ABB Robotics Names T-Robotics and Mbodi as AI Startup Challenge Winners!

ABB Robotics has announced T-Robotics and Mbodi as the winners of its 2024 AI Startup Challenge, which aims to advance artificial intelligence in industrial robotics. These two pioneering startups stood out among over 100 global applicants for their innovative AI solutions that promise to revolutionize how robots adapt to complex manufacturing environments.

Marc Segura, President of ABB Robotics, emphasized the significance of the startups’ contributions, stating, “Today’s manufacturing challenges demand solutions that combine simplicity with sophisticated AI capabilities. T-Robotics and Mbodi demonstrated groundbreaking innovations, and by collaborating with both, we will accelerate the development of more intuitive, adaptable, and easier-to-use robotic solutions that will make businesses more efficient, flexible, and resilient.”

T-Robotics introduced a physical AI model that allows operators to program robots through natural conversation, backed by precision-driven industry-specific skill models. This technology reduces programming time while maintaining optimal performance in diverse manufacturing scenarios.

“The convergence of robotics and physical AI will transform how manufacturing operates,” said Asad Tirmizi, Founder of T-Robotics. “We’re thrilled to partner with ABB in pioneering this transition towards a future where robots become intelligent assistants helping us produce better.”

Mbodi’s AI platform enables real-time skill acquisition, allowing robots to learn and adapt to new tasks through natural language commands and demonstrations. This technology is especially beneficial for businesses engaged in high-mix, low-volume production environments, offering flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

“We’re augmenting the industrial robotics experience through cutting-edge generative AI that fulfils evolving customer needs,” said Sebastian Peralta, Co-founder and CEO of Mbodi. “ABB’s enthusiasm for disruptive technologies like ours will be instrumental in driving this transformation.”

Both startups will receive $30,000 in project funding, a six-month membership to SynerLeap, ABB’s startup accelerator, and direct collaboration with ABB’s technology experts to develop market-ready solutions.

The collaboration aims to create intuitive robotic solutions, with T-Robotics and Mbodi expected to launch their first commercial applications with ABB by 2025. This initiative underscores ABB’s commitment to fostering innovation and addressing evolving challenges in manufacturing through artificial intelligence.

By integrating advanced AI technologies from T-Robotics and Mbodi, ABB Robotics is set to lead the next wave of innovation in industrial automation, paving the way for smarter, more adaptable robotic solutions.