Innovation Works

CapSen Robotics, Inc., founded in 2016 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializes in advanced 3D computer vision systems that allow computers to interpret and navigate cluttered environments. The company offers a range of solutions, including cluttered object detection, scanning for both large and small objects, and object tracking, catering to diverse applications in factory automation, vehicle scanning, and retail inventory management. Drawing on research from MIT, CapSen’s technology enhances the capabilities of robots and computer vision systems, which are increasingly being utilized in less structured settings such as warehouses, hospitals, and homes. The company is currently beta testing its software with various system integrators and robotics firms, focusing on robotic picking applications and partnering with a major government contractor for a warehouse project. Their innovative object detection software has already demonstrated its effectiveness in competitive environments, such as a recent robotic order fulfillment competition.

Humotech is a developer of a wearable robotics platform that focuses on advancing research and development in areas such as prosthetics, orthotics, and exoskeletons. The company offers a system known as Caplex, which allows users to explore and innovate with reduced risk and shorter development timelines. Caplex serves as a programmable performance system that emulates real-world physical characteristics, enabling researchers to test their ideas before committing to physical prototypes. This platform provides high-performance, customizable, and expandable hardware and software, thereby facilitating the rapid development, testing, and evaluation of wearable assistive technology concepts with human users.

Journey Robotics is an aerospace engineering firm focused on developing automation tools designed to enhance the safety and efficiency of airline operations. The company aims to improve processes related to the loading, unloading, handling, and transport of passenger cargo. Currently, Journey Robotics is operating in stealth mode, indicating that it is in the early stages of its development and not yet publicly disclosing detailed information about its products or business strategies.

Phlux Technologies, Inc. is a developer of advanced 3D sensor technology aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency in robotics and automation. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company focuses on creating programmable 3D sensors that enable robots to navigate safely and collaboratively in industrial environments. By replacing traditional physical barriers with digital safety zones, Phlux's innovative products utilize proprietary optical sensing technology, artificial intelligence, and computer vision. These sensors help protect workers from hazardous machinery and alert vehicles to obstacles, ultimately freeing up floor space, reducing setup times, and improving overall productivity. Phlux Technologies is dedicated to enabling the development of smarter robots and self-driving vehicles, contributing to safer industrial operations.

Finish Robotics is focused on developing mobile robotics technology aimed at alleviating the labor shortage in the construction industry. The company specializes in creating semi-autonomous, collaborative robots that utilize standard industrial components. By leveraging this innovative technology, Finish Robotics enables contractors to effectively address the challenges faced by laborers on job sites, enhancing productivity and operational efficiency.

Voaige specializes in providing safe and versatile robotic arms to address labor shortages across various industries. The company is comprised of a dedicated team of AI PhDs and robotics engineers from Carnegie Mellon University, focused on leveraging cutting-edge artificial intelligence to tackle significant real-world challenges. Voaige also develops automation software that enhances tools automation, utilizing a deep space artificial intelligence platform. This technology allows robotic developers to automate previously unmanageable tasks efficiently, ultimately saving time and reducing costs for clients. By making advanced AI solutions more accessible, Voaige empowers businesses to incorporate automation into their production processes and operations effectively.

Grasp Robotics is evolving into a robotics firm with a wide range of robotic solutions targeted to certain sectors and applications where robots are unable to perform critical jobs.

Voaige specializes in providing safe and versatile robotic arms to address labor shortages across various industries. The company is comprised of a dedicated team of AI PhDs and robotics engineers from Carnegie Mellon University, focused on leveraging cutting-edge artificial intelligence to tackle significant real-world challenges. Voaige also develops automation software that enhances tools automation, utilizing a deep space artificial intelligence platform. This technology allows robotic developers to automate previously unmanageable tasks efficiently, ultimately saving time and reducing costs for clients. By making advanced AI solutions more accessible, Voaige empowers businesses to incorporate automation into their production processes and operations effectively.

Safe Space Technologies develops advanced robotic systems that utilize ultraviolet-C (UV-C) light disinfection technology to enhance workplace safety by effectively deactivating harmful pathogens. These robots serve as a superior alternative to traditional disinfection services, allowing for more thorough sanitization of various environments. By employing innovative disinfection methods, Safe Space Technologies aims to create safer working conditions and improve overall public health.

