South Korean manufacturer of linear motion components and precision mechanical elements under the THK licensing partnership. Products include linear guides and motion systems used in industrial automation and robotics applications.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
GS Caltex announced the completion of a 200 billion won ($135 million) turnaround at its Yeosu refinery, utilizing robots, artificial intelligence, and digital tools to enhance safety and operational efficiency. This large-scale maintenance operation involved halting production for intensive inspections and replacing aged components, laying the groundwork for safer and more efficient plant operations. The significance of this turnaround lies in GS Caltex's integration of digital and AI solutions, which are part of the company's broader digital transformation strategy. By digitalizing core operational systems, the refinery aims to improve workplace practices and boost overall competitiveness. The deployment of technologies like MOVision and tube-cleaning robots addresses specific operational challenges, such as locating electric motor-operated valves and enhancing thermal efficiency. Looking ahead, GS Caltex plans to continue innovating within the manufacturing sector by leveraging its DAX strategies. The company's commitment to integrating on-site expertise with advanced technologies is expected to further enhance efficiency and safety in future operations. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
All NewsNvidia Corp. has announced an expanded collaboration with four prominent Japanese industrial automation companies to enhance robot development. This partnership aims to support Jensen Huang's initiative to advance AI-enabled hardware in the robotics sector. The collaboration is significant as it underscores the growing importance of integrating AI capabilities into robotics, which can lead to more efficient and intelligent automation solutions. By leveraging Nvidia's expertise in AI, these Japanese companies are positioning themselves to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving industrial landscape. Looking ahead, it will be crucial to monitor the outcomes of this collaboration and how it influences the development of AI-driven robotic technologies. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Auriga Space has entered a three-year Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center (DEVCOM AC) to investigate the potential of electromagnetic launch technology in countering drone swarms. This initiative aims to find a cost-effective alternative to traditional missile interceptors, which have proven expensive in engagements against low-cost drones. The significance of this research lies in the increasing need for modern militaries to address the economic challenges posed by drone warfare. Current missile interceptors can cost hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars, creating a cost imbalance when defending against inexpensive drones. The CRADA represents a broader commitment by the Department of War to explore innovative counter-drone technologies that can maintain high engagement rates while reducing operational costs. Looking ahead, Auriga plans to conduct the first outdoor flight test of its transportable electromagnetic launch platform, Hermes, later this summer. This platform is designed for rapid reloads and repeated engagements against multiple targets, potentially offering a new solution to the growing threat of drone swarms. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Anti-drone technology Applications C-UAS Defense Drone News Drone News FeedsWalden Robotics has officially launched with a valuation of $1.1 billion, backed by $300 million in funding. The company focuses on developing general-purpose robots that continuously learn and improve while performing real-world tasks. Co-founder Dr. Russ Tedrake emphasized the importance of understanding current manufacturing practices to deliver real value to customers. The significance of Walden Robotics lies in its innovative approach to physical AI, which has attracted attention from technology leaders. The company combines large behavior models with practical operations, allowing its robots to handle complex tasks while enhancing human capabilities. This approach aims to create a scalable business model that aligns with existing manufacturing processes. Looking ahead, Walden Robotics is set to expand its deployments, having already transitioned its robots from pilot programs to production tasks at a Toyota plant in North America within two months. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Aerospace Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence / Cognition Automotive Healthcare Robotics HumanoidsLG Energy has been confirmed to supply batteries for Google's largest solar and energy storage project, marking a significant expansion in energy infrastructure related to the rising power demands of AI data centers. This project, known as the Steel River Energy Center, is a collaboration between Google and Cypress Creek Energy in Arkansas. The initial phase of the project will feature 1.6 gigawatts (GW) of solar power generation capacity and approximately 2 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of battery storage, with plans to expand to 2.5 GW of solar and 2.9 GWh of storage by 2029. LG Energy is expected to provide its JF2 DC Link system, utilizing lithium iron phosphate battery technology, with the order valued at several hundred billion Korean won. As the demand for renewable energy solutions grows, this partnership highlights the increasing importance of energy storage systems in supporting sustainable infrastructure. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
