Robotics World

Visevi Robotics Launches Vision-Based Encoders for Remote Sensing

Visevi Robotics, a Germany-based startup that focuses on computer vision for sensing and grasping on smart robots, has announced new vision-based encoders that can perform generic angular measurement applications without any sensors on the joint. The ViseJoint offering allows for the measurement of one or more multiple joints to be performed remotely, using a computer vision software and a camera that looks onto the joints from a distance. Multiple joints and even kinematic chains are measured simply by looking at them with a camera.

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Celera Motion Expands Aura Absolute Chip Encoder Series

Celera Motion has announced new sizes and capabilities for its Aura Absolute Chip Encoder series of rotary and linear optical encoders with MicroE technology. The new line of products aims to meet all the typical sizes needed in a robot arm – from small end effectors at the end of an arm to the upper shoulder joints. The company said Aura is an optimal solution for high-volume OEM applications, including surgical robots; cobots, robot joints and grippers; exoskeleton and wearables; and semiconductor robots.

Commercial bonding manufacturer 3M has teamed up with systems integrator Innovative Automation to provide industrial manufacturers with an automated solution for tape applications that require precision, repeatability and high output. The RoboTape System for 3M Tape allows manufacturers to gain the benefits of 3M tape in an assembly process, while also maximizing production throughput, improving quality, and reducing manual labor and limiting re-work. The offering provides an improved way to apply 3M tapes precisely for high-volume applications at production speeds that aren’t achievable with manual tape application.

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Cobalt Robotics Launches Enterprise Mobile Video for Security Robots

Cobalt Robotics, which automates repetitive manual security and facility tasks through a robots-as-a-service model, has announced enabling enterprise mobile video chat on its robots. With the upgrade, enterprises can connect staff and visitors with a live employee from their organization or security team first, with backup from Cobalt’s Command Center, through real-time video on the robot wherever the robot is patrolling. The mobile video chat enables clients to connect visitors and staff entering their offices, whether it’s a satellite or launchpad, directly with a receptionist or security officer from the main corporate office via video on the robot for any concerns or questions.

Food automation developer Miso Robotics has announced a partnership with Jack in the Box to begin a pilot program with its Flippy 2 and Sippy robots in one of the restaurant chain’s stand-alone locations, with possible integration occurring in the months ahead. Both Flippy 2 and Sippy leverage artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision and data analytics to maximize efficiency in commercial kitchens. Jack in the Box said it saw a need to revamp its technology roadmap and establish new systems – particularly in the back-of-house – due to continuing staffing changes that were impacting operating hours and costs.

Fascinating new technology revealed at this week’s Xponential 2022 event in Orlando included a family of autonomous boats, such as a 38-foot version that can cruise at up to 80 knots and make tight, high-velocity turns in the water that generate more than 6Gs of force. MARTAC CEO Bruce Hanson noted that its unmanned surface vessels (USVs) can be controlled from anywhere in the world through a choice of communications technology, whether it’s 4G, 5G, or other established standards.

Savioke Acquired, Changes Name to Relay Robotics
Relay Robotics – a new company formed by the acquisition of robotics developer Savioke – has announced completing a $10 million Series A financing round, as well as the appointment of Michael O’Donnell as chairman and CEO. Savioke’s co-founder, Steve Cousins, will become chief technology officer of Relay Robotics and lead the company’s product strategy and innovation efforts, the company said. The Relay delivery robots are currently deployed at major hotels in the U.S., including Marriott, Hilton, Westin, Mandarin Oriental, Holiday Inn and Raidsson, as well as in hospitals and commercial real estate properties.
Boston Group Launches $50M Fund for Early-Stage Robotics Firms
Cybernetix Ventures, an independent venture capital firm that invests in early-stage robotics, automation and artificial intelligence companies, has announced launching its first global fund, headquartered in Boston. The Cybernetix Fund I will focus on pre-seed, seed and Series A investments into companies in the U.S. and around the world that develop robotics solutions for manufacturing, logistics, construction, and healthcare verticals. The fund will also invest in key robotics-enabling software companies in AI and machine learning, cloud robotics, cybersecurity, autonomy, sensors and edge computing.
SparkCognition Partners with UT Austin to Advance AI in Robotics
SparkCognition, which develops artificial intelligence software, has announced a partnership with Texas Robotics at The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin). The partnership will aim to advance AI in robotics and create practical industry applications. The effort will include both primary research on long-term autonomy and student education, using SparkCognition’s HyperWerx facility, an AI proving ground for devices ranging from robots to unmanned aerial vehicles, and factory automation to oil and gas exploration, located on 50 acres in the greater Austin area.
Cobot Maker Universal Robots Reports Record Q1 Revenue
Denmark-based Universal Robots has reported record Q1 revenue of $85 million, up 30% from its Q1 2021 revenue. The news comes on the heels of its report of 2021 revenue, which surpassed $311 million. In January, the company attributed the revenue growth to growing awareness of the contribution that automation can make to productivity, as well as the role of collaborative robots (aka cobots) in supporting businesses facing workforce shortages.