Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Greenfield Robotics Launches Public Share Offering to Raise $18.6 Million
Greenfield Robotics, based in Kansas, has initiated a public share offering aiming to raise up to $18.6 million through a Regulation A+ offering on StartEngine. The company currently operates 82 autonomous robots across 16 states, which mechanically cut weeds to replace herbicides. As of now, over $428,000 has been raised from investors. This offering is significant as it comes amid increasing legal and regulatory pressures on traditional herbicides, which Greenfield's robots are designed to replace. The company has sold out its 2026 season, generating over $1 million in robot sales. With a growing number of shareholders, Greenfield is positioned to expand its autonomous platform to include additional agricultural tasks in the future. Looking ahead, Greenfield plans to enhance its robots' capabilities by adding tasks such as feeding crops at night, seeding, and planting cash crops. The company has also shifted its commercial model from pay-per-use to outright sales, with a lease option expected to be announced soon. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Field robots automation autonomous farm equipment investment mechanical weeder robotic harvesting
Raise Robotics to Address Scaling Challenges for Field Robots at RoboBusiness 2026
At RoboBusiness 2026, Kenrick Tjandra from Raise Robotics will present on leadership strategies for scaling field robotics. He emphasizes that the gap between current capabilities and customer needs is often a leadership issue rather than a hardware limitation. Raise Robotics, based in San Francisco, has achieved a significant milestone by completing 10 projects across eight states, accumulating over 4,528 robot-hours without safety incidents. Tjandra's framework, peer-reviewed by the Project Production Institute, aims to guide teams in deciding whether to enhance product features or develop operator training. Attendees at the session will learn valuable decision-making tools and insights from Tjandra's experiences, including lessons from past failures. The event, scheduled for October 20-21 in Santa Clara, California, will also provide networking opportunities and insights into the latest trends in robotics and AI across various sectors.
Actuators / Motors / Servos Construction Events Markets / Industries News Technologies
Addressing Field Service Challenges in Robotics Maintenance and Support
The robotics industry is increasingly focused on the deployment and sales of robots, yet there is a significant gap in discussions regarding post-deployment support. Specifically, the challenges of field service are becoming apparent as robots require maintenance and repairs after installation. For instance, when a sensor malfunctions in a remote location, it can lead to operational downtime and increased costs. This issue is critical as the reliance on robots in various sectors grows, making effective field service essential for maintaining productivity and efficiency. The ability to quickly address technical failures, such as a sensor issue occurring 900 miles away from the nearest engineer, is vital for ensuring that robotic systems continue to function optimally. As the industry evolves, the importance of robust support systems will become increasingly evident. Looking ahead, companies must prioritize the development of efficient field service strategies to mitigate potential bottlenecks in robotics maintenance. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Caterpillar Collaborates with FieldAI to Enhance Physical AI and Autonomous Robotics
Caterpillar has announced a partnership with FieldAI to advance physical AI and robotics aimed at improving safety and efficiency in jobsites and factories. This collaboration seeks to address labor shortages and productivity demands by transforming real-time observations into actionable insights, enhancing decision-making and maximizing the effectiveness of workers and machines. The significance of this partnership lies in its potential to reshape industries by integrating human expertise with AI-powered machines. Caterpillar's Chief Technology Officer, Jaime Mineart, emphasized the importance of applying AI to improve safety and productivity, thereby delivering greater value to operations. This initiative aligns with Caterpillar's vision for a future where intelligent machines and digital insights create safer and more productive work environments. Looking ahead, Caterpillar's collaboration with FieldAI is expected to accelerate the development of practical solutions that enhance operational efficiency across complex jobsites and manufacturing environments. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
ASI's Mel Torrie to Discuss Advancements in Field Robotics at RoboBusiness 2026
Autonomous Solutions Inc. (ASI) is enhancing existing field equipment with autonomy, addressing challenges in remote and rugged locations. Mel Torrie, ASI's founder and CEO, predicts significant advancements in mobile robotics for outdoor applications over the next decade. He emphasizes the need for autonomous vehicles to support integration and collaboration among platforms to boost productivity. The intersection of autonomous vehicles and advanced robotics is set to revolutionize field deployments, according to Torrie. At RoboBusiness 2026, he will lead a session titled "Designing the Robotics Ecosystem for Outdoor Autonomy," sharing insights on creating a cooperative ecosystem where robotics and autonomous vehicles work together. This collaboration is expected to enhance operational efficiency and safety in challenging environments. Attendees at RoboBusiness 2026 will gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of robotics and AI, with a focus on practical applications across various sectors. The event will also provide networking opportunities for professionals in the field, fostering connections that could lead to future collaborations and innovations.
