Ready for Tomottow #61

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Hi there!

Hope you had a great weekend.

Ready to catch up on the latest from the world of robotics? Grab a coffee, get comfy, and dive into this week’s round-up of the most interesting moves, ideas, and tech shaping our future. Let’s go.

$27 million says humanoids are ready to get their hands dirty

Persona AI from Houston just raised 27 million dollars to build humanoid robots. But not the kind that serve coffee or dance. These robots are being designed for the gritty world of shipyards. Their job is welding, grinding, and tackling work that is hot, dangerous, and hard to staff.

The company is working with industrial giants like HD Korea Shipbuilding and Offshore Engineering, HD Hyundai Robotics, and Vazil Co. The goal is to have prototypes by 2026 and start real work in 2027.

What makes this stand out is not the shape of the robot but its purpose. This is a humanoid built for one specific thing. No general use. No overpromising. Just a machine built to do one job very well.

Persona is putting serious thought into safety and collaboration. These robots are not replacing people. They are meant to work with them. Smarter. Tougher. Focused.

This could be the first real step toward humanoids earning their place in heavy industry. Not by being flashy but by being useful.

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MIT builds a robot that follows you around with handlebars.

MIT engineers have developed E-BAR, a robotic system designed to assist older adults in their homes. E-BAR consists of robotic handlebars that follow a person from behind, allowing users to walk independently or lean on the robot's arms for support. This innovation aims to prevent falls and enhance mobility for the elderly, providing a safer environment for aging in place.

The system is designed to be unobtrusive and user-friendly, offering assistance only when needed. E-BAR's approach differs from traditional fixed grab bars, providing dynamic support that adapts to the user's movements. This development represents a significant step in integrating robotics into daily life to support the aging population.

Kim Povlsen, former president of Universal Robots, has been appointed CEO of Bluefors, a Helsinki-based leader in cryogenic systems for quantum computing and fundamental physics. He will oversee a global team of more than 700 employees, focusing on delivering ultra-low-temperature cooling systems essential for quantum technologies.

This move signifies a strategic shift from collaborative robotics to quantum infrastructure. Povlsen's experience in scaling automation technologies positions him to lead Bluefors in supporting the next generation of quantum computing hardware.

Bluefors' cryogenic systems are critical for maintaining the low temperatures required for quantum computing operations. Under Povlsen's leadership, the company aims to advance its technology and expand its role in the quantum computing industry

DHL is going all-in on warehouse robots.

DHL has committed to deploying over 1,000 Stretch robots from Boston Dynamics by 2030. These robots are designed to automate the unloading of boxes from trailers and containers, a task that is physically demanding and often leads to worker fatigue and injury. Stretch uses computer vision and a smart suction gripper to handle a variety of package types and sizes, adapting to complex stacking patterns without the need for pre-programming. This technology not only enhances efficiency but also addresses labor shortages by allowing human workers to focus on more strategic tasks.

The deployment of Stretch robots is part of DHL's broader strategy to accelerate digitization and innovation within its supply chain operations. By integrating advanced robotics, DHL aims to improve safety, increase productivity, and maintain flexibility in scaling operations according to demand. This move positions DHL at the forefront of warehouse automation, setting a new standard for logistics and supply chain management.

Humanoids are not ready for prime time.

Despite the buzz around humanoid robots, Interact Analysis reports that widespread adoption remains a distant goal. While companies like Tesla, Figure, and Agility Robotics showcase impressive prototypes, the reality is that these robots are not yet ready for large-scale deployment. High costs, limited real-world applications, and the complexity of human-like movement are significant barriers. Most humanoids are still confined to controlled environments, performing tasks that are more about demonstration than practical utility.

The report suggests that, for now, industries will continue to rely on more specialized robots that excel in specific tasks. The dream of versatile, human-like robots working alongside us is still in the realm of science fiction. Until significant technological and economic hurdles are overcome, humanoids will remain more of a curiosity than a staple in the workforce.

The Force now delivers your groceries

Piaggio Fast Forward just launched a Star Wars-themed version of its Gitamini cargo robot. Named G1T4-M1N1, it looks and sounds like it rolled straight out of the galaxy far, far away. This little droid comes complete with astromech-style lights, decals, and R2-D2-inspired sound effects. The goal is clear—blend sci-fi fandom with everyday utility.

Under the hood, it's still the same Gitamini. It follows you around, dodges obstacles, and hauls up to 20 pounds of your stuff. It travels up to 21 miles or runs for about seven hours on a charge. The mobile app lets you customize sounds and lighting and even blast music through its built-in speaker.

The price tag? Two thousand eight hundred seventy-five dollars. That’s 400 more than the original, but hey, this one makes you feel like a rebel smuggler on a grocery run.

It’s a clever way to bring robots into lifestyle territory. Less factory, more fandom. And proof that even the most practical tech can benefit from a little Star Wars magic.

Universal Robots unveils its fastest cobot yet

Universal Robots has introduced the UR15, its most agile collaborative robot to date. With a top TCP speed of 5 meters per second, the UR15 is designed to significantly reduce cycle times and enhance productivity across various applications and industries.

This latest addition to the UR series combines high-speed performance with the flexibility and safety features that Universal Robots is known for. The UR15 is particularly suited for tasks that require rapid and precise movements, making it an ideal choice for sectors such as electronics assembly, packaging, and material handling.

By delivering faster operations without compromising on safety, the UR15 aims to provide manufacturers with a competitive edge in automation. Its introduction reflects Universal Robots' ongoing commitment to advancing collaborative robotics technology to meet the evolving needs of modern production environments.

That’s all for now from the land of circuits and servos.

If robots keep evolving at this pace they might be writing this newsletter next week. Until then stay curious stay human and remember your toaster is not plotting against you.

Probably.