CapSen Robotics, Inc., founded in 2016 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializes in advanced 3D computer vision systems that allow computers to interpret and navigate cluttered environments. The company offers a range of solutions, including cluttered object detection, scanning for both large and small objects, and object tracking, catering to diverse applications in factory automation, vehicle scanning, and retail inventory management. Drawing on research from MIT, CapSen’s technology enhances the capabilities of robots and computer vision systems, which are increasingly being utilized in less structured settings such as warehouses, hospitals, and homes. The company is currently beta testing its software with various system integrators and robotics firms, focusing on robotic picking applications and partnering with a major government contractor for a warehouse project. Their innovative object detection software has already demonstrated its effectiveness in competitive environments, such as a recent robotic order fulfillment competition.

Phlux Technologies, Inc. is a developer of advanced 3D sensor technology aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency in robotics and automation. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company focuses on creating programmable 3D sensors that enable robots to navigate safely and collaboratively in industrial environments. By replacing traditional physical barriers with digital safety zones, Phlux's innovative products utilize proprietary optical sensing technology, artificial intelligence, and computer vision. These sensors help protect workers from hazardous machinery and alert vehicles to obstacles, ultimately freeing up floor space, reducing setup times, and improving overall productivity. Phlux Technologies is dedicated to enabling the development of smarter robots and self-driving vehicles, contributing to safer industrial operations.

Finish Robotics is focused on developing mobile robotics technology aimed at alleviating the labor shortage in the construction industry. The company specializes in creating semi-autonomous, collaborative robots that utilize standard industrial components. By leveraging this innovative technology, Finish Robotics enables contractors to effectively address the challenges faced by laborers on job sites, enhancing productivity and operational efficiency.

ESTAT Actuation, founded in 2019 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializes in the development of electroadhesive clutches aimed at enhancing the capabilities and affordability of robots and machines. The company's innovative products provide engineers with advanced actuation hardware that reduces both the size and cost of traditional actuators. By offering lightweight and low-power clutches, ESTAT Actuation enables clients to improve the performance and efficiency of their robotic systems and machinery.

Phlux Technologies, Inc. is a developer of advanced 3D sensor technology aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency in robotics and automation. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company focuses on creating programmable 3D sensors that enable robots to navigate safely and collaboratively in industrial environments. By replacing traditional physical barriers with digital safety zones, Phlux's innovative products utilize proprietary optical sensing technology, artificial intelligence, and computer vision. These sensors help protect workers from hazardous machinery and alert vehicles to obstacles, ultimately freeing up floor space, reducing setup times, and improving overall productivity. Phlux Technologies is dedicated to enabling the development of smarter robots and self-driving vehicles, contributing to safer industrial operations.

ESTAT Actuation, founded in 2019 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializes in the development of electroadhesive clutches aimed at enhancing the capabilities and affordability of robots and machines. The company's innovative products provide engineers with advanced actuation hardware that reduces both the size and cost of traditional actuators. By offering lightweight and low-power clutches, ESTAT Actuation enables clients to improve the performance and efficiency of their robotic systems and machinery.

Rapid Flow Technologies spun out of Carnegie Mellon University with the goal of introducing new Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) technologies into the marketplace. Rapid Flow was created to commercialize the Surtrac adaptive traffic signal control technology developed in the Robotics Institute at Carnegie Mellon as part of the Traffic21 research initiative. The company’s founders include the original inventors of Surtrac, who have successfully expanded the initial pilot deployment of Surtrac in Pittsburgh to a network of 50 intersections over the past three years. Rapid Flow holds an exclusive license to the patented Surtrac technology from Carnegie Mellon University, and the University has a stake in the company. In addition to Surtrac, Rapid Flow is also engaged in the development of ubiquitous Bluetooth AVI sensor network technology for ITS performance modeling and other applications through a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Hebi Robotics specializes in developing modular robotic technologies that streamline the creation of robotic solutions. Their offerings include customizable robot kits, such as robotic arms and mobile bases, as well as modules and sensors equipped with elastic actuators. These components enable precise control over torque, position, and velocity, allowing engineers and researchers to integrate sophisticated robotic systems more efficiently. By providing well-defined interfaces and internet-enabled connectivity, Hebi Robotics empowers users to focus on high-level tasks rather than technical implementation details. This approach not only accelerates development but also reduces costs through customization, ensuring that clients only purchase necessary components. Ultimately, Hebi Robotics aims to deliver faster, better, and more cost-effective robotic solutions tailored to specific applications.