Agriculture Construction Events Markets / Industries News asi
Field Days: A New Approach for Evaluating Ag Robotics Startups in Agriculture
On August 6, over 250 growers, investors, and startup teams from the US, Brazil, and Europe participated in a Connect field day, showcasing advanced AI technology for automating leafy greens. This event, part of the UC ANR Innovate program, highlights the importance of real-world testing in assessing startup viability. The Connect program, developed by Connie Bowen and Hannah Johnson, emphasizes the significance of field days in evaluating startup teams. Investors often struggle to assess teams effectively, but field days provide critical insights into a startup's potential for long-term success. Founders who excel at these events often secure commercial contracts, while those who do not receive constructive feedback for improvement. Looking ahead, the Connect program plans to host more field days through 2027, offering startups opportunities to demonstrate their solutions to California's farming industry. The focus remains on fostering meaningful connections between technology providers and growers, ensuring that innovations genuinely address agricultural challenges.
Agtech Artificial intelligence Precision agriculture US & Canada
DGIST Professor Proposes 'Sustainability Robotics' as a New Academic Field
Professor Sukho Song from DGIST's Department of Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering has introduced the concept of 'Sustainability Robotics.' This new academic field aims to assess robots based on their technical performance as well as their impact on environmental, social, and economic sustainability. The significance of this initiative lies in its holistic approach to robotics, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices in technology development. By integrating sustainability into the evaluation of robotic systems, the field seeks to foster innovations that contribute positively to society and the environment. Looking ahead, the establishment of 'Sustainability Robotics' could influence future research and development priorities in the robotics sector. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Robotics
Fieldwork Robotics Receives £2.5 Million Investment for Berry Harvesting Automation
Fieldwork Robotics has secured a £2.5 million investment from SEED Innovations to enhance its selective and modular berry harvesting robots. This funding is part of a Seed+ fundraising initiative announced in April 2026, aimed at addressing labor shortages and rising costs in berry production. The investment will facilitate the transition from technology validation to commercial trials, with production robots already deployed in a two-year program in Norfolk and Stafford. The significance of this investment lies in its potential to alleviate pressing challenges faced by berry growers, including labor shortages and increased harvesting costs. By utilizing autonomous harvesting robots, Fieldwork aims to boost productivity and reduce reliance on seasonal labor, thereby minimizing food waste and stabilizing consumer prices. Jim Mellon, chairman of SEED Innovations, emphasizes the opportunity for robotics and AI to tackle real-world agricultural issues, aligning with Fieldwork's mission to enhance farm efficiency. Looking ahead, Fieldwork Robotics anticipates operating multi-robot fleets on farms by 2027, contingent on the success of ongoing trials. Additionally, the company plans to expand its operations internationally, with trials set to take place in Australia as part of its global growth strategy. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Agriculture Financials & Investments agri robotics agricultural robotics agriculture automation
Milrem Robotics Utilizes Ukraine Battlefield Insights to Enhance Unmanned Systems
Milrem Robotics, based in Tallinn, Estonia, is leveraging battlefield experiences from Ukraine to advance its unmanned ground vehicle technology. The THeMIS platform, which is currently deployed for logistics missions in Ukraine, demonstrates the growing reliance on unmanned systems in high-risk areas, reducing the danger to personnel and providing strategic advantages. The significance of this development lies in the ongoing challenges faced by conventional logistics on the front lines, as highlighted by Milrem's CEO Kuldar Vaarsi. With reconnaissance and attack drones making traditional vehicles vulnerable, Ukrainian forces are increasingly adopting unmanned vehicles for supply transport over distances of 10 to 20 kilometers, with over 200 units expected to be operational by year-end. Looking ahead, Milrem is adapting its designs based on combat feedback, emphasizing simplicity and ease of operation for soldiers with minimal training. The company’s ARCOS software aims to integrate various robotic systems, enhancing interoperability across different platforms, which is crucial for future military operations.
