition to the ROS stack, he added. However, as the company got non-expert customers, it wanted to enable them to also work with Husky.

“Academics who aren’t roboticists but want to do data collection can now do so with a simple Python interface, without learning ROS,” Edwards said. “We’ve maintained a level of flexibility with integrating different payloads and compute options while still giving a pretty good price point and usability.”

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Husky AMP a ‘turnkey’ option

Clearpath Robotics is offering a “turnkey” version of the robot dubbed Husky AMP, or autonomous mobile platform. It comes with a sensor suite for navigation, pre-installed and configured OutdoorNav software, a Web-based user interface, and an optional wireless charging dock.

“Robotics developers can easily integrate payloads onto the mounting deck, carry out a simple software integration through the OutdoorNav interface, and get their system working in the field faster and more efficiently,” said Clearpath.

“We’ve lowered the barrier to entry by providing all software function calls and a navigation stack,” Edwards asserted. “The RTK [real-time kinematic positioning] GPS is augmented with sensor fusion, including wheel odometry, and visual and lidar sensors.”

“With a waypoint following system, the robotics stack does the path planning, which is constrained and well-tested,” he said. “Non-roboticists can use Husky A300 as a ground drone.”

More robot enhancements, use cases to come

Clearpath Robotics is considering variant drive trains for the Husky A300, such as tracks for softer terrain as in agriculture, said Edwards.

“Husky is a general-purpose platform,” he said. “We’re serving outdoors developers rather than end users directly, but there’s a lot of demand for larger, high-endurance materials transport.”

For the A300, the company surveyed its client base, which came back with 150 use cases.

“I’ve seen lots of cool stuff — robots herding animals, helping to grow plants, working in mines, participating in the DARPA Subterranean Challenge in fleets of Husky and [Boston Dynamics’] Spot,” Edwards said. “Husky Observer conducts inspections of sites such as solar farms.”

“The benefits for industrial users also help researchers,” he said. “Making the robot cheaper to deploy for faster time to value also means better battery life, weatherproofing, and integrations.”

Edwards added that Clearpath has received a lot of interest in mobile manipulation with its Ridgeback omnidirectional platform.

“This trend is finding its way outdoors as well,” he said. “On the application engineering side, developers have put put two large Universal Robots arms on our Warthog UGV [uncrewed ground vehicle] for things like changing tires.”

The Husky A300 can carry different sensor payloads or robotic arms. Source: Clearpath Robotics

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Sandvik adds Universal Field Robots to mining division

The Robot Report Staff — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 16:46:40 +0000

UFR has developed autonomous systems for multiple industries. Source: Universal Field Robotics

Sandvik AB today said it has acquired Universal Field Robots, or UFR, a developer of autonomous systems for the surface and underground mining markets. UFR will report to Digital Mining Technologies, a division within the Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions business area.

“Universal Field Robots is an important strategic addition to Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions, which will strengthen our growth potential and provide key capabilities in the development of our mining automation solutions portfolio going forward,” stated Stefan Widing, president and CEO of Sandvik, when the company first announced its intentions in August.

Stockholm, Sweden-based Sandvik provides technologies for the mining, manufacturing, and infrastructure industries. As of 2023, the company had about 41,000 employees, sales in 170 countries, and revenue of SEK 127 billion ($11.5 billion U.S.).

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Universal Field Robots to widen equipment compatibility

Universal Field Robots has approximately 40 employees and is headquartered in Eagle Farm, near Brisbane, Australia. The company‘s systems are built on a common autonomy platform, including OEM-agnostic products for trucks, loaders, and auxiliary equipment.

Sandvik said UFR’s technology complements its own automated offerings. “The acquisition will help to increase the addressable market for Sandvik and further strengthens the market position of Sandvik AutoMine — the world’s leading mining automation platform,” it claimed.

The companies said the acquisition will expand the number of third-party equipment types that can integrate with AutoMine.

In the financial year that ended in June 2024, Universal Field Robots generated revenue of approximately SEK 80 million ($7.2 million). Sandvik said the purchase will have a limited effect on its earnings before interest, taxes, and amortization (EBITA) will be limited. It added that the impact on its earnings per share, excluding non-cash amortization effects from business combinations, will be positive.

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Enduring the elements: encoder solutions for extreme field robotics

The Robot Report Staff — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 18:33:38 +0000

Field robotics is redefining industries with technologies that perform complex tasks in unstructured and often dynamic environments – out of the warehouse, facing the weather, and potentially working alongside the public.

Field robotics OEMs are tirelessly innovating solutions to address skilled labor gaps and improve efficiency and safety in a wide range of industries including; agriculture, mining, construction, and search and rescue.

