Robotics & Automation News

Market trends and business perspectives

Archives for August 13, 2021

Bosch machine learning trials go live on Fetch.ai

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Fetch.ai, a Cambridge-based artificial intelligence lab building an open-access decentralized machine learning network for smart infrastructure, says the team of the “Economy of Things” (EoT) strategic advance engineering project at Bosch Research will be initiating machine learning trials on the Fetch.ai Collective Learning network.

The system will attempt to predict potential failures in Bosch’s machinery while maintaining data privacy.

The main focus of Bosch Research is the research and implementation of innovative new technologies. Bosch Research originally entered into a collaboration with Fetch.ai in 2019 and deployed a node on a Fetch test network in early 2021. [Read more…] about Bosch machine learning trials go live on Fetch.ai

Ranpak launches ‘completely automated packaging solution’ in North America

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Ranpak, a provider of paper-based packaging solutions for e-commerce and industrial supply chains, has launched its AutoFill solution in North America.

AutoFill is described as a “next-generation, fully automated end-of-line packaging solution that enhances throughput, reduces labor costs, and ensures the optimal amount of void fill in each package”.

Ranpak’s proprietary solution uses smart sensors to scan the package, computing the box size and the volume of objects inside, and then dispenses the optimal amount of paper needed to protect items during shipping. [Read more…] about Ranpak launches ‘completely automated packaging solution’ in North America

ANYbotics boosts autonomous mobile robots with Velodyne lidar sensors

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ANYbotics is equipping its autonomous mobile robots with Velodyne’s Puck lidar sensors. ANYbotics robots provide industrial operators with an automated robotic inspection solution to support efforts in monitoring and maintaining plants.

ANYbotics’ four-legged robot ANYmal performs inspection and monitoring tasks in challenging industrial terrains such as mining and minerals, oil and gas, chemicals, energy and construction.

ANYmal’s legs provide unparalleled mobility when moving up and down stairs, climbing over obstacles, steps and gaps, and crawling into tight spaces. ANYmal’s inspection payload provides visual, thermal and acoustic insights for condition monitoring of equipment and infrastructure. [Read more…] about ANYbotics boosts autonomous mobile robots with Velodyne lidar sensors

Sarcos Robotics and T-Mobile team up to integrate 5G into Guardian XT exoskeleton robot

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Sarcos Robotics, a developer of robotic exoskletons, and telecommunications company T-Mobile, have agreed a collaboration to integrate T-Mobile 5G into the Sarcos Guardian XT highly dexterous mobile industrial robot.

The Guardian XT robot is a remote-controlled robotic system designed to help humans safely work in hazardous conditions, performing tasks such as lifting heavy materials or using power tools at significant heights.

With T-Mobile 5G integration, the companies aim to improve performance and response time for remote operations, so the robots can perform tasks more quickly and more in tune with their operator’s movements. [Read more…] about Sarcos Robotics and T-Mobile team up to integrate 5G into Guardian XT exoskeleton robot

John Deere acquires Bear Flag Robotics for $250 million

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Deere & Company has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Bear Flag Robotics for $250 million.

Founded in 2017, the Silicon Valley-based startup develops autonomous driving technology compatible with existing machines – essentially, it retrofits existing tractors with patented artificial intelligence technology.

Deere says the deal “accelerates the development and delivery of automation and autonomy on the farm” and supports the company’s long-term strategy to create smarter machines with advanced technology to support individual customer needs. [Read more…] about John Deere acquires Bear Flag Robotics for $250 million

Third Wave Automation raises $40 million in new investment

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Third Wave Automation has closed its Series B financing, a $40 million round led by Norwest Venture Partners with participation from prior investors Innovation Endeavors and Eclipse, along with Toyota Ventures.

Third Wave is a startup company which says it has achieved a “breakthrough in machine learning, computer vision and robotic material manipulation”.

The additional funds will accelerate growth and commercialization efforts. As a part of the changes, Matt Howard, general partner at Norwest Venture Partners, will join Third Wave’s board of directors.

Howard says: “I’ve been tracking Arshan and the team at Third Wave for some time and have been consistently impressed. [Read more…] about Third Wave Automation raises $40 million in new investment

Baidu launches multi-purpose autonomous minibus

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Baidu, the Chinese internet search giant which also has an autonomous vehicle business unit called Apollo, has launched what it describes as “a new generation of multi-purpose autonomous minibuses”. 

Named “Apolong II”, the new vehicles are being rolled out in Guangzhou Huangpu District.

The Apolong II is equipped with advanced autonomous driving capabilities and the latest in-vehicle smart cabin technologies to enhance passenger experience. [Read more…] about Baidu launches multi-purpose autonomous minibus

Pratt & Whitney selects Webcon to accelerate digital transformation

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Pratt & Whitney, a world leader in the design, manufacturing and service of aircraft and helicopter engines and auxiliary power units, has chosen Webcon BPS as its enterprise-grade, low-code process management and automation platform to digitalize business processes and accelerate its digital transformation to align with the new remote work reality.

Jocelyn Brulé, Pratt & Whitney digital technology manager, says: “As an industry leader, we must not only ensure operational efficiency, but also focus on innovation. Therefore, for many years we have been using low-code platforms to digitize business processes.

“Webcon BPS, used in our Polish division, was one of them. Due to the efficiency, transparency and speed by which we’ve been able to use it to deliver business applications, and how easily the platform enables change management, we decided to roll it out globally. [Read more…] about Pratt & Whitney selects Webcon to accelerate digital transformation