Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
CASBOT Hands Introduces Three Advanced Robotic Hands for Enhanced Manipulation
CASBOT Hands has launched three new dexterous robotic hands, enhancing its embodied manipulation platform. This development comes as the robotics industry seeks to improve the ability of robots to perform real-world tasks across various sectors, including manufacturing and education. The introduction of these robotic hands is significant as it addresses the growing demand for reliable robotic solutions that can operate effectively in diverse environments. As robots become more capable in motion control and environmental perception, their application in practical settings becomes increasingly viable. Looking ahead, the focus will be on how these new robotic hands will be integrated into existing systems and their performance in real-world applications. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Handroid: A Transformative Robot Capable of Walking and Fine Manipulation
Handroid, a collaborative project between the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Stanford University, is a desktop robot that stands 0.33 meters tall and weighs 2.05 kilograms. It features 27 degrees of freedom and can seamlessly switch between a humanoid form for walking and interaction and a dexterous hand for fine manipulation. This innovative design addresses the complexity of traditional robotic systems, which often require separate mobile bases and robotic arms for different tasks. Handroid's unique topology mimics human anatomy, allowing it to utilize the same electromechanical system for both forms without the need for hardware changes. In its dexterous hand form, it achieves an average real-world grasping success rate of 72% across ten object types. Looking ahead, Handroid represents a significant advancement in robotic design, challenging the notion of single-function hardware. It raises questions about the future of robotics, particularly regarding the potential for multi-functional, reconfigurable platforms that enhance robotic capabilities through the intelligent reallocation of existing components. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Robotics Humanoid Robots Dexterous Manipulation AI Robotic Systems
Advancements in Robotic Manipulation Through Real-World Reinforcement Learning
A recent study published in Science Robotics highlights significant advancements in robotic manipulation using real-world reinforcement learning techniques. This research demonstrates how robots can learn to perform complex tasks more efficiently by interacting with their environment, leading to improved performance in various applications. The implications of this research are profound, as enhanced robotic manipulation capabilities can transform industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. By leveraging real-world reinforcement learning, robots can adapt to dynamic environments, making them more versatile and effective in executing tasks that require precision and adaptability. Looking ahead, the focus will be on further refining these techniques and exploring their applications in real-world scenarios. Continued research in this area may lead to breakthroughs in how robots are integrated into everyday operations, enhancing productivity and efficiency across multiple sectors. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Research Article
mimic Robotics Launches Comprehensive Platform for Advanced Dexterous Robot Manipulation
mimic Robotics has unveiled a new robotic hand, the mimic hand M1, along with the mimic wearable U1 exoskeleton and a proprietary software platform. This integrated system aims to enhance general-purpose dexterous manipulation in industrial robots by addressing the challenge of collecting high-quality training data for AI models that perform human-like tasks. The significance of this launch lies in mimic Robotics' approach to design, which focuses on human hand morphology rather than traditional two-finger grippers. The mimic hand M1 features 15 actuated degrees of freedom and is capable of handling payloads over 25 kg, while the mimic wearable U1 allows human operators to demonstrate tasks in real-time, improving data collection for AI training. Looking ahead, the company’s innovative middleware and teleoperation software are expected to enhance robot control and AI inference speed. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Components Computing News ai automation dexterous manipulation
Agile Robotics Partners with CRRC to Advance Dexterous Manipulation Technology in Industrial Applications
Agile Robotics has signed a technical framework agreement with a subsidiary of CRRC to explore the adaptation, verification, and iteration of dexterous manipulation technology in high-end equipment manufacturing. This collaboration marks a significant breakthrough for the relatively new company, providing access to complex industrial scenarios shortly after completing a multi-million yuan angel round funding. The partnership is crucial as it highlights the growing importance of practical applications over theoretical parameters in the dexterous manipulation industry. While many companies focus on degrees of freedom and complexity, the real challenge lies in creating reliable industrial devices that can operate continuously in factory settings. CRRC, a leader in rail transportation equipment manufacturing, exemplifies the complexities of China's manufacturing landscape, where automation solutions often face limitations. Agile Robotics has developed a product line that includes an 11-degree-of-freedom manipulator, which is now in small-batch production and being marketed. The company aims to meet real market demands while also advancing high-precision operations with a 23-degree-of-freedom product. The collaboration with CRRC may be just the beginning of a broader exploration into the practical applications of dexterous robotics in industrial environments.
