Ivan Hernandez Dalas - Mechatronics

This image was created using Google Gemini. It’s no surprise that artificial intelligence (AI) has become a go-to tool in the race to innovate, especially in the robotics industry. Whether it helps in the creation of new algorithms or novel innovations for automation, AI can be a creative partner, or in some instances, even contribute to the creation of inventive concepts. Given the prevalence of AI , robotics executives are grappling with the fundamental question: can you protect innovation not entirely created by humans? And if so, how? The answer to that question includes two distinct paths: patents or trade secrets. Choosing the right path in the age of AI has never mattered more. Detour ahead: patent route possibly closed for AI-generated innovations For the robotics industry, patents can provide broad protection for innovative concepts and can cover almost any novel aspect of a technology, including hardware, software , compositions, materials, processes, and business meth...

The Quanta X2 semi-humanoid robot Source: X Square Robot While artificial intelligence has advanced with large language models, or LLMs, robots need to understand the physical world to become general-purpose. X Square Robot yesterday said it has completed its Series A++ funding round, raising RMB 1 billion, about $140 million U.S. “At X Square, we believe the key to enabling robots to truly master real-world tasks lies in the ‘robot brain’ — a foundation model for the physical world that parallels virtual LLMs to shatter generalization bottlenecks,” stated Wang Qian, founder and CEO of X Square Robot. “This investment underscores shared confidence in our role as a catalyst for technological progress and will accelerate our expansion into high-value applications.” Founded in 2023, X Square Robot said it is developing “general-purpose, end-to-end embodied AI foundation models.” The Shenzhen, China-based company , formally known as Variable Robotics Technology Co., added that its WAL...

Physical AI such as this force- and power-limited arm will get smarter thanks to math and collaboration, says a UR VP. Source: Universal Robots The robotics industry is evolving faster than ever, and the signals of what’s next are already visible. As someone focused on shaping the future of automation, I see four trends that will redefine how physical AI creates value. From smarter math and cooperative behaviors to industry-specific AI and a new data economy, here’s what I predict will matter most in the years ahead. 1. Predictive math is a silent revolution for physical AI The next big leap in robotics won’t come from hardware; it will come from math. Today, robots are reactive: They respond to inputs and adapt in real time. Tomorrow, they will anticipate. Robots learn tasks such as assembly via demonstration and reinforcement learning. Source: Universal Robots Emerging mathematical techniques, such as dual numbers and jets, are quietly reshaping how we think about modeling ...

Schaeffler plans to deploy robots from Humanoid across its global factories. Source: Humanoid While humanoid robotics developers have gotten a lot of public and investor interest, many still need partners for the technologies that go into their systems. SKL Robotics Ltd., which does business as Humanoid, today announced a strategic partnership with motion technology company Schaeffler Technologies AG. “Real-world integration is the ultimate test for humanoid robots,” said Artem Sokolov, founder of Humanoid. “Moving from pilots to large-scale deployment requires close alignment on systems, data, safety, and operations with our partners.” “Our collaboration with Schaeffler allows us to validate and scale humanoid deployment with clear requirements, measurable outcomes, and long-term plans,” he added. “Together, we are laying the groundwork for humanoid robots to become a practical and reliable part of industrial environments within just a few years.” Sokolov founded Humanoid in 202...

The latest project call is for manufacturing training programs to be endorsed. Source: ARM Institute The Advanced Robotics in Manufacturing, or ARM, Institute last week released its new Education & Workforce Development Project Call. This latest call seeks ARM Institute Members to apply for and undergo the ARM Endorsement evaluation process for manufacturing training programs that teach robotics skills at no cost. The ARM Institute said its Endorsement Program , powered by RoboticsCareer.org , recognizes the nation’s most effective training programs for robotics careers in manufacturing. The ARM Endorsement badge helps to identify organizations whose training programs have proven effective. This helps to differentiate them from the 16,700+ training programs listed on RoboticsCareer.org . This Project Call enables ARM members to apply for endorsement at no cost. While the project call is publicly available, only ARM members can submit a proposal. The institute said its endors...

The DG-5F-S robotic hand. Source: TESOLLO TESOLLO Inc. this month launched its new humanoid robotic hand, the DG-5F-S. The company said the latest model builds on its proprietary actuator technology, resulting in a more compact and lightweight design than its predecessor while maintaining the core structure. “Since 2023, TESOLLO has been developing proprietary actuators optimized for humanoid robotic hands, moving away from the use of generic actuators,” stated Youngjin Kim, CEO of TESOLLO. “Our focus has been on achieving high torque density, durability, and maintainability.” “The DG-5F-S represents a significant advancement of that technology, achieving compactness and lightweight design while enhancing compatibility with various humanoid platforms,” he added. Founded in 2019, TESOLLO said its name is a combination of “technology” and “sole,” representing its commitment to using technology to open new horizons in the robotic automation market. The Incheon, South Korea-based com...