In Episode 180 of The Robot Report Podcast, we feature an interview with Chris Savoia, Head of Ecosystem Success, Americas UR
In this conversation, Chris Savoia, head of ecosystem success at Universal Robots, discusses the evolution of collaborative robots, the importance of education and reskilling in automation, and the recent advancements in higher payload robots and mobile manipulators. He also shares insights from his podcast, Re-Automated, and highlights the significance of the new Polyscope X platform for developers. In this conversation, Chris Savoia discusses the advancements in robotics, focusing on the value proposition of connecting robots, the enhancements brought by MotionPlus, and the importance of cybersecurity in connected systems. He elaborates on the OptiMove feature that optimizes robot control, and the evolution of UR Plus with new partnerships and solutions. Savoia also shares insights on the future of robotics, emphasizing the potential growth in the industry and the impact of AI.
Humanoid news this week
Figure AI has successfully shipped its advanced humanoid robot, Figure 02, to a paying customer. While the identity of the customer remains undisclosed, it’s worth noting that BMW Group previously collaborated with Figure AI by testing Figure 02 in their South Carolina production plant. This trial, conducted in August 2024, focused on assessing the robot’s capabilities in handling delicate sheet-metal components. Notably, BMW had also previously evaluated Figure AI’s earlier model, Figure 01. This successful delivery of Figure 02 signifies a significant milestone for Figure AI, demonstrating the growing commercial interest in their cutting-edge humanoid robotics technology. Figure AI won a 2024 RBR50 award for its rapid pace of innovation. Since emerging from stealth in January 2023, the Sunnyvale, Calif.-based company has built and iterated on a working humanoid and tested its robot on a production line.
In a related story: Open Droids develops both single and dual-arm mobile manipulators. Open Droids exhibited at RoboBusinessalbeit without bringing a robot, however, the company will be at CES in Las Vegas next week with the R1D1, a single arm mobile manipulator. Cohost Mike Oitzman will visit the company booth at CES and document this robot next week on the Best of CES episode.
Zebra to acquire Photoneo Brightpick Group
Zebra Technologies has announced its intention to acquire the vision unit from Photoneo Brightpick Group. Following the acquisition, Photoneo Brightpick Group will rebrand itself as Brightpick and operate independently, concentrating on the development and deployment of AI-powered robots for warehouse automation. Notably, Brightpick was recognized as the 2024 RBR50 Application of the Year winner. This acquisition builds upon Zebra’s previous investments in robotics, including the $290 million acquisition of AMR provider Fetch Robotics in 2021. Zebra has consistently expanded its robotics portfolio, as evidenced by the introduction of new mobile robots, accessories, and scanners at MODEX 2024, and the expansion of its offerings for manufacturers in May. The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed, and the acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions. The companies anticipate finalizing the deal in the first quarter of 2025.
End-of-the-year recap
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