Agile Robotics Industrial Automation High-End Equipment Manufacturing Robotic Technology
PHANES AI Launches TouchWorld Tactile Model for Enhanced Robot Dexterity
PHANES AI, established by 28-year-old Yang Shuo from HIT, has introduced TouchWorld, a tactile foundation model designed to enhance robotic manipulation capabilities. This model enables robots to perform precise physical tasks by incorporating a sense of touch, marking a significant advancement in robotic dexterity and interaction with their environment. The introduction of TouchWorld is significant as it allows robots to predict and react to tactile stimuli, which is crucial for applications requiring fine motor skills. This development could lead to improved performance in various sectors, including manufacturing and healthcare, where dexterous manipulation is essential for tasks such as assembly or surgical procedures. Looking ahead, the impact of TouchWorld on the robotics industry will be closely monitored, particularly regarding its adoption in real-world applications. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication, but the potential for this technology to transform robotic capabilities is substantial.
Technology
University of Hong Kong Develops RoboDojo, a Benchmarking Platform for Robotic Manipulation
The University of Hong Kong's Multimedia Laboratory has developed 'RoboDojo,' a comprehensive platform for assessing robotic manipulation in both simulated and real-world settings. This initiative, led by Professor Ping Luo and Ph.D. student Tianxing Chen, involved collaboration with researchers from nearly 20 prestigious universities worldwide, including the University of California, Berkeley, and Tsinghua University. RoboDojo is significant as it aims to standardize the evaluation of embodied AI, providing a unified framework that can enhance the development and testing of robotic systems. The collaborative effort underscores the importance of international partnerships in advancing technology and research in the field of robotics. Looking ahead, the implications of RoboDojo could influence future research and development in robotic manipulation. The project has been documented in a paper available on the arXiv preprint server, indicating ongoing interest and potential for further advancements in this area. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Robotics
UK startup Humanoid launches reinforcement learning system to improve robot manipulation
UK-based robotics and AI company Humanoid has introduced KinetIQ Ascend, the company’s reinforcement learning approach designed to reach 99.9 percent manipulation reliability at human speed and beyond. KinetIQ Ascend builds on the previously announced KinetIQ platform with trial-and-error learning, helping the company’s robots improve directly on industrial tasks. The new system was tested on several […]
Computing Humanoids News artificial intelligence automation embodied ai
Cobot’s Proxie Gen 2 robot adds autotasking, mobile manipulation
Cobot, led by founder and CEO Brad Porter, has unveiled its latest innovation, the Proxie Gen 2 robot, which enhances automation capabilities in material handling. This advanced robot is designed to autonomously assess when materials are ready for transport, pinpoint their destinations, and generate tasks without the need for human oversight. The introduction of Proxie Gen 2 marks a significant step forward in mobile manipulation technology, aiming to streamline operations in various industries. This development reflects Cobot's commitment to advancing robotic solutions that improve efficiency and reduce reliance on manual labor.
Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence / Cognition Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) Design / Development Healthcare Robotics Logistics
Interview with Sharpa’s Alicia Veneziani: ‘Dexterous manipulation is the key to useful humanoid robots’
Recent advancements in humanoid robotics have captivated audiences with remarkable demonstrations of walking, running, jumping, and balancing. However, experts in the field caution that while locomotion is a significant aspect, it is not the only challenge facing the development of practical humanoid robots. Many robotics specialists emphasize that the greater hurdle lies in replicating human-like cognitive abilities and social interactions, which are essential for these machines to be genuinely useful in everyday environments. As researchers continue to push the boundaries of technology, the focus is shifting towards enhancing the cognitive and emotional intelligence of robots, which could ultimately determine their effectiveness in real-world applications.