The U.S. Navy has awarded a $10 million contract to Ursa Major to enhance the Mk 104 solid rocket motor through critical design review and static-fire testing. This initiative is part of the Navy's ongoing efforts to expand U.S. missile propulsion manufacturing capabilities. This contract builds on Ursa Major's previous collaboration with the Navy, which included a $25 million investment in solid rocket motor prototyping. The Mk 104 is integral to the Navy's Standard Missile family, powering variants like the SM-2, SM-3, and SM-6, essential for both offensive and defensive operations. Looking ahead, Ursa Major's innovative Lynx manufacturing approach aims to produce solid rocket motors efficiently, addressing production bottlenecks. The Navy's investment signifies a commitment to diversifying the supply chain for solid rocket motors, enhancing production capacity as demand for advanced missile systems continues to rise. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
MilitaryCarnegie Foundry, in collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) and several prominent U.S. drone manufacturers, has launched a new initiative aimed at bolstering America's drone manufacturing capabilities. This initiative leverages over $50 million in CMU investments focused on robotics, advanced manufacturing, and commercialization infrastructure to establish an Autonomous Systems Manufacturing Platform (ASMP). The significance of this initiative lies in its potential to strengthen the U.S. drone manufacturing sector, which is crucial for various applications including logistics, surveillance, and agriculture. By uniting CMU’s National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC) with leading drone manufacturers, the initiative aims to foster innovation and enhance the competitiveness of American-made drones in the global market. Looking ahead, stakeholders will be monitoring the development of the Autonomous Systems Manufacturing Platform and its impact on the drone industry. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
AnnouncementsHangzhou New Sword Electromechanical Transmission Co., Ltd. has submitted its IPO application to the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, aiming to raise 2.822 billion yuan by issuing up to 27.99 million shares. Established in 1999, the Zhejiang-based company is recognized as one of the three major players in Tesla's humanoid robot supply chain, primarily supplying planetary roller screws for the Tesla Optimus robot. The significance of this IPO lies in New Sword's projected revenue growth, which is expected to rise from 263 million yuan in 2023 to 383 million yuan by 2025. The company anticipates a dramatic increase in revenue from the embodied intelligent robotics sector, with projections of 31.11 million yuan by 2025, marking a 346% year-on-year growth. The funds raised will primarily support the industrialization project for producing 1 million humanoid robots and automotive planetary roller screws, with a total planned investment of 2.6 billion yuan. Looking ahead, New Sword's business model is shifting as it evolves from a single screw supplier to a comprehensive assembly supplier, including sensors and motors, for Tesla. The company aims to capitalize on the anticipated demand for Tesla's Optimus robots, with CEO Elon Musk indicating a target of 1 million units annually by the end of 2026. However, the timeline for mass production has faced multiple adjustments since the project's announcement in 2021, leaving uncertainty in the market.
Humanoid Robots IPO Supply Chain Electromechanical ComponentsIn the past two years, the humanoid robot industry has seen numerous impressive demonstrations, but a shift is emerging in the second half of 2026. Companies are now focusing on developing training frameworks, development platforms, data tools, open-source models, and various R&D infrastructures. The competition is evolving from showcasing superior robots to enabling more developers to create robots faster. Recently, RoboParty established RoboParty Lab (RPLab) and introduced Party OS, an open-source embodied intelligence R&D foundation for next-generation humanoid robots. Alongside this, they released three R&D infrastructures: MimicLite, UFO, and hhtools. This move signifies a transition from merely demonstrating capabilities to building a robust R&D ecosystem that fosters collaboration and scalability within the developer community. As humanoid robots move from laboratories to practical applications in factories, warehouses, and homes, the industry is shifting its focus toward creating a reproducible, collaborative, and scalable R&D system. The emphasis is now on sustaining and accelerating development capabilities, marking a significant change in industry dynamics over the past year.
Humanoid Robots R&D Infrastructure Open Source Embodied AI Robot Development ToolsIbaraki Prefecture has established the 'Ibaraki Physical AI Industry Creation Consortium' to promote business development and utilization of physical AI by local companies. The kickoff event, 'IBARAKI PHYSICAL AI SUMMIT 2026', is scheduled for July 28, 2026, at the Mito Plaza Hotel in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture. This initiative is significant as physical AI, which integrates AI into physical devices like robots and autonomous vehicles, is expected to see substantial market growth globally. The consortium aims to create an environment that facilitates local companies in adopting physical AI technologies, aligning with current industry trends. The kickoff event will feature participation from related companies such as Hitachi and Unitree Robotics, along with robot demonstrations. A seminar discussing the evolution of RoboCup in the context of humanoid robots and physical AI will also take place, highlighting the challenges and advancements in the field as it prepares for the RoboCup 2026 World Championship in South Korea.
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