Join the Celera Motion team on December 5, 2024 at 12 PM Eastern for a journey into the enduring the elements in extreme robotics where we can help you tackle the toughest of the tough conditions with precision and reliability including:

Resistance to elements in extreme environments
Precise measurements in challenging settings
Reduced maintenance and downtime

Attendees can register for free here. In this webinar, you will:

Learn how field robotics is transforming various industries by enabling complex operations in challenging and unpredictable environments
Discover cutting-edge advancements made by field robotic OEMs to combat skilled labor shortages and improve operational efficiency across various sectors
Learn how field robots endure harsh conditions, ensure data precision, and minimize downtime for reliable operations
Explore Celera Motion’s innovative inductive encoders, critical for accurate measurement feedback, precision control, and reduced operational disruptions in extreme robotic applications

The webinar airs live at 12:00 PM Eastern on Thursday, December 5, 2024. Attendees can have their questions answered live, and the recording will be available on demand after the initial broadcast. Register now.

Meet the speakers

Jake Lantner – Application Engineer, Robotics & Automation, Novanta
Jake Lantner serves as the Application Engineer for Encoder Technologies within Novanta’s Robotics and Automation Division. With two years in this role, he specializes in integrating components for unique and demanding applications. Jake holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of New Hampshire. In his free time, he enjoys motorsports, mountain biking, and snowboarding.

Steve Crowe – Executive Editor, The Robot Report
Steve Crowe is Executive Editor of The Robot Report and chair of the Robotics Summit & Expo and RoboBusiness. He is also co-host of The Robot Report Podcast, the top-rated podcast for the robotics industry. He joined WTWH Media in January 2018 after spending four-plus years as Managing Editor of Robotics Trends Media. He can be reached at scrowe@wtwhmedia.com

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Robotics Leadership Academy to develop workforce in Pittsburgh Robotics Network initiative

The Robot Report Staff — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 20:04:22 +0000

From left to right: Jennifer Apicella, executive director of the PRN; Gayle Manchin, federal co-chair of ARC; and Rich Fitzgerald, executive director of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. Source: Pittsburgh Robotics Network

Many workers in southwestern Pennsylvania were left with few career prospects when economic and environmental concerns shifted coal mining to other regions. To address that challenge, the Pittsburgh Robotics Network yesterday announced that it has received a $750,000 grant to launch the Robotics Leadership Academy and provide new opportunities in robotics and autonomous systems.

The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) provided the grant as part of $68.2 million in funding for 65 projects through its Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative. POWER directs federal resources to economic diversification and revitalization projects in Appalachian communities affected by the downturn of the coal industry.

With matching funds from regional contributors, the total funding for the Robotics Leadership Academy amounts to $1.5 million. This funding will support a three-year initiative to equip 220 workers with the skills necessary to drive innovation and commercialization within the region’s robotics cluster.

“We are incredibly grateful for the ARC’s support,” stated Jennifer Apicella, executive director of the Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN).

“This funding allows us to continue expanding Pittsburgh’s robotics business ecosystem by fostering a more skilled workforce capable of transforming both local and global markets,” she added. “The Robotics Leadership Academy will be instrumental in building the talent pipelines necessary to sustain our region’s competitive edge while accelerating the commercial growth of these companies.”

A similar program is the eKentucky Advanced Manufacturing Institute (eKAMI), which opened a robotics training center in 2020.

Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission aids PRN

The Pittsburgh Robotics Network is a non-profit organization dedicated to building a leading robotics ecosystem around Pittsburgh. By connecting businesses, investors, and academia, the PRN said it works to accelerate the commercial growth and impact of robotics in the region and beyond.

Team members from the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission, the region’s federally designated Local Development District (LDD), provided technical assistance and guidance throughout PRN’s grant-writing process.

“Our organization’s mission is to keep the region connected by planning for its future, and one of the ways we do that is by working to secure federal funding for area organizations like PRN,” said Rich Fitzgerald, executive director of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. “Co-chair [Gayle] Manchin’s continued support of our region demonstrates the valued partnership that we have with the ARC team.”

“We are committed to fostering economic development through innovative methods, and PRN’s Leadership Academy will do just that by directly working to equip workers with the skills they need to be employed in and around the region’s growing robotics sector,” he said.

Robotics Leadership Academy involves regional partners

The Robotics Leadership Academy will also collaborate with Partner4Work, InnovatePGH, The Robotics Factory, Penn State University, and others to deliver two training tracks tailored for both technical professionals and students, said the Pittsburgh Robotics Network. The program will target diverse groups across the Appalachian region, with an emphasis on creating equitable pathways into high-demand, high-wage positions in the robotics industry.

“The RLA represents a pivotal moment for Pittsburgh’s robotics cluster,” noted Sean Luther, executive director of InnovatePGH. “By aligning education, industry, and community efforts, Pittsburgh is intentionally supporting a new generation of robotics leaders and building a workforce equipped for the future.”

