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Gecko-inspired adhesive offers a bio-inspired twist on robotic handling

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Researchers develop a technique to allow fragile objects to be transferred and released by robotics, without damage, while using a gecko inspired adhesive.

The subtle adhesive forces that allow geckos to seemingly defy gravity, cling to walls and walk across ceilings have inspired a team of researchers in South Korea to build a robotic device that can pick up and release delicate materials without damage.

The team, based at Kyungpook National University and Dong-A University, has published their research work in Science and Technology of Advanced Materials, an international science journal.

The researchers are hoping it can be applied to the transfer of objects by robotic systems. [Read more…] about Gecko-inspired adhesive offers a bio-inspired twist on robotic handling

Gecko Robotics to help ‘increase speed of nuclear submarine manufacturing process’

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Gecko Robotics, a specialist advanced robotics and software company, has reached agreement on a new demonstration contract with the US Navy to help modernize the manufacturing process for the $132 billion Columbia-class nuclear submarine program.

Gecko will use its advanced weld inspection and data capabilities to help the Navy decrease inspection time and reduce costs during the manufacturing process, while also providing a baseline of data to improve in-service maintenance cycles.

Jake Loosararian CEO and co-founder of Gecko Robotics, says: “We are proud to grow our partnership with the US Navy beyond helping get ships through the maintenance process faster, to providing advanced manufacturing capabilities for the Columbia-class program. [Read more…] about Gecko Robotics to help ‘increase speed of nuclear submarine manufacturing process’

Gecko Robotics launches ‘AI-driven’ data collection and analysis platform for industrial hardware

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Gecko Robotics, a specialist developer and supplier of ultrasonic inspection robots, has launched its “AI-driven” data collection and analysis platform for industrial hardware – called “Cantilever”.

The “first-of-its-kind solution” integrates data from Gecko’s various robotic, fixed-sensor, and partner systems into a software platform that enables “unparalleled analysis and decision making about asset health”.

Gecko says that, by bringing together data layers that were not previously possible, Cantilever drives important decisions for customers that increase uptime, decrease costs, and eliminate safety issues. [Read more…] about Gecko Robotics launches ‘AI-driven’ data collection and analysis platform for industrial hardware

Industrial inspection startup Gecko Robotics raises $73 million

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Gecko Robotics, a specialist in robotics and industrial asset management software, has revealed details of its Series C funding round of $73 million, led by XN with participation from Founders Fund, XYZ, Drive Capital, Snowpoint Ventures, Joe Lonsdale, Mark Cuban, Gokul Rajaram, and others.

The company says this latest funding round accelerates Gecko’s stated mission, “To protect today’s critical infrastructure, and give form to tomorrow’s”.

Co-founded by Jake Loosararian, CEO, and Troy Demmer, chief product officer, Gecko focuses on essential industries such as power generation, oil and gas, heavy manufacturing, and defense. [Read more…] about Industrial inspection startup Gecko Robotics raises $73 million

OnRobot unveils compact Gecko gripper for smaller jobs

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OnRobot, a global leader in robotic end-of-arm tooling, has launched a compact, single-pad version of its innovative Gecko no-mark adhesive gripper.

The new Gecko Single Pad (SP) gripper brings the previous model’s revolutionary adaptability to more varied applications with smaller payloads.

It is available in three sizes, SP1, SP3 and SP5, indicating the different grippers’ lifting capacities in kilos. [Read more…] about OnRobot unveils compact Gecko gripper for smaller jobs

Gecko Robotics raises $40 million in funding for energy infrastructure inspection robots

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Gecko Robotics has raised $40 million in funding to develop its energy infrastructure inspection robots.

A Y-Combinator alum, Gecko Robotics raised the $40 million in its Series B round, which was led by Drive Capital.

Gecko already partners with the largest brands in power, oil and gas and manufacturing industries. [Read more…] about Gecko Robotics raises $40 million in funding for energy infrastructure inspection robots

OnRobot opens research and development facility in Los Angeles

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New office location in Culver City provides OnRobot opportunity to attract talent and add new products to a portfolio including robotic grippers inspired by lizards and sensors lending a human touch to robot arms

OnRobot, a provider of end-of-arm tooling for collaborative robot applications, has opened its first location specifically dedicated to research and development in the United States.

Based in Culver City in Los Angeles, California, the new office area boasts 6,000 square feet for engineers, researchers and local staff to work and develop new products. Last year marked OnRobot’s first foray into the LA area, as it acquired Perception Robotics.

With this acquisition, OnRobot brought the award winning Gecko Gripper technology into its product offerings and developed it for commercial launch. [Read more…] about OnRobot opens research and development facility in Los Angeles