Robot Round Up - Volume 13

Robots tinkering with Watchmakers

In 2021, Tudor Watch revolutionised its watchmaking process with the opening of a state-of-the-art facility, a 5,500-square-metre scarlet building that blends cutting-edge technology with traditional craftsmanship. Located next to the movement manufacturer KENISSI MANUFACTURE , which Tudor mostly owns, this integration eliminates the need to transport components to Geneva, as suppliers are now close by.

Tudor Watch , founded by Hans Wilsdorf as a sister brand to ROLEX , was created to offer timepieces at a more accessible price while maintaining ROLEX 's standard of reliability. Nearly a century later, this commitment to quality continues.

At the heart of the facility is a fully automated stock system, drawing from pharmaceutical industry technology. After being logged, components are transported by robotic arms, which deliver them to watchmakers within minutes, improving efficiency and reducing errors. While technology handles logistics, human hands remain essential. "Every watch is ultimately assembled and inspected by a watchmaker," a Tudor spokesperson explains, "but the know-how of these makers is supercharged by high-tech machinery."

On the climate-controlled first floor, watchmakers work in close-knit teams to carry out tasks like fitting dials, hands, and movements. Roles within the team are rotated, and everyone is trained in all aspects of assembly. RFID tags track each watch's serial numbers and the individuals who worked on it, ensuring meticulous quality control.

Once assembled, the watches are tested on the second floor, which houses 46 tons of equipment. Robots, nicknamed Wall-E and EVE from the hit Disney film, transport watches to various testing stations. The most rigorous testing is reserved for Tudor’s high-performance models, which undergo Metas Master Chronometer certification. This process tests accuracy across different positions and temperatures, as well as resistance to magnetic fields of 15,000 gauss, and water pressure equivalent to depths of 250 metres.

The Metas lab, locked and accessible only to a Metas employee, conducts spot checks on 5 per cent of each batch, rejecting all watches if one fails. Tudor’s combination of traditional craftsmanship and advanced robotics ensures that every watch meets its exacting standards for precision and durability.

GXO partners with Reflex

GXO Logistics, Inc. has announced a new partnership with Reflex Robotics to pilot the use of humanoid robots in its warehouses. Reflex Robotics , a start-up specialising in robotics, will provide GXO Logistics, Inc. with its Reflex Robot, a versatile, out-of-the-box solution designed to be GXO Logistics, Inc. has announced a new partnership with Reflex Robotics to pilot the use of humanoid robots in its warehouses. Reflex Robotics, a startup specialising in robotics, will provide GXO with its Reflex Robot, a versatile, out-of-the-box solution designed to be operational within 60 minutes of deployment. The robot is capable of becoming fully autonomous over time, learning from human demonstrations and adapting to various tasks.

This partnership marks GXO’s second Robots-as-a-Service (RaaS) agreement, furthering the company’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into its operations. The Reflex Robot can seamlessly transition between tasks, such as transferring totes between automation systems and picking products, making it a valuable tool for streamlining warehouse processes.

Adrian Stoch , GXO’s Chief Automation Officer, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "We’re pleased to partner with Reflex to develop applications for its Reflex Robot across various tasks in our warehouses." He highlighted GXO's "operational incubator" programme, which acts as a testing ground for innovative technology in real-world warehouse environments, ensuring practical solutions that add value for customers and employees alike.

Through the pilot programme, GXO is co-developing use cases for the Reflex Robot within an omni-channel fulfilment operation for a Fortune 100 retailer. The long-term goal is to deploy the robots more widely across GXO's facilities, helping alleviate capacity constraints and allowing employees to focus on more meaningful tasks.

Ritesh Ragavender , CEO of Reflex Robotics , expressed excitement about the partnership, noting, "We’re thrilled that GXO, the leading provider of automated logistics solutions, is partnering with us to further their strategy." He also mentioned that working alongside the GXO team has accelerated the company's robot production, enabling them to support key use cases such as shelf picking, order replenishment, and quality assurance.

Ultimately, this collaboration aims to enhance GXO’s operational efficiency while empowering its workforce, marking a significant step forward in the integration of humanoid robots into the logistics industry.. The robot is capable of becoming fully autonomous over time, learning from human demonstrations and adapting to various tasks.

