Big Box Robots - Industrial Robotics Solutions

The Current Focus on Warehouse Robotics

It’s worth acknowledging the diverse range of exciting developments within the robotics industry. However, current attention is overwhelmingly directed towards warehouse fulfillment. This concentration is logical, given the competitive landscape dominated by Amazon and its advancements in robotics technology – a situation where considerations regarding human labor also come into play.

The Competitive Pressure on Robotics Companies

Executives at leading fulfillment robotics firms consistently express the challenge of competing with Amazon’s capabilities. The response to this challenge, while perhaps unsettling, often centers on increased automation as a primary solution.

Boston Dynamics' Shift Towards Purpose-Built Robotics

Boston Dynamics’ latest robotic offering is specifically designed for warehouse environments, marking a significant evolution for the company. While Spot served as a versatile platform with varied applications, Stretch represents the company’s first robot engineered with a defined purpose.

Stretch’s development stemmed from previous models like Handle and Atlas, but its core function is the efficient movement of boxes. Initially, this translates to unloading trucks and organizing pallets within the warehouse. The potential for growth in this sector is substantial, making Boston Dynamics’ scaling strategy, particularly in light of the potential Hyundai acquisition, a key area to observe.

Recent Funding Rounds in Fulfillment Robotics

Several noteworthy funding rounds have recently occurred within the fulfillment robotics sector. China is emerging as a significant player, exemplified by Beijing-based ForwardX Robotics’ $63 million Series B raise. This funding, led by CDH, Eastern Bell, and Dohold Capital, will facilitate expansion in the U.S., China, Japan, the U.K., and Germany.

According to founder/CEO Nicolas Chee, this investment will fuel continued growth and market penetration.

Ambi Robotics and the Pick and Place Specialization

Ambi Robotics secured a $6.1 million seed round while simultaneously exiting stealth mode. Founded by UC Berkeley professor Ken Goldberg, a respected figure in the field, the company focuses on pick and place robotics with its AmbiSort and AmbiKit machines. This startup is poised to attract considerable attention.

Skycatch's Drone Technology and Real-World Deployment

Skycatch recently announced a $25 million raise. The company has successfully transitioned 3D imaging drone technology from concept to practical application, deploying its drones to thousands of locations globally. We have covered Skycatch’s progress over several years.

The Rise of Delivery Robotics

The delivery robotics category is demonstrating increasing real-world viability, particularly in light of ongoing concerns surrounding COVID-19. While a complete replacement of delivery personnel isn’t imminent, numerous companies and cities are actively testing these systems.

Cartken, founded by former Google engineers, is now conducting trials in Miami, a city frequently highlighted as a desirable location.

Nuro's Significant Funding and Toyota's Investment

Nuro has garnered substantial interest, securing a $500 million Series C round in November. Further details emerged this week, revealing that Toyota’s Woven Capital participated in the funding. George Kellerman, head of investments and acquisitions at Woven Capital, shared insights with TechCrunch.