Agility Robotics, a leading robotics company, is preparing to launch a groundbreaking humanoid robot factory called RoboFab in Salem, Oregon. The facility will mass produce a line of humanoid robots named Digit, which are designed to function as robotic co-workers capable of navigating various environments such as factories and warehouses.
Digit, equipped with two arms and two legs, possesses the ability to climb stairs and access tight spaces, ensuring it can operate effectively alongside human workers. The innovative design of the robot emphasizes balance and flexibility to optimize its functionality. The factory, with an annual production capacity of up to 10,000 units, is expected to provide employment to over 500 individuals.
The 70,000-square-foot RoboFab is the first factory of its kind, marking a significant achievement for Agility Robotics. The company plans to implement a phased ramp-up process for the facility, with the installation and testing of the initial production lines currently underway. Agility Robotics secured funding for the project from prominent venture capital investors.
Digit’s capabilities make it ideal for tasks such as lifting, sorting, and material handling. Its rechargeable lithium-ion batteries provide power, and its claw-like hands with five fingers can perform various tasks efficiently. Agility Robotics intends to use Digit within its own factory operations for transporting materials, sorting, and distribution. The company also aims to prioritize its preferred partners for robot deployment next year, focusing on sales rather than renting or leasing the systems.
Agility Robotics CEO, Damion Shelton, believes that Digit will help address labor shortages and fill unmet roles in logistics and manufacturing businesses. By introducing humanoid robots like Digit, companies can meet increasing demands and overcome recruitment challenges. The design of Agility Robotics’ humanoid robots prioritizes safety and autonomy, ensuring that they function reliably as cooperative co-workers.
Sources:
– Agility Robotics Factory Announcement
– CNBC article on Agility Robotics’ humanoid robot factory