Nvidia Alumni Raise $21.5M For Robotics Simulation Tech ?

After working together for years in various tech roles, Michelle Lu and Kier Storey have now honed in on robotics simulations as the focus of their new venture, Vsim . The two initially joined forces at Bizarre Creations , a Manchester-based games studio, where they worked on building physics engines. Following Bizarre’s acquisition by Activision , the pair continued in game development until Activision eventually shut down the studio. From there, they transitioned to 英伟达 , spending over a decade building simulation technology.

Michelle Lu explains that their interest in robotics simulations emerged from a gap they identified in the market. While robots have been present in industrial settings for many years, the technological advancements in AI, processing power, and mechanics have created a unique opportunity for further innovation. “Back then, we were just some PhD graduates,” Lu reflects on their early days. “Now, with 20 years of experience and discussions with many potential customers, we’ve found the right target for our product.”

Vsim ’s simulation technology aims to go beyond the current capabilities offered by companies like 英伟达 , where Lu and Storey previously worked on similar projects. Their goal is to push robotics simulation to a new level, addressing real-time decision-making for robots operating in dynamic and unpredictable environments.

Sandra Malmberg ?? , a partner at EQT Ventures who led an investment round in Vsim , shares her excitement about the company’s potential. “Simulation is fundamental to many sectors, from research to entertainment, manufacturing, pharma, and robotics,” Malmberg explains. However, current simulation tools are limited in flexibility and designed for static, controlled environments. As robotics applications become more ambitious, there’s a need for high-performance simulations that can handle real-world unpredictability. “This calls for simulations where robots can act quickly, in real-time, and with accuracy,” Malmberg adds. “Vsim is building exactly that, enabling robots to adapt to real-world conditions, and their technology could expand beyond robotics in the future.”

Ultimately, Vsim is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing robotics simulations, helping robots and autonomous machines become more efficient in unpredictable, real-world settings while laying the groundwork for broader applications.

Westhof Utilises Movu Pallet Shuttles

WESTHOF BIO , Germany's leading organic vegetable freezing company, has significantly boosted its storage capacity and operational efficiency by integrating Movu Robotics Atlas pallet shuttles and a stow Racking silo. This new automated deep-freeze system can manage over 5,000 pallets of organic vegetables at -11.2°F, allowing WESTHOF BIO to ensure efficient, reliable storage and retrieval throughout the year.

The state-of-the-art system achieves a throughput of 60 operations per hour, aligning with Westhof BIO’s goal of optimising warehouse processes. This enhancement supports the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality organic vegetables while minimising resource use and environmental impact. WESTHOF BIO , founded in 1998, is renowned for processing exclusively certified organic produce under Bioland, Demeter, and Naturland standards. Its product range includes carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, and many other vegetables, which are shock-frozen at -40°F to preserve freshness.

The company embarked on this project to meet growing demand, processing 10,000 tonnes of organic vegetables annually. The new facility, built in collaboration with K?rber Supply Chain , features advanced automation that allows for high-density deep-freeze storage. The design incorporates roof and wall cladding attached directly to the rack structure, ensuring durability and seamless integration with Westhof BIO’s existing operations.

The system uses six Movu Robotics Atlas pallet shuttles operating across six levels in a 197 ft x 105 ft x 56 ft silo. These shuttles transport pallets to and from designated storage channels, optimising space by minimising the number of driving aisles. The system's scalability enables the facility to accommodate fluctuating demand, particularly during peak seasons, while maintaining ideal storage conditions.

This new storage solution also reflects WESTHOF BIO ’s dedication to sustainability. By adopting energy-efficient technologies, the system reduces energy consumption and minimises the company’s environmental footprint. Fire protection systems, ergonomic workstations, and a robust maintenance plan further ensure operational reliability and safety.

Looking ahead, Westhof BIO plans to expand its storage capacity, implement additional automation technologies, and explore ways to improve product traceability and quality assurance. These initiatives will reinforce its position as a leader in organic vegetable freezing while maintaining a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Stefan Pieters , CEO/CTO of Movu Robotics , highlighted the flexibility and efficiency of the Movu Atlas system, describing it as a "plug and play automation" that adapts to future needs. This modular approach allows for easy scalability, making the system accessible and efficient for long-term success in warehouse automation.