Rob Cherry, CEO of Partner4Work, agreed that workforce development is key to regional growth.

“With the support of ARC, PRN’s efforts will give job seekers in Appalachia the skills needed to participate in the global robotics economy,” he said. “Together, we are shaping a more equitable and prosperous future for our workforce and businesses.”

Curriculum aligns with regional, federal goals

The Robotics Leadership Academy’s curriculum will explore the intersection between leadership and technical skills, bridging the gap between technology development and product commercialization, according to the PRN. It will also focus on creating equitable opportunities for underrepresented groups in the technology workforce.

“This grant enables us to not only grow the robotics workforce, but also ensure that opportunities are accessible to communities in our region,” said Jenny Sharpe, director of workforce development at the Pittsburgh Robotics Network. “We’re committed to expanding access to education and training, particularly for those historically underrepresented in the tech sector.”

This award is aligned with the goals of the Build Back Better initiative, coordinated by the New Economy Collaborative. It received a $62.7M investment from the U.S. Economic Development Administration.

The Robotics Leadership Academy is scheduled to begin in late 2024, with training sessions held quarterly through to 2027. The PRN said it expects the initiative to train 220 workers and serve as a model for workforce development across the U.S.

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Advanced Navigation expands Certus line with Mini series

The Robot Report Staff — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 14:34:47 +0000

The Certus Mini series promises compact navigation for autonomous systems. Source: Advanced Navigation.

Field robots, autonomous vehicles, and aerial drones require reliable and compact navigational systems. Advanced Navigation this week announced that it expanded Certus range with the new Mini series.

Available in three variants, the Certus Mini series includes the GNSS-aided Certus Mini D and Certus Mini N inertial navigation system (INS). Meanwhile, the Certus Mini A functions as an attitude and heading reference system (AHRS).

Weighing no more than 55 g (1.9 oz.), the products offer high performance and cost efficiency for their weight and size, said Advanced Navigation.

“Manufacturers and system integrators often face trade-offs between performance, size, cost, and weight,” noted Chris Shaw, CEO of Advanced Navigation. “The Certus Mini series is a testament these attributes do not need to conflict with one another.”

“For customers deploying land-based vehicles, this value-driven breakthrough lowers their entry barrier to precise and reliable navigation,” he added. “It also unlocks new possibilities for those using lightweight airborne platforms, such as drones, where every gram counts towards flight efficiency and power consumption.”

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Advanced Navigation designs for future flexibility

“Designed with flexibility in mind, the series is easily integrated into existing and new system builds with simple plug-and-play connectivity, minimizing development time and costs,” stated Shaw. “This adaptability, paired with its performance and size, makes the Mini series a powerful addition to the already versatile Certus range.”

Sydney, Australia-based Advanced Navigation shared the following specifications for its new systems:

Dual-antenna INS – Leading the series, the Certus Mini D features dual-antenna GNSS (global navigation satellite system) heading for accurate heading, position, and velocity. At a maximum weight of 55 grams, it offers a dual-antenna INS in a lightweight and compact size.
Multiband GNSS receiver – By operating on the L1/L5 multi-constellation GNSS, the Certus Mini series offers interference immunity, position accuracy, and multipath resistance in urban environments, such as near tall buildings, tree canopies, and canyons.
Software-enabled hardware – The series includes Advanced Navigation’s algorithmic technology. “This software-enabled hardware delivers navigation data superior to outputs based on traditional filter methods, offering new levels of performance for miniature INS in GNSS-challenged environments,” claimed the company.

The quality of the Certus Mini series is ensured through in-house manufacturing. Source: Advanced Navigation

Certus Mini Dual-antenna navigation

0.1 ° roll and pitch
0.1 ° heading (GNSS)
10 mm RTK (real-time kinematic) positioning
1,000 Hz update rate

Certus Mini Navigation, single antenna

0.1 ° roll and pitch
0.2 ° heading (velocity)
10 mm RTK positioning
1,000 Hz update rate

Certus Mini Attitude and heading reference system (AHRS)

0.1 ° roll and pitch
0.8 ° heading (magnetic)
1,000 Hz update rate

Certus Mini offers ease of integration

Advanced Navigation said the Certus Mini series can be easily integrated into legacy systems and new builds, reducing installation or upgrade time and minimizing costs. The company said this can accelerate navigation deployment across diverse applications:

Geospatial surveying – Certus Mini can provide accurate positioning and attitude without weighing down a drone, said Advanced Navigation. This enables new applications for surveying environments across open-pit mines, construction sites, urban areas, and critical infrastructure.
Agriculture – In a new era of “farming-as-a-service” (FaaS), Certus Mini can be designed into agricultural robots and equipment to assist with a diverse range of tasks. These include aerial spraying, weed detection and localization, monitoring crop health, inspecting moisture levels, creating field maps, autonomous pruning, and grass cutting.
Open-pit mining – Advanced Navigation said Certus Mini is suitable for surface drilling OEMs and integrators seeking precise rig alignment. The system can provide precise alignment even in deep pits where multipath errors occur, and its ruggedized design delivers reliability in harsh mining conditions, it said.
Asset tracking – Certus Mini can be used to track and monitor assets for a range of industries, such as mining, facilities management, manufacturing, construction, commercial fleets, automotive, and oil and gas.