CapSen Robotics, Inc., founded in 2016 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializes in advanced 3D computer vision systems that allow computers to interpret and navigate cluttered environments. The company offers a range of solutions, including cluttered object detection, scanning for both large and small objects, and object tracking, catering to diverse applications in factory automation, vehicle scanning, and retail inventory management. Drawing on research from MIT, CapSen’s technology enhances the capabilities of robots and computer vision systems, which are increasingly being utilized in less structured settings such as warehouses, hospitals, and homes. The company is currently beta testing its software with various system integrators and robotics firms, focusing on robotic picking applications and partnering with a major government contractor for a warehouse project. Their innovative object detection software has already demonstrated its effectiveness in competitive environments, such as a recent robotic order fulfillment competition.

nanoGriptech, Inc. specializes in manufacturing micro-fibrillar polymer-based dry adhesives and surfaces, drawing inspiration from the natural adhesion mechanism of gecko feet. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company offers a range of products, including the Setex Gecko Tape, which is a repeatable, residue-free, non-tacky tape, and the Setex Ultra-Thin Fastener, designed for seamless integration with smooth surfaces. Its innovative adhesive solutions are tailored for diverse applications such as wearables, sports gear, semiconductors, robotics, medical devices, automotive components, and packaging. nanoGriptech aims to provide a superior alternative to traditional reusable adhesives, focusing on durability and customization. The company has established partnerships with multinational corporations and has recently begun small volume sales in the high-friction clothing market.

ESTAT Actuation, founded in 2019 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializes in the development of electroadhesive clutches aimed at enhancing the capabilities and affordability of robots and machines. The company's innovative products provide engineers with advanced actuation hardware that reduces both the size and cost of traditional actuators. By offering lightweight and low-power clutches, ESTAT Actuation enables clients to improve the performance and efficiency of their robotic systems and machinery.

CleanRobotics, Inc., based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, manufactures TrashBot, an autonomous system designed to streamline the recycling process. This innovative device utilizes robotics, computer vision, and artificial intelligence to effectively distinguish between landfill waste and recyclables. By automating waste sorting, TrashBot makes recycling more affordable for businesses and enhances profitability for recycling facilities. The system is equipped with cloud-connected technology that employs cameras and sensors to analyze discarded items, providing valuable data to recyclers. This approach not only reduces waste hauling costs for businesses but also offers sustainable solutions to pressing environmental challenges.

CapSen Robotics, Inc., founded in 2016 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializes in advanced 3D computer vision systems that allow computers to interpret and navigate cluttered environments. The company offers a range of solutions, including cluttered object detection, scanning for both large and small objects, and object tracking, catering to diverse applications in factory automation, vehicle scanning, and retail inventory management. Drawing on research from MIT, CapSen’s technology enhances the capabilities of robots and computer vision systems, which are increasingly being utilized in less structured settings such as warehouses, hospitals, and homes. The company is currently beta testing its software with various system integrators and robotics firms, focusing on robotic picking applications and partnering with a major government contractor for a warehouse project. Their innovative object detection software has already demonstrated its effectiveness in competitive environments, such as a recent robotic order fulfillment competition.

EXGwear specializes in the development of wearable and artificial intelligence devices aimed at improving mental health, productivity, and human-machine interactions. The company produces compact wearable Internet of Things (IoT) devices that utilize brain-computer interface technology, allowing users to interact seamlessly with assistive robotic devices. Additionally, EXGwear's technology enables the tracking of users' mental states through the analysis of brain wave signals, facilitating enhanced user convenience and productivity.

nanoGriptech, Inc. specializes in manufacturing micro-fibrillar polymer-based dry adhesives and surfaces, drawing inspiration from the natural adhesion mechanism of gecko feet. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company offers a range of products, including the Setex Gecko Tape, which is a repeatable, residue-free, non-tacky tape, and the Setex Ultra-Thin Fastener, designed for seamless integration with smooth surfaces. Its innovative adhesive solutions are tailored for diverse applications such as wearables, sports gear, semiconductors, robotics, medical devices, automotive components, and packaging. nanoGriptech aims to provide a superior alternative to traditional reusable adhesives, focusing on durability and customization. The company has established partnerships with multinational corporations and has recently begun small volume sales in the high-friction clothing market.

Velocity Robotics, Inc. is a construction technology company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, that develops and manufactures advanced workflow tools and automated positioning systems utilizing robotics and Internet of Things technology. Founded in 2015, the company focuses on enhancing precision and efficiency in various construction operations, including metal stud framing, soffit fabrication, decorative panel installation, finish carpentry, and aluminum window frame installation. Their innovative tools, such as a Bluetooth-enabled tape measure and smart miter saw fence, help eliminate human error in measurement, improve productivity, and reduce waste. By providing valuable data for project managers, Velocity Robotics aims to streamline workflows across the construction sector, bridging practical fabrication needs with high-tech solutions.

