AILOS Robotics, based in Brussels, has made a significant stride in the robotics industry by raising €3.5 million in seed funding. This influx of capital, led by investors QBIC and High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF), will bolster the development of component supply crucial for humanoid and collaborative robotics. This investment aligns with Europe’s endeavor to enhance its technological capabilities within these advancing markets. The financial round also witnessed contributions from Wallonie Entreprendre and finance&invest.brussels.
What sets AILOS Robotics apart?
AILOS originated from Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and builds upon extensive research from the BruBotics research center. Over a decade of research, supported by regional bodies VLAIO and Innoviris, facilitated the creation of AILOS’s primary product, the R2poweR gearbox. This innovative gearbox is crafted specifically for applications in humanoids, exoskeletons, cobots, and prosthetic devices. AILOS designs its R2poweR gearbox to minimize backdrive torque while maximizing torque density, aiding in the efficient function of heavily loaded joints and contributing to reducing the energy requirements of robotic systems.
How will the new investment influence AILOS Robotics?
With the latest funding, AILOS Robotics aims to transition from laboratory prototypes to full-scale market manufacturing. This process involves engaging with global robot manufacturers for pilot projects and working alongside industrial partners to upscale the production capabilities. AILOS hopes to leverage this momentum to supply and lead strategic automation technologies in Europe. The R2poweR gearbox allows robots to be thinner, consume less energy, and operate quietly, alongside a focus on cost-effective production.
Previous information about AILOS highlighted its commitment to transforming robotic interactions through advanced gearbox technology. Recent developments and funding underscore the company’s shifted focus from development to large-scale production. AILOS’s prior activities were concentrated on exploring robotic viability, whereas the current aim is market penetration and establishing leadership in automation components globally.
Pablo López García, CEO and co-founder, emphasized the innovative nature of their technology:
We combine quasi-direct drive-like backdrivability with the high torque density of advanced gearing.
This new approach aims to eliminate obstacles in creating agile, lightweight, and human-friendly robots capable of operating securely alongside humans.
The evolution of AILOS Robotics from a research-focused endeavor to an industrial-ready entity represents an important step in robotics. The support from European investors highlights a regional push to establish European leadership in robotics technology. The R2poweR gearbox is essential for achieving ambitious goals in producing more efficient, safer, and highly capable robotics systems.
The funding round marks a pivotal moment for AILOS Robotics, as the company embarks on scaling its R2poweR gearboxes, potentially reshaping how robotic joints function globally. The focus on reducing costs while enhancing functionality resonates with current industry trends towards efficiency and sustainability. By engaging with a network of manufacturers and investors, AILOS is poised to make significant impacts in the automation sector.
López García further stated:
Finally removing one of the main barriers to agile, lightweight, and safe robots that can operate alongside humans.
This highlights AILOS’s commitment to making robotic systems more flexible and easily integrable into everyday human environments.