Design Features Humanoids ai robotics Alicia Veneziani automation news
Prosthetic hands’ data helps robots get finer control for precise manipulation
ABB Robotics has announced a collaboration with California-based bionic company PSYONIC to enhance the development of more dexterous robotic systems. This partnership aims to leverage PSYONIC's expertise in bionic technology to create advanced robotic solutions that can perform intricate tasks with greater precision and adaptability. The initiative is part of ABB's ongoing commitment to innovation in robotics, seeking to address the growing demand for versatile robotic applications across various industries. The collaboration was officially unveiled in October 2023, marking a significant step forward in the integration of bionic technology into robotic systems. By combining their strengths, both companies hope to push the boundaries of what is possible in robotic dexterity, ultimately improving efficiency and productivity in sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and beyond.
AI and Robotics
Daimon Robotics and Galbot jointly launches RobOmni for benchmarking tactile perception and dexterous manipulation
Daimon Robotics and Galbot have announced the launch of RobOmni, a new platform designed to benchmark tactile perception and dexterous manipulation in the field of embodied AI. This development marks a significant shift from traditional vision-centric approaches to a more comprehensive understanding of physical interactions. The collaboration aims to enhance the capabilities of robots in performing complex tasks that require fine motor skills and sensitivity to touch. The launch event took place recently, highlighting the growing importance of tactile feedback in robotics and its applications across various industries. By integrating advanced tactile sensing technologies, RobOmni is set to provide researchers and developers with the tools needed to push the boundaries of robotic dexterity and perception.
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Robot Talk Episode 159 – Robot sensing and manipulation, with Maria Koskinopoulou
Claire recently engaged in a conversation with Maria Koskinopoulou, an Assistant Professor in Robotics and Computer Vision at Heriot-Watt University, regarding the advancements in autonomous robotic manipulators. The discussion highlighted the applications of these technologies in various fields, including surgery and industry. Koskinopoulou, who co-leads the ARM²Lab—focused on Autonomous Robotic Manipulation and Multi-Agent Systems—alongside Ignacio Carlucho, shared insights into her research interests and the potential impact of robotics on future innovations. The dialogue underscores the growing significance of robotics in enhancing efficiency and precision across multiple sectors.
New humanoid robot brings advanced perception and manipulation to industrial droids
A Vietnamese technology company has introduced its newest humanoid robot, the VR-H3, during the IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation held in Paris. The unveiling took place on May 23, 2023, showcasing the company's commitment to advancing robotics and artificial intelligence. The VR-H3 is designed to assist in various tasks, including healthcare support and customer service, reflecting the growing demand for automation in diverse sectors. This innovation aims to enhance efficiency and improve service delivery, addressing labor shortages and increasing productivity. The development of the VR-H3 involved extensive research and collaboration with experts in robotics, highlighting the company's dedication to integrating cutting-edge technology into practical applications.
China’s new robotic hand combines hybrid actuation for smarter robot manipulation
Chinese robotics company Xynova has introduced its second-generation dexterous hand, designed to enhance the capabilities of humanoid robots. The unveiling took place recently, showcasing advancements in robotic technology that aim to improve the dexterity and functionality of robots in various applications. This innovation is part of Xynova's ongoing commitment to push the boundaries of robotics, addressing the growing demand for more sophisticated and versatile robots in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and service. The new hand features improved grip strength and precision, enabling robots to perform complex tasks with greater ease. By advancing robotic dexterity, Xynova seeks to facilitate the integration of humanoid robots into everyday environments, ultimately enhancing human-robot collaboration.
Locus Robotics Acquires Nexera Robotics, Advancing a Patented Breakthrough in Mobile Manipulation
Locus Robotics has announced its acquisition of Vancouver-based Nexera Robotics, a move aimed at enhancing its capabilities in mobile manipulation. The acquisition, revealed on May 19, 2026, will integrate Nexera's patented NeuraGrasp™ technology into Locus's existing AI platform, significantly expanding the range of SKUs that the Locus Array can autonomously handle. This advancement is expected to open new categories and improve efficiency in warehouse operations, addressing challenges that have historically limited robotic picking capabilities. Rick Faulk, CEO of Locus Robotics, emphasized the importance of AI-driven mobile manipulation for the future of warehouse robotics, stating that the ability to efficiently grasp a wide variety of inventory is crucial for creating value in the coming decade. The NeuraGrasp™ technology combines AI intelligence, sensory inputs, and computer vision, allowing a single gripper to adapt to various item characteristics, thereby enhancing reliability in real-world warehouse conditions. The acquisition follows the successful launch of Locus Array at MODEX 2026, where it garnered significant market interest and recognition as a top innovation. With Nexera now wholly owned by Locus Robotics, the integration of NeuraGrasp™ is expected to accelerate the company's growth and broaden its market reach, positioning it at the forefront of the autonomous fulfillment industry.