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Barbara Mazzolai Advocates for Sustainability in Robotics Through Bioinspired Designs
Roboticist Barbara Mazzolai is pioneering a new field called 'sustainability robotics,' which aims to harmonize technology with environmental stewardship. As the associate director for robotics at the Italian Institute of Technology, she emphasizes the importance of reducing the ecological footprint of robotic technologies. Mazzolai's work draws inspiration from nature, including octopuses and plant roots, to create robots that can interact with their environments responsibly. Mazzolai's vision for sustainability robotics was articulated in a manifesto published in Nature Machine Intelligence, where she calls for a shift in how robots are designed, integrating sustainability as a core principle. This approach not only addresses the environmental impact of robotics but also opens new possibilities for societal applications. Her background in biology and engineering uniquely positions her to lead this innovative research direction. Looking ahead, Mazzolai's exploration of plant-inspired robotics could revolutionize environmental monitoring and precision agriculture. As she continues to advocate for this new paradigm, the robotics community will be watching closely to see how her ideas evolve and influence future developments in the field. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Soft-robot Typedepartments Environmental-footprint Biology Italian-institute-of-technology
Robotics Price War Intensifies as Mantis Standard Launches Affordable Wheeled Humanoid
The ongoing price war in robotics reveals a significant challenge: most humanoid robots remain as fixed, one-time purchases. According to Counterpoint Research, global shipments of humanoid robots are expected to exceed 22,000 units in the first half of 2026, marking a nearly 300% year-on-year increase. However, over 60% of these robots are used for entertainment and educational purposes, with only 13% in smart manufacturing and a mere 5% in logistics. Despite some price reductions making humanoid robots more accessible, the distinction between a functional robot and a large toy is not as clear-cut as anticipated. The most valuable capabilities for robots are still their ability to perform tasks effectively, which is rarely achieved by low-cost models. On September 14, the company launched its first modular wheeled humanoid robot, Mantis Standard, priced at 9,800 yuan, featuring an omnidirectional wheel chassis, a 7-degree-of-freedom robotic arm, and a 4K60fps dual-vision system. The design of Mantis Standard emphasizes practicality over performance, as wheeled humanoid robots are deemed more suitable for industrial applications compared to bipedal models. PwC's report supports this view, highlighting wheeled robots' advantages in efficient movement and terrain adaptability for commercial applications. Since 2025, the parallel development of wheeled and bipedal robots has been evident, with many companies incorporating both into their product lines, showcasing wheeled robots' stability and flexibility in service and light industries.
Humanoid Robots Modular Robotics Wheeled Robots Robot Automation
Carbon Robotics Enhances Laser Weeding with iMerit for Instant AI Customization
Carbon Robotics has introduced a large plant model that allows farmers to customize their laser weeder for specific crops and weeds in minutes. This innovation replaces traditional crop-specific AI models, enabling instant adjustments without retraining. Farmers can use an iPad app to tag plants, allowing the weeder to adapt to various crops across different regions. The significance of this development lies in its ability to streamline the weeding process, enhancing efficiency and reducing the time needed for farmers to adapt to new crops or weeds. By leveraging a foundation model trained on 150 million labeled plants, Carbon Robotics empowers farmers to optimize their weeding strategies instantly, improving soil health by returning nutrients from removed weeds. Looking ahead, the partnership with iMerit has proven crucial for the data annotation process, enabling Carbon Robotics to scale its model training effectively. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Agriculture Artificial Intelligence Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) News Self-Driving Vehicles Sensors / Sensing Systems
ForwardX Robotics Releases Whitepaper on Scaling AMRs in Existing Manufacturing Facilities
ForwardX Robotics has launched a new whitepaper that explores the engineering capabilities necessary for deploying and scaling autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) in existing manufacturing environments. This initiative comes as manufacturers seek to enhance automation in their facilities while ensuring production continuity. The whitepaper highlights the potential of AMRs to improve internal material flow in brownfield environments, which often require minimal changes to existing factory infrastructure. However, it also addresses the unique challenges posed by these environments, which extend beyond simple robot navigation. As the industry moves towards greater automation, stakeholders should monitor how ForwardX Robotics' insights can influence the adoption of AMRs in brownfield settings. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Boston Dynamics and FieldAI Collaborate to Enhance Robotics in Dynamic Construction Environments