The Certus Mini line is designed to add precision to multiple applications. Source: Advanced Navigation

In-house manufacturing enables rapid product delivery

By leveraging capabilities in software-enabled hardware, Advanced Navigation claimed that its navigation and autonomous systems deliver “exceptional performance across land, air, sea, and space applications where GPS is unreliable.”

By manufacturing all systems in-house, Advanced Navigation said its vertical integration framework streamlines development, enhances quality control, and ensures agility in responding to customer demand. The company added that it uses machine learning and advanced quality-control mechanisms to maintain the reliability and longevity of the components integrated into its navigation systems.

The Certus Mini series is now available for purchase in OEM and ruggedized forms.

Advanced Navigation noted that the series will replace its Orientus and Spatial legacy systems. Customer support will continue for Orientus and Spatial, and the company recommends the Certus Mini Series for new builds.

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Polymath Robotics to share lessons learned as a SaaS-based startup at RoboBusiness

The Robot Report Staff — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 17:55:33 +0000

As the demand for robotics as a service and software as a service continues to grow, so does the opportunity for providers of such services. Ilia Baranov, the co-founder and CEO of Polymath Robotics Inc., will share his experience and advice at RoboBusiness 2024.

The global software-as-a-service (SaaS) market was valued at $237.55 billion in 2023, according to Fortune Business Insights. The research firm predicted that the market will experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.4% over the next decade, reaching over $1 trillion by 2032.

Launched in 2022, Polymath Robotics’ SaaS offering includes autonomous navigation systems for off-highway vehicles. The San Francisco-based company‘s flagship product is its Polymath autonomy engine, which it said provides foundational autonomy.

Ilya Baranov, CTO, Polymath Robotics

The engine can handle path planning, navigation, and obstacle detection and avoidance, said Polymath. The company’s team of roboticists, software engineers, and machine learning specialists has built in a safety layer that includes auto-stop. It serves the agriculture, mining, and defense industries, among others.

At RoboBusiness, Baranov will share war stories and strategies to launch a small robotics effort as a SaaS-focused company. He will discuss what Polymath Robotics has built so far, where it is going, what is going on in the funding market, and where the larger community is moving.

Baranov previously led robotics teams at Amazon, where he worked on software for the Astro home robot. He was also an early employee at Clearpath Robotics. Baranov said he often takes a “Swiss Army knife” approach to a problem, where the fastest and most versatile solution is preferred to the perfect solution.

About RoboBusiness 2024

RoboBusiness, which takes place Oct. 16 and 17 in Santa Clara, Calif., is the leading event focused on the development of commercial robots and robotics businesses. Early bird registration closes soon.

In addition to enabling tech and robotics innovation, RoboBusiness 2024 focuses on investments and business topics related to running a robotics company. Thousands of robotics experts from around the world will convene at the event.

RoboBusiness will feature more than 60 speakers, over 100 exhibitors and demos on the expo floor, 10+ hours of dedicated networking time, the Pitchfire Robotics Startup Competition, and more.

Keynote talks at the event include Rodney Brooks, co-founder and chief technology officer at Robust AI; Sergey Levine, co-founder of Physical Intelligence and an associate professor at UC Berkeley; Claire Delaunay, CTO of farm-ng; and Torrey Smith, the co-founder and CEO of Endiatx.

The show will also include a keynote panel “Driving the Future of Robotics Innovation,” featuring Amit Goel, head of robotics at edge AI ecosystem at NVIDIA; John Bubnikovich, president of ABB Robotics US; Eric Truebenbach, managing director of Teradyne Robotics Ventures; and Joan-Wilhelm Schwarze, a senior global innovation manager at DHL.

RoboBusiness is co-located with DeviceTalks West and is produced by WTWH Media, which also publishes The Robot Report, Automated Warehouse, and Collaborative Robotics Trends, as well as produces the Robotics Summit & Expo.

For information about sponsorship and exhibition opportunities, download the prospectus. Questions regarding sponsorship opportunities should be directed to Colleen Sepich at csepich[AT]wtwhmedia.com.

