Agility Robotics, the creators of the bipedal robot Digit, have announced the opening of RoboFab, the world’s first factory for humanoid robots. The facility, located in Salem, Oregon, is set to start operations in late 2023 and will have the capacity to produce 10,000 robots per year.
The construction of the 70,000-square-foot facility began last year and is in close proximity to other industrial hubs like the Amazon Fulfillment Center. Agility Robotics was one of the first recipients of Amazon’s $1 billion Industrial Innovation Fund in 2022.
According to Damion Shelton, co-founder and CEO of Agility Robotics, the opening of the Salem facility marks a significant milestone in the history of robots. It signifies the beginning of mass production of commercial humanoid robots, with the aim of solving workforce challenges such as injuries, burnout, high turnover, and labor shortages.
The factory will employ 500 human workers in Salem, who will work alongside the bipedal humanoid Digit robots. The goal is to have a production capacity of hundreds of Digit robots in the first year, scaling up to more than 10,000 robots per year.
Digit robots are designed to work alongside humans and perform tasks such as moving, loading, and unloading materials within warehouses and distribution centers. The company’s Agility Partner Program customers can expect to receive the first Digit robots in 2024, with general market availability in 2025.
Agility Robotics COO Aindrea Campbell, who previously held senior positions at Ford and Apple, is leading the launch of the new factory. The establishment of RoboFab in Salem not only accelerates the development and deployment of advanced robotic systems but also creates high-skilled job opportunities.
In conclusion, the opening of the world’s first factory for humanoid robots in Salem marks a significant milestone in the history of robotics. It paves the way for mass production of commercial humanoid robots, addressing workforce challenges and offering innovative solutions in various industries.
Definitions:
– Bipedal robot: A robot designed to walk on two legs, imitating human locomotion.
– Humanoid robot: A robot designed to resemble the human body structure and movement.
Sources:
– Statesman Journal