Boston Dynamics and FieldAI have announced a partnership aimed at advancing robotics in construction and other complex environments. This collaboration merges Boston Dynamics' robotic platforms with FieldAI's Field Foundation Models™ (FFMs), enabling autonomous operations in unpredictable spaces, such as construction sites where conditions frequently change. The significance of this partnership lies in its potential to revolutionize construction operations, which are often labor-intensive and fraught with safety risks. By integrating FFMs with Boston Dynamics' Spot® robot, the collaboration aims to enhance the ability of robots to navigate dynamic terrains and workflows, ultimately improving efficiency and safety in construction projects. Looking ahead, the integration of FFMs with Spot is expected to enable robots to autonomously operate in uncharted environments, such as underground mines and rapidly evolving construction zones. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Journal of Field Robotics Volume 43, Issue 7 Released in October 2026
The Journal of Field Robotics has published its Volume 43, Issue 7 in October 2026. This edition continues to provide valuable insights and research findings in the field of robotics, particularly focusing on advancements in field applications. The release of this issue is significant as it showcases the latest developments and innovations in robotics, which are crucial for professionals in the industry. It serves as a resource for engineers, researchers, and decision-makers looking to stay updated on current trends and technologies. Looking ahead, readers should keep an eye on future issues of the Journal of Field Robotics for ongoing research and emerging topics in the field. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
COVER
Journal of Field Robotics Releases Volume 43, Issue 7 in October 2026
The Journal of Field Robotics has published its Volume 43, Issue 7, which spans pages 4277 to 4279. This issue is part of the ongoing contributions to the field of robotics, showcasing the latest research and developments. The release of this issue is significant as it provides insights into advancements in robotics, contributing to the body of knowledge that supports innovation and application in various sectors. Researchers and practitioners can benefit from the findings presented in this volume. Looking ahead, readers should keep an eye on future issues of the Journal of Field Robotics for continued updates and research findings that may influence the robotics landscape. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
ISSUE INFORMATION
L3Harris and ARX Robotics Test Counter-Drone Sensing on Uncrewed Ground Vehicle
L3Harris Technologies and ARX Robotics have successfully demonstrated a robotic ground vehicle equipped with a counter-drone sensing system during the US Army’s Project Convergence-Capstone 6 experimentation campaign. This innovative approach allows for the deployment of sensors on a remotely controlled robot, reducing the risk to soldiers by keeping them away from potential drone threats. The demonstration utilized L3Harris' CORVUS-RAVEN counter-drone capability mounted on ARX Robotics' GEREON uncrewed ground vehicle. This setup enhances situational awareness by passively detecting signals associated with drone threats and providing critical bearing information. The ability to reposition the robotic vehicle as tactical situations evolve offers commanders a flexible alternative to fixed sensor locations. As small drones pose increasing challenges for modern militaries, the collaboration between L3Harris and ARX Robotics highlights the importance of modularity and adaptability in military technology. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Military
Journal of Field Robotics Volume 43, Issue 6 Released in September 2026
The Journal of Field Robotics has published its Volume 43, Issue 6, which spans pages 3613 to 3616. This issue is set to contribute to the ongoing discourse in the field of robotics, showcasing the latest research and developments. The release of this issue is significant as it highlights advancements and findings that could influence future robotics applications and technologies. Researchers and practitioners in the field will benefit from the insights shared in this publication, which aims to foster innovation and collaboration. Looking ahead, readers should keep an eye on the implications of the research presented in this issue for both academic and practical applications in robotics. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
ISSUE INFORMATION
Cover Image for Journal of Field Robotics, Volume 43, Issue 6, September 2026
The Journal of Field Robotics has released its Volume 43, Issue 6, in September 2026. This issue continues to showcase advancements and research in the field of robotics, particularly focusing on applications in various environments. The significance of this publication lies in its contribution to the ongoing discourse in robotics, providing insights and findings that can influence future research and development. The journal serves as a platform for researchers and practitioners to share their work and foster collaboration. Looking ahead, readers should anticipate further developments and research findings in upcoming issues. The journal remains a key resource for those interested in the latest trends and innovations in robotics. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
COVER
HDT Robotics Develops Dire WOLF for U.S. Army's Project Sustainment Logistics
