ABB, a leading robotics company, has made yet another strategic acquisition to enhance the mobility of industrial robots. The company has purchased Sevensense, a Swiss start-up specializing in artificial intelligence (AI) and 3D vision technology for robots. This investment comes in response to the growing demand for industrial robots that can operate autonomously and navigate complex environments such as factories and warehouses.
Traditionally, robots in production lines followed fixed magnetic strips, limiting their flexibility and adaptability. However, with Sevensense’s sensor and AI systems, factory robots now have the ability to “see” and “think,” allowing them to move freely and intelligently throughout the plants. Sami Atiya, ABB’s head of robotics and discrete automation, explained, “Now we have robots which can go all over the factory, but with eyes and a brain.”
Each robot is equipped with six cameras and can transport materials weighing up to 2 tons at speeds of 1.5 meters per second. The integration of Sevensense’s technology into ABB’s products has already garnered interest from major customers, including Ford and Michelin. Ford, for instance, has already procured 300 robots for its plant in Tennessee, showcasing the practical applications and benefits of this innovative technology within the manufacturing industry.
ABB’s latest acquisition aligns with its strategic goal of expanding its presence in the rapidly growing field of autonomous mobile robots (AMR). The market for AMRs is projected to grow by approximately 20% annually from 2023 to 2026, reaching a value of $9.5 billion. This growth rate surpasses that of conventional fixed robots, which are expected to see an annual growth rate of 8% during the same period. With the acquisition of Sevensense, ABB aims to strengthen its competitive position against other major players, such as FANUC and Kuka.
By leveraging advanced AI and 3D vision technology, ABB is transforming the capabilities of industrial robots, empowering them to operate independently, efficiently, and with greater flexibility. The integration of Sevensense’s technology into ABB’s portfolio is set to revolutionize the manufacturing landscape, enabling companies to achieve higher levels of productivity and agility. With the ability to easily adapt and reconfigure production lines, manufacturers can respond swiftly to changing market demands, further driving innovation and growth.
As the demand for automation and robotics continues to rise, ABB remains committed to investing in cutting-edge technologies and strategic partnerships. This recent acquisition is in line with the company’s long-term vision of shaping the future of robotics and driving the next wave of industrial revolution. With its forward-thinking approach and ongoing innovations, ABB is poised to define the future of robotics and set new industry standards.
The terms of the ABB-Sevensense acquisition were not disclosed, but it marks another significant milestone in ABB’s journey towards transforming the manufacturing industry through the power of AI and robotics. With Sevensense’s expertise and technology, ABB is well-positioned to revolutionize industrial automation, making smart factories of the future a reality.
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