Mitsubishi Electric invests in Realtime Robotics.
Realtime Robotics has revealed that Mitsubishi Electric Corporation is the lead investor in its Series B funding round after participating in Series A. The robotics specialist will use the funding to help develop its robot workcell optimisation and runtime solutions. Additionally, Mitsubishi Electric will be adding a senior representative to Realtime Robotics’ Board of Directors.
The collision-free path planning technology utilises Realtime Robotics’ multi-robot optimisation software to generate hundreds of thousands of solutions before finding the one with the shortest cycle time. Deployment and production are then easier with runtime control allowing multiple robots to work closer while still being able to react to dynamic changes. Additionally, the system can be easily reprogrammed to maintain the optimal cycle time when retooled.
The likes of BMW, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Valiant TMS, and Schaeffler Group have all reported improved cycle times, minimised downtime, and increased throughput after working with Realtime Robotics.
“For years, industrial robot programming has remained a rigid, costly and labour-intensive process. Realtime is helping manufacturers realise the next wave of efficiency improvements necessary to get the most out of their new and existing automation applications,” said Peter Howard, CEO of Realtime Robotics. “Our optimisation and runtime technologies constitute a powerful Artificial Intelligence (AI) that operates much like the human brain’s motor cortex, efficiently managing multiple actions at the same time. Think of several cooks in a crowded kitchen being able to seamlessly work around each other to produce meals without error or collision. That’s the power of our technology.”
Howard continued, “We will utilise these funds to accelerate the development of additional interfaces, driving toward full industry-wide accessibility in an increasingly user-friendly and efficient manner. Mitsubishi Electric understands manufacturers’ need to improve efficiency and productivity in the face of rising costs and diversifying customer needs. We’re thrilled to work closely with them to expand the use of our unique motion-planning technology.”
Mitsubishi Electric’s plans post strategic investment
As Mitsubishi Electric increases its stake in the robotics manufacturer, the company hopes to integrate more of Realtime Robotics’ motion planning technology into its 3D simulators and other software platforms. This should lead to the optimisation of manufacturing through the use of digital twins. In the future, the investors also aim to incorporate more technology into its factory automation control system devices, like programmable logic controls, servo motors, and computer numerical controllers. By improving automation levels, the electrical solutions developer should benefit from streamlined plant operations, improved efficiency, and uninterrupted plant operations.