Video: Genesis’ smart robotic brain enables human-level manipulation and scalable training
Genesis AI has introduced GENE-26.5, an advanced robotic brain aimed at enabling robots to achieve human-level physical capabilities. The announcement was made during a technology conference held in San Francisco on October 15, 2023. This innovative development is part of Genesis AI's ongoing efforts to enhance robotic functionality and adaptability in various environments. By integrating sophisticated algorithms and machine learning techniques, GENE-26.5 is designed to improve robots' dexterity and decision-making processes, potentially transforming industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. The launch of GENE-26.5 reflects the company's commitment to pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence and robotics, paving the way for more intuitive and efficient machines that can work alongside humans.
Replacing Grasping with Support: EPFL Team Proposes a New Paradigm for Robot Manipulation
Researchers from the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) have unveiled a groundbreaking robotic manipulation technique that moves away from conventional grasping methods to a surface-based support system. This new approach enables robots to interact with a wide range of objects without requiring stable grips, significantly improving their dexterity. The development, announced recently, has the potential to transform automation processes across multiple industries, enhancing efficiency and versatility in robotic applications. By allowing robots to manage objects more fluidly and adaptively, this innovation could lead to advancements in fields such as manufacturing, logistics, and service industries.
Robotic Manipulation Automation Technology Surface-Based Handling EPFL Research
Genesis AI Unveils Foundation Model, Hand & Data Collection System to Develop Human-Level Physical Manipulation for Robotics
Genesis AI has introduced a groundbreaking robotics foundation model named GENE-26.5, accompanied by a proprietary robotic hand and a data collection system aimed at enhancing the ability of robots to learn complex physical tasks by observing human behavior. This innovative system seeks to tackle the challenges associated with gathering substantial amounts of usable training data necessary for teaching robots to perform intricate tasks effectively. The unveiling of GENE-26.5 marks a significant advancement in the field of robotics, as it promises to streamline the learning process for robots, making them more adept at mimicking human actions.
AI AI Use Cases Robotics Eclipse Eric Schmidt Foundation AI Model for Robotics
Genesis AI introduces GENE-26.5 model for more dexterous robot manipulation
Genesis AI has unveiled its latest innovation, the GENE-26.5 foundation model, which incorporates an advanced data engine alongside a proprietary robotic hand designed to enhance dexterity in robotic manipulation. This development aims to push the boundaries of robotic capabilities, enabling more precise and versatile movements. The introduction of the GENE-26.5 model marks a significant advancement in the field of robotics, reflecting the company's commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve robotic functionality. The announcement was made recently, highlighting the potential applications of this model in various industries where enhanced manipulation is crucial.
Arms / Manipulators Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence / Cognition End Effectors / Grippers Grippers Humanoids
Genesis AI Unveils GENE-26.5, the First AI Brain to Enable Robots with Human-Level Physical Manipulation Capabilities
Genesis AI has unveiled a groundbreaking robotic foundation model that integrates an advanced data engine with a proprietary dexterous robotic hand, marking a significant advancement in robotics. The company showcased this innovation through a video released today, highlighting unprecedented complexity in robotic tasks. This development aims to enhance the capabilities of robots, positioning them as the most sophisticated machines ever created. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, Genesis AI seeks to revolutionize the field of robotics and expand the potential applications of these advanced systems.
New Record in Robotic Micro-Manipulation: 42G Ejection and Precision Control Across 14 Orders of Magnitude
A team of researchers has unveiled a revolutionary liquid metal universal gripper (LiMU) that boasts exceptional manipulation capabilities, achieving a record ejection speed of 42G. This cutting-edge technology can handle a wide range of objects, from picograms to hundreds of grams, making it suitable for delicate tasks across various environments. The development of LiMU represents a significant advancement in robotic manipulation, potentially transforming industries that require precision handling of fragile materials.