HDT Robotics, also known as BLADE, has been selected as one of five companies to collaborate with the U.S. Army on Project Sustainment. This initiative, managed by the National Advanced Mobility Consortium (NAMC), aims to develop robotic systems capable of delivering supplies in high-risk battlefield environments, enhancing soldier safety near the front lines. The Dire WOLF, a six-wheeled diesel-electric hybrid unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), is designed for logistics missions and can transport thousands of pounds of essential cargo, including ammunition and fuel. Its advanced features, such as a hybrid powertrain and Michelin's non-pneumatic Tweels, enable it to navigate challenging terrains while maintaining operational flexibility, crucial for the Army's resupply efforts in dangerous areas. As the U.S. Army continues to automate battlefield logistics, the Dire WOLF joins BLADE's existing robotic vehicles, including the Hunter WOLF and WOLF-X. This development reflects a significant step towards reducing risks for soldiers by utilizing autonomous ground vehicles to deliver supplies safely and efficiently in contested environments. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Military
Journal of Field Robotics Volume 43, Issue 5 Released in August 2026
The Journal of Field Robotics has published its Volume 43, Issue 5, which spans pages 2993 to 2995. This issue is set to contribute to the ongoing discourse in the field of robotics, particularly in applications that require field-based solutions. The release of this issue is significant as it showcases the latest research and advancements in robotics, providing insights that can influence both academic and practical applications. The journal serves as a platform for researchers and practitioners to share their findings and innovations. Looking ahead, readers should anticipate further developments and discussions emerging from the articles within this issue. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
ISSUE INFORMATION
Fieldwork Robotics secures new funding to accelerate raspberry harvesting robot
Fieldwork Robotics, a UK-based company, has received a significant investment from SEED Innovations, led by entrepreneur Jim Mellon. This funding aims to expedite the commercial rollout of the company's innovative autonomous robot designed for raspberry harvesting. The investment comes at a crucial time as the agricultural sector increasingly seeks automation solutions to enhance efficiency and address labor shortages. By leveraging this financial support, Fieldwork Robotics plans to advance the development and deployment of its technology, positioning itself as a leader in agricultural robotics.
Smart farming autonomous technology harvesting technology investment robotics
44.95 Million Yuan! Woan Robotics Secures Largest Single Order in the Field of Home Embodied Intelligence
Woan Robotics has secured a significant contract worth 44.95 million yuan for a project in Shenzhen, announced on May 18. This deal represents the largest publicly disclosed order in the home embodied intelligence sector. The initiative aims to create a comprehensive service center dedicated to embodied intelligence data, with an emphasis on real household scenarios. This project underscores Woan Robotics' commitment to advancing technology that enhances everyday living environments.
Home Robotics Embodied Intelligence Data Collection AI Technology
Micro-Scale Robotics in the Medical Field: Precision Automation Meets Health Care Innovation
Recent advancements in micro-scale robotics are transforming the healthcare sector, showcasing significant progress in precision and data analytics. Unlike traditional medical machinery, which often occupies large spaces, these innovative micro-robots are designed to operate at a much smaller scale, offering new possibilities for patient care and treatment. This evolution in medical technology is driven by the need for more efficient and effective healthcare solutions, allowing for minimally invasive procedures and improved patient outcomes. As the field continues to evolve, the integration of these micro-robots into clinical practice is expected to enhance diagnostic capabilities and treatment options, ultimately reshaping the future of medical interventions.
CMU’s Robotics Innovation Center Secures FieldAI as Inaugural Corporate Tenant
Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Innovation Center (RIC) has welcomed its first corporate tenant, the rapidly growing robotics company FieldAI. This partnership marks a significant milestone for the RIC as it establishes its new research facility at Hazelwood Green. The collaboration aims to enhance innovation in robotics, leveraging FieldAI's expertise to foster advancements in the field. This development underscores CMU's commitment to driving technological progress and supporting industry partnerships within the robotics sector.
Announcements
Video: KEENON Robotics Enters Humanoid Field with XMAN-R1, Expands Autonomous Cleaning Lineup
KEENON Robotics has introduced the XMAN-R1, its inaugural humanoid robot aimed at enhancing human interaction and collaboration with its existing line of commercial robots. This launch took place recently as part of the company's efforts to innovate within the service robotics sector. In addition to the XMAN-R1, KEENON also unveiled three new cleaning robots—KLEENBOT C20, C40, and C55—each designed to cater to various cleaning needs across different environments. This expansion of their product lineup underscores KEENON's commitment to providing a comprehensive range of automated solutions, enhancing efficiency and service capabilities in commercial settings.
Keenon XMAN-R1Robotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
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