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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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Elmo Motion Control to show innovations at 2024 Robotics Summit

The Robot Report Staff — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 12:00:06 +0000

Elmo demonstrates its technologies in a gantry robot. Source: Elmo Motion Control

From industrial automation and healthcare applications to increasingly diverse use cases, robots need precise and reliable motion control. Elmo Motion Control Ltd., a global technology leader, plans to display its latest innovations at events across the Americas including this week’s Robotics Summit & Expo in Boston.

The company, which supports industrial and collaborative robots, as well as automated guided vehicles (AGVs), smart warehouse systems, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and dispensing products, will also exhibit next week at the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston and Automate in Chicago.

“We eagerly anticipate exhibiting at these three industry events in three major U.S. cities in a whirlwind timeframe,” stated Elizabeth Victor, director of sales in the Americas at Elmo Motion Control. “We are thrilled to meet trade show visitors and showcase our comprehensive line of servo drives and our newest advanced innovations.”

“Our innovations boast outstanding capabilities, such as fully certified functional safety, and continue raising the industry’s technology bar,” she added. “We are particularly excited about showing a glimpse of the future with innovations significantly enhancing any machine’s performance.”

Platinum line includes Bassoon with functional safety

Platinum Bassoon Servo Drive. Source: Elmo Motion Control

Elmo Motion Control said its Platinum line of servo drives demonstrates its “commitment to innovation and excellence.” It includes the recently launched Platinum Bassoon, this line’s first AC drive, which includes the leading certified functional safety capabilities.

The Platinum Bassoon supports up to 10 amps at 230 volts and has up to 3.25 kW of continuous power. The drive is compatible with brushless, DC brush, linear motors, or voice coil, said the company.

At each show in May, Elmo is providing an opportunity to see its latest technologies. It will show its new multi-axis servo drives with full functional safety and the next-generation motion controller with artificial intelligence.

At Automate, visitors can see a collaborative robot with full functional safety and a life-sciences robot from Elmo customers Wyzo and Peak Robotics.

About Elmo and the Robotics Summit

Elmo Motion Control said it has been a motion-control technology leader for over 35 years, with millions of servo drives working 24/7 worldwide. The company‘s offerings range from design to delivery of servo drives, network-based multi-axis motion controllers, and integrated servo motors.

Elmo said all of its systems can be customized and configured using proprietary software tools for machines in any industry, such as semiconductors, lasers, robots, drones, industrial automation, extreme environments, and more. The company employs more than 350 people.

Its headquarters in Petah Tikva, Israel, and offices in the U.S., China, Germany, Italy, Korea, and Singapore, plus a manufacturing facility in Poland. Elmo has a worldwide distribution network. As of 2022, Elmo is a Bosch Rexroth company.

Elmo Motion Control will show its technologies at Booth 314 at the Robotics Summit & Expo on May 1 and 2. To schedule a one-on-one meeting, register here: https://www.elmomc.com/media/events/

The Robotics Summit & Expo, which will be in the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, will include keynotes and sessions with industry experts, more than 200 exhibitors, a MassRobotics Engineering Career Fair, and several networking opportunities. Registration is now open for the event.

Register now

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Australia robotics industry overview published by HowToRobot

The Robot Report Staff — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 12:00:07 +0000

Robotics is growing across sectors in Australia, finds a recent report. Source: HowToRobot

As demand for commercial robots continues to grow worldwide, so too are the innovation and vendor communities to serve them. A new report from HowToRobot.com and Robotics Australia Group found 466 robotics and automation suppliers in Australia’s fast-growing sector.

“Many societies struggle with labor shortages and aging populations and need robots and automation to maintain living standards,” stated Søren Peters, CEO of HowToRobot. “They will count on robots to automate not only factories, but also many other sectors, where Australia has a strong focus.”

As a global marketplace, HowToRobot said it connects buyers with its growing network of robotics and automation suppliers. The Chicago-based company added that its digital tools, market insights, and guides are intended to help businesses understand their needs and find the right systems.

Australia has a mix of factory and field robots

Australian robotics companies have specialized in automation for both factory and field, including sectors not traditionally served by robotics companies in other markets, according to the market report. These sectors include mining, which 29% of Australian robotics companies serve, it said.

Twenty percent of Australian companies support the construction industry, and 19% serve the agriculture and forestry sectors, said HowToRobot and Robotics Australia Group.

“As a country with vast geography and few people, we have developed a special expertise in field robotics, which can operate in challenging, unstructured environments,” said Dr. Sue Keay, chair of Robotics Australia Group. She is the sister of Andra Keay, managing director of Silicon Valley Robotics.

Examples of field robotics include swarms of robots used in agriculture, underwater robots for offshore inspection, and mobile robots for inspecting outdoor areas that are difficult to access. The report noted that robotics countries in Australia focus on automating tasks across industries, such as handling and picking items, covered by 51% of robotics suppliers.

