|
From the Editor
New ROEQ Top Modules; Agriculture Robot Funding Grows
Robots continue to do more and more amazing things to help humans with their tasks. For example, ROEQ just launched new top modules that support heavier payload capacities for MiR’s autonomous mobile robots, which means logistics and warehouse companies can fill online orders for heavier equipment more easily than before. GrayMatter Robotics, which last week emerged from stealth mode, has new software that can handle surface finishing tasks such as sanding and spraying for large parts. The system accomplishes this by scanning an object and uses its AI brain to figure out the most optimal path for scanning. For manufacturers struggling with finding labor for these processes, this automated system should be a boon for them. Check out our exclusive Q&A with the CEO of GrayMatter to learn more. – Keith Shaw, Managing Editor
|
|
|
|
ROEQ Launches New Top Models to Boost Payloads for AMRs
Denmark’s ROEQ has announced the launch of two new top modules and accessories that boost the payload and lifting capabilities of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) from Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR). The new ROEQ TMS-C1500 allows MiR AMRs to transport up to 1,500 kg for the first time. The company also launched the TML200 top module, with a stroke of 40 mm that can lift loads carried by the MiR250 robot. The TMS-C1500, combined with the new S-Cart1500W shelf cart, can greatly increase the payload capabilities for MiR’s MiR500, MiR600, MiR1000 and MiR1350 models. Payload capacities for the 500 and 600 module allow up to 800 kg, where previously they could only lift up to 400 kg.
|
|
|
MicroSys, Hailo Partner on Embedded AI Platform
MicroSys Electronics has announced a partnership with artificial intelligence chipmaker Hailo to launch its miriac AIP-LX2160A embedded platform, which can host up to five integrated Hailo-8 AI accelerator modules. The new edge server-grade AI solution enables high-performance and scalable AI inference capabilities at the edge. The platform offers a high bandwidth and power-efficient solution at the edge, benefiting several applications in Industry 4.0, automotive, and heavy machinery, among others. Powered by the NXP QorIQ Layerscape LX2160A high-throughput processor, the miriac AIP-LX2160A can integrate multiple advanced Hailo-8 AI accelerators, offering best-in-class processing performance and deep learning capabilities of up to 130 tera-operations per second (TOPS).
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Celera Motion Launches Ultra-Lightweight Inductive Angle Encoder
Celera Motion has announced a new device for precision angle measurement: a compact, ultra-lightweight inductive angle encoder that can be ideal for several surgical, medical, and industrial robotics. The IncOder CORE is a non-contact device that features the company’s robust and reliable position sensing technology, all fully contained in a stacked printed circuit board (PCB) kit that reduces OEM system mass. IncOder CORE is well suited for integration into rotary joints. The position sensor utilizes a unique field-proven inductive technique, delivering highly repeatable, reliable and temperature-stable performance. The encoder is designed primarily for segments including surgical robots, medical robots, rotary actuators, and industrial robotic systems.
|
|
|
Vecow, Blaize Collaborate on Edge AI Computing System
Vecow, which develops embedded systems, and Blaize, which develops edge computing systems, have announced the launch of the Vecow ECX-2400 workstation-grade AI Computing System. The ECX-2400 uses Blaize’s Graph Streaming Processor (GSP) to deliver AI performance with higher system reliability, lower power consumption and faster time-to-market. The system is aimed for public security, robotic control, traffic vision, and any Industry 4.0 or AI applications at the edge to give a better total cost of ownership. Powered by 10-core 10th generation Intel Xeon Core i9/i7/i5/i3 processors, and incorporating the Blaize Xplorer X1600P PCI series AI accelerator card, the system supports up to 80 TOPS of AI inference performance in a compact and ruggedized configuration, the companies said. To address industrial requirements, the ECX-2400 AI features smart system protection functions, including 12V to 50V wide range DC power input, 80V surge protection, software ignition power control and even 250W system power budget, making it useful for any mission-critical AI accelerating tasks at the edge.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pudu Robotics Unveils Advanced Building Delivery Robot
China’s Pudu Robotics has announced the global launch of its first-generation building delivery robot. FlashBot is the latest autonomous mobile robot from the company, armed with advanced Internet of Things technology for building delivery service. This includes the ability of the robot to take an elevator to provide safe and reliable room delivery for hotels and office buildings, giving customers a contactless delivery option. By setting up an operating instruction via an app, FlashBot can automatically call and take the elevator safely without manual intervention, said Pudu Robotics. The robot can also remind customers to pick up food and parcels by sending a message with the pickup code, or calling the customer directly. With its built-in autonomous positioning and navigation system, cross-floor delivery is made easier.
|
|
|
|
FANUC Offers Retrofit Security Program for CNC Systems
FANUC America has announced an upgrade solution for legacy CNC machines that run on operating systems older than Windows 10. The Panel i Replacement Program retrofits FANUC CNCs with an industrial PC available with touch or non-touch LCD screen, solid-state drives and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise. Systems that run on obsolete operating systems, such as Windows 7, XP or older, are no longer supported by Microsoft, which means they do not receive critical updates. If machines connect to an online network, this opens the chance of a major cybersecurity breach on sensitive manufacturing equipment. Retrofitting industrial PCs on these machines allows businesses to safely and securely connect their CNCs to their network, to take advantage of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) data.
|
|
|
|
|
In Case You Missed It
Honda Outlines Technology Strategy, Includes Avatar Robot and eVTOL Aircraft
Honda Motor Co. has announced the technology development direction the company is pursuing while leveraging its core technologies. The direction will lead to the fulfillment of Honda’s 2030 Vision of serving people worldwide with the “joy of expanding their life’s potential.” The new initiatives include an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, an avatar robot with the goal of expanding the range of human ability, and a new challenge in the field of outer space. Honda said the new initiatives are made possible by core technologies Honda has amassed to date, including technologies around combustion, electrification, control, and robotics.
