THE NEW ERA OF INDUSTRIAL ROBOTICS: MBODI AND T-ROBOTICS, VISIONARIES FOR IA IN PRODUCTION PROCESSES
The 2024 ABB Robotics Artificial Intelligence Startup Challenge marked a milestone by highlighting the disruptive potential of Mbodi and T-Robotics. These startups, selected from over 100 global proposals, present solutions that not only simplify human-robot interaction but also promise to transform production lines across various industries.Who are Mbodi and T-Robotics?Mbodi: Redefining Human-Robot InteractionMbodi was born with a clear mission: to eliminate the technical barrier that often accompanies the programming and operation of industrial robots. This American startup, founded in 2021, specializes in developing systems that allow robots to be trained using intuitive methods such as voice commands, human movements, and physical demonstrations.Main Technology:Mbodi employs a continuous machine learning model that processes observations and commands in real-time. Its platform allows even workers without technical experience to teach new tasks to robots quickly and effectively.Industrial Advantages:• Cost and time reduction: By eliminating the need for expert programmers, companies can train robots directly on production lines, speeding up the implementation of new tasks.• Greater flexibility: Real-time learning capability allows robots to adapt to process variations without requiring extensive reprogramming.• Optimization of human resources: Mbodi frees workers from repetitive tasks and allows them to focus on higher value-added activities.Application Example:In electronic product assembly factories, Mbodi has enabled robots to learn quality inspection processes with 30% less training time, improving accuracy and reducing human errors.T-Robotics: Conversational Programming at the Service of IndustryFounded in South Korea in 2020, T-Robotics has focused on simplifying human-robot interaction through physical AI models and natural language processing. Its system allows operators to program industrial robots through conversational commands, making the technology accessible to any worker.Main Technology:T-Robotics’ solution is based on the development of a conversational interface that understands and translates commands in multiple languages, adjusting instructions to the robot’s capabilities and the productive environment in which it operates.Industrial Advantages:• Integration speed: Conversational programming reduces initial setup and update times for robots on production lines.• Universal compatibility: T-Robotics systems are compatible with a wide range of robot brands, from ABB to KUKA, facilitating their adoption in factories with heterogeneous equipment.• Operational efficiency: Thanks to its self-diagnostic capability, robots can foresee technical problems, reducing downtime.Application Example:In automotive plants, T-Robotics has implemented its system for welding robots, allowing supervisors to adjust welding parameters in real-time through voice commands. This has increased productivity by 25% and reduced defects in metal joints.Global Impact and Projects in Production LinesThese startups stand out for their focus on solving real problems within the manufacturing industry:• Adaptation to mass customization: In a market that demands increasingly personalized products, Mbodi and T-Robotics facilitate the reconfiguration of robots for quick changes on production lines.• Efficiency in industrial projects: Their solutions allow for a higher return on investment by reducing implementation costs and increasing productive capacity without the need for prolonged interruptions.• Democratized access to robotics: By making robotic systems easier to use, these startups are opening doors to small and medium-sized enterprises that previously could not afford advanced automation.The victory of Mbodi and T-Robotics in the ABB Robotics challenge not only recognizes their innovations but also highlights the crucial role of artificial intelligence in the evolution of industrial robotics. Their solutions not only promise to transform current production lines but also make automation an inclusive and accessible tool for any industry.By supporting these startups, ABB reinforces its commitment to developing technologies that enhance flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability in globalmanufacturing.