A Big Leap Forward

Leap AI , an Aberdeen-based company specialising in AI-powered robotic solutions for the manufacturing sector, has secured a new investment of ￡7.9 million. This funding round was led by the The Scottish National Investment Bank , contributing ￡3.5 million, alongside investments from Mercia Asset Management PLC and WA Capital. With this backing, Leap AI aims to create new jobs and expand its intellectual property development, further positioning itself as a key player in the robotics industry.

Leap AI technology focuses on delivering flexible, cost-effective robotic automation for companies of all sizes. Initially targeting the food and drinks sector, one of the UK’s priority growth industries, the company aims to address critical labour shortages that have impacted the sector. With these shortages reportedly costing the UK food industry over ￡1.4 billion last year, Leap Automation’s technology provides innovative solutions to streamline production and improve efficiency.

CEO Ben Stuart emphasised the growing demand for such solutions, stating, "We have strived to build simple, flexible, and cost-effective robotic systems that solve our customers' most pressing challenges. The need is greater now than ever before." The new investment will allow Leap to increase its workforce, scale its operations, and further develop its product offerings, helping more businesses tackle their operational challenges.

Jane Reoch , Executive Director at the The Scottish National Investment Bank , highlighted the alignment of Leap Automation with the bank’s mission, noting its role in creating skilled jobs in the northeast of Scotland and supporting the growth of a competitive, diversified economy through innovation. Jonny Nixon , Investment Director at Mercia Ventures, also expressed excitement about the potential of Leap Automation to address key challenges in the current economic climate, including inflation and labour shortages, with a view to boosting productivity across various markets.

The investment adds to Leap Automation’s existing backers, including Scottish Enterprise and Alba Equity , as the company continues to scale and innovate in the robotics and automation space. This funding will enable Leap to enhance its presence in the market and provide critical support to industries facing increasing pressures.

Pickommerce raise $3.4M

Pickommerce AI Robotics , has secured $3.4 million in funding to further develop its PickoBot piece-picking robot. This funding round was led by IL Ventures (ILVP Fund LP) , with participation from InNegev , Fusion VC , Israel Innovation Authority ???? ??????? , and ZIM Ventures, the corporate venture arm of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services . The investment aims to accelerate the development, production, and marketing of PickoBot, which promises to revolutionize warehouse automation by addressing labour shortages and boosting efficiency.

Despite the increasing automation of warehouses, many still rely heavily on human pickers, which is becoming a challenge due to a shortage of tens of millions of workers. Piece-picking robots like PickoBot are seen as a crucial solution for automating warehouse workflows, enhancing productivity, and reducing labour dependency. PickoBot's advanced technology is designed to cater to a wide range of industries, including apparel, retail, e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture, among others.

PickoBot stands out due to its use of an advanced computer vision system powered by machine learning, allowing it to intelligently and safely package objects of varying sizes, weights, and textures. Its multi-gripper system features vacuum, finger-based, and patented adhesive-based grippers, with an AI-driven algorithm selecting the optimal gripper for each item. This patent-protected technology enables PickoBot to handle a wide variety of products with high autonomy, significantly advancing logistics automation.

A recent installation of PickoBot at Havivian Farm, one of Israel’s largest organic farms, highlights its adaptability. PickoBot has successfully automated the farm’s fresh produce packing line, reducing operational costs and improving efficiency. This showcases PickoBot’s capability to handle complex picking and packing tasks, particularly in the context of fresh produce, which is often challenging for automated systems.

Kfir Nissim , co-founder and CEO of Pickommerce AI Robotics , expressed excitement about the market demand for PickoBot, emphasizing its flexibility and the advanced technologies that make it a game-changer in the industry. Yoni Heilbronn , Managing Partner of IL Ventures (ILVP Fund LP) , noted that Pickommerce is disrupting the logistics sector by streamlining automation and setting new standards for efficiency. Boaz Havivian , owner of Havivian Farm, also praised PickoBot for its role in ensuring high-quality packaging and delivery of fresh produce to customers.

With this new funding, Pickommerce AI Robotics is well-positioned to scale its operations and continue pushing the boundaries of warehouse automation.

Thanks for reading into Volume 13. Please don't hesitate to get in touch on any other topics! Please get in touch at [email protected] !