In addition, 37% of suppliers support inspection and quality control, 33% automate logistics and storage functions, and 28% provide robots for packing and palletizing, said the report.

Australia has a robot density, or number of robots per 10,000 workers, of 134 units, according to the 2021 World Robot Report from the International Federation of Robotics (IFR). That was higher than the European average of 123 units but lower than that of the top countries, including South Korea, Singapore, Japan, Germany, and Sweden, as well as that of the U.S. at 255 or China at 246.

HowToRobot, Robotics Australia Group co-produce report

HowToRobot partnered with Robotics Australia Group to conduct research and produce the “2023 Market Overview of Robot and Automation Companies in Australia.”

Robotics Australia Group is an incorporated not-for-profit organization intended to act as “the voice for robotics in Australia.” The organization said its mission is to facilitate the growth of a sustainable and internationally competitive national robotics industry.

The report also found that out of Australia’s 466 robotics suppliers, 57% are integrators, 19% manufacture robots or drones, and 15% supply components. Seven percent are distributors, and 3% count as advisors.

In addition to the robotics industry itself, 47% of suppliers serve metals and machinery, 42% support logistics, and 30% supply the food and beverage industry.

The report said that non-manufacturing industries also received a strong robotics focus in Australia. In addition to mining and construction, 24% of suppliers provide robots for the energy sector, and 17% supply the recycling industry.

Register now

Study intended to support robotics growth

The effort to map robotics providers in Australia can help break down barriers to robot adoption, said Peters.

“A growing number of businesses need automation but often struggle with getting started,” he observed. “Where do you find the right solution and business to provide it if you don’t know where to look?”

“Providing an overview of the industry is a first step towards bringing our global marketplace to Australia and making it easier for businesses to find the right robotics and automation providers,” Peters added.

The industry overview is not only useful for businesses dealing directly with the robotics industry, but it can also help build a better public understanding of robotics in Australia in a timely way, said Keay. In May, the Australian government established a committee and published a discussion paper proposing a national robotics strategy.

“Robotics is on the public agenda like never before with the upcoming national robotics strategy,” she said. “Knowing who our robotics providers are helps us understand the key strengths of the industry to build on.”

The full report contains more information about the market for robotics and automation in Australia, including statistics on robotics companies and a complete data sheet containing every supplier identified in the research. It is available at HowToRobot.com.

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Stratom launches autonomous ground vehicle refueling solution

Mike Oitzman — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 14:28:47 +0000

Stratom RAPID uses an industrial robot arm to autonomously refuel a military vehicle. | Credit: Stratom

Stratom is a Colorado-based, veteran-owned robotics company that is helping automate various logistics processes for the United States military. Today, the company launched RAPID, its autonomous refueling, recharging and liquid transfer system for rugged environments and a variety of applications.

The solution leverages an industrial robot arm to autonomously locate a refueling port on a vehicle and then deliver the fuel. The system is ruggedized and designed to be deployed in the field, in adverse and difficult conditions.

Stratom’s core autonomy software drives the entire system, and the solution is versatile enough so that it can be configured for any number of mounting use cases and fuel types.

RAPID is adaptable to different vehicle types and can be deployed for a variety of applications, from mining, warehouse operations, trucking, aviation and cargo movement to high-volume container refilling and the transport of other materials, including water, other liquids and hazardous wastes.

The system can be used in both autonomous and human-operated applications. It can be operated remotely, so that the refueling operator can remain in another vehicle, bunker or a safe distance away. Vehicle operators do not need to exit their vehicles during the refueling process.

“Autonomy is transforming how we live, work, learn and entertain ourselves. Trends are increasingly showing that applications of this technology center around autonomous vehicles and the deployment of autonomous fleets,” said Mark Gordon, president and CEO of Stratom. “As the world moves toward an autonomous future, why bring humans back in the loop? At Stratom, we automate monotonous, difficult or dangerous tasks to help keep organizations — and their most valuable asset, their people — operating safely and at peak efficiency.”

Stratom has already deployed the RAPID solution to refuel helicopters. | Credit: Stratom

Stratom has deployed a number of autonomous refueling solutions, including helicopter refueling stations. The portability of the solution is key to the design as it allows the entire system to be transported and deployed to support mobile operations in the field.

Stratom claims the operational benefits of RAPID include:

Reduced human exposure to hazardous environments
Improved productivity and efficiency of fuel delivery system
Streamlined configurability as a self-sufficient containerized system
Ruggedized design for deployment in the most austere environments
Increased resilience of operations

“Delivering a completely customized, groundbreaking solution aligned with the evolution of autonomous vehicles empowers Stratom to partner with innovative companies across industries to continue to solve the most pressing real-world operational challenges,” said Ryan DelGizzi, Stratom’s director of engineering. “With RAPID, crewed and uncrewed transportation and logistics operations decision-makers can significantly increase project flexibility and cost-efficiency while simultaneously solving productivity and safety challenges related to conveying significant amounts of liquid or fueling or recharging autonomous systems, vehicles, aircraft and other platforms.”