Robotic Grippers Micro-Manipulation Liquid Metal Technology Adaptive Robotics
The Gearbox Trap: Origami Robotics and 1X Clash Over the Future of Manipulation
Origami Robotics has released a technical critique highlighting that high-ratio gearboxes are a significant barrier to achieving greater dexterity in robotics. This assertion has led to an unusual hardware disclosure from Bernt Børnich, the CEO of 1X, who responded to the critique. The discussion surrounding this issue is particularly timely, as advancements in robotics are increasingly sought after in various industries. The critique emphasizes the need for innovation in gearbox technology to enhance robotic performance and functionality, suggesting that overcoming this bottleneck could lead to substantial improvements in robotic applications. Børnich's hardware reveal aims to address these concerns and showcase potential solutions to the challenges identified by Origami Robotics.
Origami Robotics 1X-technologies Scott Walter hand hands Bernt Børnich
LimX Dynamics’ New Humanoid Robot Demonstrates a Rare Skill: Autonomous Loco-Manipulation
Shenzhen-based startup LimX Dynamics has unveiled a video showcasing its latest humanoid robot, Oli, demonstrating advanced capabilities in whole-body loco-manipulation. In the demonstration, Oli autonomously identifies a tennis ball, navigates towards it, and successfully picks it up. This innovative feat highlights a significant advancement in robotic technology, as such complex skills are rarely seen in contemporary humanoid robots. The release of this video marks a notable moment for the company, emphasizing its commitment to pushing the boundaries of robotics and automation.
LimX Dynamics Oli Loco-Manipulation humanoid-robot
Westwood Robotics Details Agile THEMIS V2 Humanoid with Advanced Manipulation
Westwood Robotics has unveiled its latest humanoid robot, the THEMIS V2, designed to operate in challenging work environments. Standing at 1.6 meters tall, the robot boasts 40 degrees of freedom (DoF) and is equipped with proprietary BEAR actuators that enable agile and compliant movements. The upgraded model features enhanced 6-DoF arms and 7-DoF hands, allowing for greater dexterity and functionality. Incorporating advanced artificial intelligence processing and stereo vision capabilities, THEMIS V2 is engineered to perform complex tasks efficiently. Additionally, the robot is designed with hot-swappable batteries, ensuring minimal downtime during operation. This innovative technology aims to meet the increasing demand for versatile robotic solutions in various industries, highlighting Westwood Robotics' commitment to pushing the boundaries of robotic capabilities.
themis-v2 westwood-robotics
Innovative Algorithm Enhances Robot Tracking for High-Precision Manipulation Tasks
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Institute are making strides in enhancing robotic capabilities with the development of an innovative algorithm designed to improve tracking for high-precision manipulation tasks. This advancement is particularly significant as it addresses the challenges robots face when handling a diverse range of low-texture objects, which require human-level dexterity for effective manipulation and reconstruction. The work, led by a Ph.D. student, aims to push the boundaries of current robotic tactile sensing technologies. By refining the algorithms that govern how robots perceive and interact with their environment, the team hopes to facilitate more accurate and versatile robotic applications in various fields. This breakthrough could pave the way for robots to perform complex tasks that demand a high degree of precision, ultimately revolutionizing the way robots are utilized in industries that rely on intricate object handling.
Research
Sanctuary AI Touts Reinforcement Learning Success for Dexterous Robot Hand Manipulation
Sanctuary AI has showcased its advanced robotic hand, featuring hydraulically actuated five fingers, successfully executing in-hand object reorientation. This demonstration took place recently, highlighting the company's innovative approach to robotics. The robotic hand utilized a reinforcement learning policy that was initially trained in a simulated environment, achieving a notable sim-to-real transfer even when subjected to an unexpected load of 500 grams. Sanctuary AI credits this accomplishment to its proprietary reinforcement learning techniques and the sophisticated design of its high-degree-of-freedom hand hardware, marking a significant milestone in the development of robotic manipulation capabilities.
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