Read More
|
|
|
Featured Article
Locomation, Aon Develop Risk Management Plan for Autonomous Trucking
Locomation, a Pittsburgh-based provider of autonomous truck technology, has announced a collaboration with Aon plc to develop a risk management plan as Locomation plans commercial deployment of its autonomous freight transport and backend platform. Aon, a professional services firm that provides a range of risk, retirement, and health solutions, will work with Locomation and insurance carriers to assess the autonomous technology risks and align them with insurance industry best practices. The collaboration will also aim to support one of Locomation’s long-term goals of reducing customers’ operating costs through lower insurance rates for carriers, shippers, truck manufacturers, and others using the company’s autonomous truck technology.
Read More
|
|
|
News for Robot Makers
- Citadel Defense Earns Multiple U.S. Contracts for Counter-Drone Systems
Citadel Defense has announced it received three new counter unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) contracts from the U.S. government for their newest product, Titan Drone Finder (Titan DF). The latest solution allows operators to track drones, their flight path, and autonomously neutralize threats that cross a user-defined alert zone. The company said its rapidly growing family of Titan C-UAS systems creates a distinct operational advantage for servicemen and servicewomen on the front lines. When defending against swarms and difficult-to-detect threats, AI-powered combat systems like Titan allow operators to identify and terminate enemy UAS threats with speed, accuracy, and reliability.
View Video
- Veo Robotics Adds New Partners to Integrator Program
Veo Robotics, which develops systems to improve the safety and flexibility of industrial robots, has announced adding two more systems integrators to its Certified Systems Integrator Program. ABCO Automation and PDSI are the latest members of the program to help companies integrate Veo’s FreeMove system, a 3D safeguarding system that implements dynamic speed and separation monitoring to enable safe and effective human-robot collaboration. ABCO Automation, located in North Carolina, specializes in custom design-build services, fully automated turnkey systems, and build-to-print projects. The company has been in business for more than 40 years, and services a client base across North America and the world. PDSI, located in Ohio, supplies automated solutions in the design and build of custom equipment, including assembly, welding, and test equipment, as well as integrated robot systems. The companies will offer Veo’s FreeMove as part of its solution offerings to customers.
|
|
|
Funding News
Starfish Space Raises $7M to Develop Robotic Space Tug
Starfish Space, a satellite servicing company founded by former Blue Origin engineers, has announced it raised $7 million in funding. The company is developing the Otter space tug, an efficient and versatile satellite servicing vehicle that can capture and move objects in orbit. Up until now, missions to service existing satellites on-orbit, such as the Hubble Space Telescope, have been too large and expensive to be commercially available. With the rapid evolution of the space industry increasing demand for on-orbit satellite servicing, missions such as debris removal and satellite life extension will become a necessity as humans pusho toward on-orbit manufacturing and assembly.
Read More
|
|
MetoMotion Raises $5M to Advance Robotic Automation for Greenhouses
MetoMotion, an Israel-based developer of intelligent robotics systems to help growers operate farms of the future, has announced completing a $5 million investment round. The company said the funds will be used to finalize research and development activities, set up production and marketing activities, and launch the commercial product. The MetoMotion GRoW robot brings the latest technologies into the greenhouse, using artificial intelligence-based computing for 3D perception. Specially designed and flexible motion control and path-planning algorithms give the robot precise motion between plants, and a unique design that fits the greenhouse environment. Dual arms enable harvesting on both sides of a greenhouse row.
Read More
|
|
|
Funding News
Burro Raises $10.9M to Commercialize Mobile Agriculture Robot
Burro, formerly known as Augean Robotics, has announced it raised $10.9 million in a Series A funding round. The company’s mobile and collaborative robots provide outdoor assistance for work that people no longer want to do, as well as lay the foundation for more comprehensive automation later. Growers of labor-intensive specialty crops such as table grapes, berries and nursery crops are largely un-mechanized, Burro said. Out of necessity this requires that growers employ about 88% of U.S. crop workers to do a diverse set of hard-to-mechanize tasks. This workforce has shrunk rapidly in recent years. For example, California, where the bulk of specialty crops in the U.S. are grown, has seen a 40% decline in the number of farmworkers over the past decade, driven by the strenuous nature of farm labor, increasing regulations, and rising wages.
Read More
|
|
Activ Surgical Raises $45M to Advance AR Surgery Platform
Digital surgery firm Activ Surgical has announced it raised $45 million in a Series B financing round. The company’s hardware-agnostic platform and ActivInsights augmented reality (AR) software suite enables autonomous and collaborative surgery through integrating computer vision, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics. The company said it will use the Series B financing round to support the commercial availability of the ActivInsights software suite, including the first Insight – an AR-based overlay that displays tissue perfusion in real time without the use of traditional dyes. Activ Surgical also said it will use the funds to support commercialization in the U.S., pursue a CE mark in support of a global rollout, and further enhance the software platform and to develop its first ML-based insights.
Read More
|
|
About Us
Unsubscribe
Privacy Policy
|
This email was sent to @. |
|