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Impossible Mining raises $10.1M for underwater mining robot

Brianna Wessling — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 21:29:45 +0000

Impossible Mining, a company developing an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) that uses a pick and place manipulator to harvest battery materials from the deep seabed, announced that it brought in $10.1 million in seed funding.

The company began working on the engineering architecture for its AUV in 2020, and filed its first patents in 2021. Impossible Mining also raised its first funding round in 2021, allowing it to begin work on Proof of Concept for its nodule harvesting and bio-extraction technologies, which it hopes to finish in late 2022.

When finished, Impossible Mining’s AUV will travel up to four-miles deep into the ocean to harvest polymetallic nodules individually. The robot will be equipped with image sensing technology so that it can identify megafauna present on the nodules and leave the ones with megafauna present untouched.

“The US needs independent, secure access to critical battery metals. We are excited to accelerate the production of our deep water robots with this injection of capital, and to prove to both regulators and stakeholders that we can achieve what dredge-based technology can’t – the preservation of the seafloor environment,” Oliver Gunasekara, CEO & co-founder of Impossible Mining, said.

The company’s solution has a low environmental impact as it avoids disturbing nodule fauna, has no significant plume, no return water and leaves no impact on sediment structure or sediment fauna. The solution is also easily scalable by simply adding more robots.

Justin Hamilton led the funding round, which also included participation from a select group of YC investors. Impossible Mining plans to use the funds from the round to develop and test its robotic collections system and continue developing its bio-extraction technology.

“Lithium-ion battery markets will increase tenfold in the next decade, fueled by growth in EVs,” Hamilton said. “The deep seabed contains the largest global resource of battery metals. The Impossible Mining team has demonstrated its robotics technology showing the capabilities for selective pickup, rising to the challenge of accessing these metals in an environmentally responsible way.”

Along with the funding, Impossible Mining announced its key advisors: Bob Galyen, former CTO of CATL, Dan Lankford, former CEO of AT&T Microelectronics, Europe, Justin Manley, an AUV design expert, Simon Segars, former CEO of ARM and former board member of SoftBank and Phil Straw, CEO of SoftIron.

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Hiring levels for robotics jobs in mining hit year high in May

Brianna Wessling — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 21:39:27 +0000

ADP deployed ten of its robots to aid in surveying the collapsed mine. | Source: ADP

39.7% of mining companies included in an analysis conducted by Mining Technology were recruiting for robotics related positions in May 2022. This marks a year high for hiring robotics jobs in this sector.

In April 2022, just 33.3% of mining companies surveyed had robotics openings, and a year ago, that number was at just 17.9%. The number of mining companies that are looking to fill robotics positions has been steadily rising since February 2022, when 21.1% were looking.

Mining companies are currently hiring for robotics jobs at a higher rate than the average for all companies. In total, 1.2% of newly posted job advertisements in May 2022 were linked to robotics, the highest monthly figure recorded in the past year, according to Mining Technology.

Robotics provide many opportunities in the mining industry, where many jobs are very dangerous for people to perform.

For example, a limestone mine over 100 years old near Crab Orchard Tennessee collapsed suddenly in August 2021. The collapse left an 800 ft across and 100 ft deep surface subsidence area that the US Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) determined was too dangerous for a person to explore.

The mining team used robots from Australian Droid and Robot (ADR) to inspect what was left of the mine, which allows mine workers to determine what was safe and to restore power and communications in the mine.

The robotics industry as a whole is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20% to $568 billion by 2030, according to analysis from Mining Technology.

Editor’s Note: The Field Robotics Engineering Forum will take place on October 19-20, 2022 at the Santa Clara Convention Center. The forum is an international conference and exposition specifically designed to provide engineers, engineering management, business professionals and others, with the information, guidance and peer networking opportunities they need to successfully develop and safely deploy the next generation of robotics systems for operation in wide-ranging, outdoor, dynamic environments.

WTWH Media is currently accepting session abstracts to be considered for presentation at the event. The Field Robotics Engineering Forum is seeking thought-provoking sessions delivered by compelling speakers in each of the four tracks, technologies, tools and platforms, development, testing and deployment, and markets and applications.

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Field Robotics Engineering Forum call for speakers open

Steve Crowe — Tue, 14 Jun 2022 18:54:32 +0000

WTWH Media invites you to submit a session abstract to be considered for presentation at the Field Robotics Engineering Forum, to be held October 19-20, 2022 at the Santa Clara Convention Center, Santa Clara, CA.

