Aptiv and Robust.AI Team Up for AI-Powered Collaborative Robots
Aptiv, a technology leader committed to a safer, greener, and more connected future, has partnered with Robust.AI, a pioneer in AI-driven industrial automation, to co-develop AI-powered collaborative robots (cobots).
This strategic partnership merges Aptiv’s industry-leading technologies, including Wind River platforms, with Robust.AI’s robotics expertise and human-centered design. Together, they aim to accelerate innovation in warehouse and industrial automation.
Combining Expertise to Drive Innovation
Javed Khan, EVP and President of Software, Advanced Safety, and User Experience at Aptiv, explains:
“By integrating Aptiv’s intelligent perception, compute, and software solutions with Robust.AI’s innovative robotics platform, we are accelerating the deployment of scalable, AI-powered solutions that deliver real value across multiple industries.”
The collaboration leverages Aptiv’s perception portfolio and machine learning technologies to deliver secure, efficient, and scalable robotic workflows.
Key Features of the Joint Solution
The AI-powered collaborative robots will include several advanced components:
- Aptiv PULSE Sensor: A compact 360-degree sensing camera paired with ultrashort-range radar for reliable, precise detection.
- Radar ML & Behavior ML: Machine learning for real-time perception and dynamic path planning in complex environments.
- Robust.AI Platform Architecture: Advanced optical sensors, SLAM capabilities, a patented holonomic drive system, and intuitive human collaboration features.
- Expanded Proof-of-Concept (PoC): Utilizes Aptiv compute and Wind River platforms, including VxWorks RTOS and Helix Hypervisor, for low-latency, high-performance operations.
Carter: The Multi-Functional Collaborative Robot
Robust.AI’s Carter cobot is designed to enhance workforce productivity across multiple workflows. Its software-defined functionality combines three robots into one:
- Fulfillment picking
- Point-to-point transport
- Mobile sorting
Carter’s drop-in automation provides rapid productivity gains, workflow optimization, and continuous learning capabilities, enabling customers to adapt it dynamically to their facility’s needs.
AI-Driven Human Collaboration and Safety
Rodney Brooks, co-founder and CTO at Robust.AI, highlights:
“Aptiv’s expertise in AI models, sensors, and real-time operating systems enhances Carter’s ability to safely collaborate with humans in dynamic environments. These capabilities allow Carter to deliver unmatched productivity and efficiency benefits.”
Scalable Production and Global Impact
Aptiv’s integration capabilities, global presence, and resilient supply chain ensure the large-scale production of these AI-powered collaborative robots across diverse markets. Meanwhile, Robust.AI can focus on human-centric design and AI-powered workflows, ensuring cost-effective deployment without compromising innovation.
Conclusion
The Aptiv-Robust.AI partnership marks a major milestone in industrial and warehouse automation. By combining cutting-edge AI technologies with collaborative robotics, these AI-powered collaborative robots are set to redefine efficiency, safety, and adaptability in modern industrial operations.