The Field Robotics Engineering Forum is an international conference and exposition specifically designed to provide engineers, engineering management, business professionals and others, with the information, guidance and peer networking opportunities they need to successfully develop and safely deploy the next generation of robotics systems for operation in wide-ranging, outdoor, dynamic environments.

The Field Robotics Engineering Forum is seeking thought-provoking sessions delivered by compelling speakers in each of the four tracks listed below:

Technologies, Tools and Platforms Track – Sessions in the Technologies, Tools and Platforms will cover the latest advances in the ‘core’ technologies common to all classes of field robotics systems that allow them to “Sense, Think and Act”.
Development, Testing and Deployment Track – Topics covered in the Development, Testing and Deployment Track focus on robotics design, development, and testing tools, as well as standards and methodologies, that speed and ease the development and deployment of field robotics systems.
Markets and Applications Track – Sessions in the Markets and Applications Track focus on those industry and application specific attributes unique to specific field robotics systems, with sessions providing insights and recommendations into the optimal design, development and deployment choice for specific system classes.

Submission form

Deadline
The entry deadline for submitting speaker proposals is June 30, 2022.

All speakers receive

Complimentary full registration
Admission to all keynotes, general sessions, panels, special events, breakfasts, lunches and receptions
Complimentary guest registrations up to two attendees

Co-located events
The Field Robotics Engineering Forum will be co-located with the RoboBusiness, an international conference and exposition designed to provide engineers, engineering management, business professionals and others, with the information, guidance and peer networking opportunities they require to successfully develop and safely deploy the next generation of field robotics systems for operation in wide-ranging, outdoor, dynamic environments.

Also co-located with RoboBusiness is DeviceTalks West, the premier industry event for medical technology professionals, currently in its ninth year. Both events attract engineering and business professionals from a broad range of healthcare and medical technology backgrounds.

Sponsorship opportunities
For information about sponsorship and exhibition opportunities, download the prospectus. Question regarding sponsorship opportunities should be directed to Courtney Nagle at cnagle[AT]wtwhmedia.com.

Conference programming
For questions regarding RoboBusiness Conference & Expo conference programming, contact Dan Kara at dkara[AT]wtwhmedia.com.

About WTWH Media
WTWH Media is an integrated media company serving engineering, business and investment professionals through 50+ websites, 5 print publications, along with many other technical and business events. WTWH’s Robotics Group produces The Robot Report, Robotics Business Review, Collaborative Robotics Trends and Mobile Robot Guide, online technical, business and investment news and information portals focused on robotics and intelligent systems. WTWH Media also produces leading in-person robotics conferences including the Robotics Summit & Expo, RoboBusiness the Field Robotics Engineering Forum and the Healthcare Robotics Engineering Forum. See www.wtwhmedia.com for more information.

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Teleo announces $12M in Series A funding

Brianna Wessling — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 21:52:31 +0000

Teleo creates retrofit kits for heavy equipment that allows the equipment to operate semi-autonomously. | Source: Teleo

Teleo, a company that creates semi-autonomous retrofit kits for heavy construction and mining equipment, announced it raised $12 million in Series A funding. The company plans to use the funds from the round to scale the deployment of, and invest in research and development for, its Teleo Supervised Autonomy technology.

The company’s autonomy kits can be fitted onto heavy equipment to allow it to run without an operator in the cabin. Teleo’s Supervised Autonomy allows an operator to control multiple pieces of equipment form a remote control station.

“With this Series A funding, we plan to double down on hardening and deploying technology that lets our customers operate their existing fleets of heavy equipment semi-autonomously,” Vinay Shet, co-founder and CEO of Teleo, said.

UP.Partners, a firm that invests in technology that helps transport people and goods faster, safer and cleaner, led the funding round. New investors, F-Prime Capital and K9 Ventures, also participated in the round, as well as Trucks Venture Capital, which led Teleo’s seed funding round.

“Teleo was founded by two exceptional individuals, with extensive backgrounds in deep technology and autonomy. We believe their approach to bringing human supervised autonomy to the heavy equipment market is incredibly insightful and important. Teleo’s technology positively impacts the ROI of operation, while both upskilling the operator community, and increasing safety levels,” Adam Grosser, chairman and managing partner of UP.Partners, said.

Along with the funding, Teleo announced a partnership with RDO Equipment Co., a construction equipment technology supplier and one of John Deere’s largest dealerships. According to the company, partnering with heavy equipment distributors like RDO will allow it to reach customers across multiple distribution channels.

Teleo was founded in 2019 by Shet and Rom Clement, the company’s current CTO. Shet and Clement both worked at Lyft prior to founding Teleo, Shet as the company’s Director of Product Management and Clement as the Head of Hardware Engineering.

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