Onward Robotics specializes in automation technology that integrates humans and robots to enhance efficiency in fulfillment operations. The company offers a solution called Meet Me, which combines proprietary software with person-to-goods mobile robots. This technology is designed for e-commerce, warehousing, distribution, and logistics, helping organizations improve productivity, flexibility, and speed. Onward Robotics' autonomous material handling robots can navigate human-friendly environments, accurately identify objects, and pick items or bins at speeds comparable to human workers. This capability allows businesses to streamline their logistics processes and maintain a competitive edge in the growing automation landscape.

Rapid Flow Technologies spun out of Carnegie Mellon University with the goal of introducing new Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) technologies into the marketplace. Rapid Flow was created to commercialize the Surtrac adaptive traffic signal control technology developed in the Robotics Institute at Carnegie Mellon as part of the Traffic21 research initiative. The company’s founders include the original inventors of Surtrac, who have successfully expanded the initial pilot deployment of Surtrac in Pittsburgh to a network of 50 intersections over the past three years. Rapid Flow holds an exclusive license to the patented Surtrac technology from Carnegie Mellon University, and the University has a stake in the company. In addition to Surtrac, Rapid Flow is also engaged in the development of ubiquitous Bluetooth AVI sensor network technology for ITS performance modeling and other applications through a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Kaarta, Inc. specializes in 3D model generation software that processes environmental data to create accurate, multi-dimensional digital models. The company’s technology enables real-time mobile 3D reality capture, allowing users to map complex environments without the need for external signals such as GPS or Wi-Fi. Kaarta offers a hand-held 3D scanning system called Contour, which allows users to generate a 3D map while moving through an environment, as well as Stencil 2, a mobile mapping platform designed for rapid scanning. Utilizing advanced robotics and proprietary algorithms, Kaarta's solutions streamline workflows and reduce costs while enhancing understanding of physical spaces for both humans and autonomous machines. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company was previously known as Real Earth, Inc. before rebranding in December 2016.

Digital Dream Labs is an educational technology company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, founded in 2012. It specializes in creating hands-on learning products designed for children aged 4 to 9, focusing on engaging and interactive experiences. The company's offerings include language- and system-agnostic designs that enable pre-readers to interact seamlessly with both digital environments and various devices, such as educational robots, smart speakers, and drones. By blending play with learning, Digital Dream Labs aims to foster children's interest in education through innovative technology.

CapSen Robotics, Inc., founded in 2016 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializes in advanced 3D computer vision systems that allow computers to interpret and navigate cluttered environments. The company offers a range of solutions, including cluttered object detection, scanning for both large and small objects, and object tracking, catering to diverse applications in factory automation, vehicle scanning, and retail inventory management. Drawing on research from MIT, CapSen’s technology enhances the capabilities of robots and computer vision systems, which are increasingly being utilized in less structured settings such as warehouses, hospitals, and homes. The company is currently beta testing its software with various system integrators and robotics firms, focusing on robotic picking applications and partnering with a major government contractor for a warehouse project. Their innovative object detection software has already demonstrated its effectiveness in competitive environments, such as a recent robotic order fulfillment competition.

Hebi Robotics specializes in developing modular robotic technologies that streamline the creation of robotic solutions. Their offerings include customizable robot kits, such as robotic arms and mobile bases, as well as modules and sensors equipped with elastic actuators. These components enable precise control over torque, position, and velocity, allowing engineers and researchers to integrate sophisticated robotic systems more efficiently. By providing well-defined interfaces and internet-enabled connectivity, Hebi Robotics empowers users to focus on high-level tasks rather than technical implementation details. This approach not only accelerates development but also reduces costs through customization, ensuring that clients only purchase necessary components. Ultimately, Hebi Robotics aims to deliver faster, better, and more cost-effective robotic solutions tailored to specific applications.

Digital Dream Labs is an educational technology company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, founded in 2012. It specializes in creating hands-on learning products designed for children aged 4 to 9, focusing on engaging and interactive experiences. The company's offerings include language- and system-agnostic designs that enable pre-readers to interact seamlessly with both digital environments and various devices, such as educational robots, smart speakers, and drones. By blending play with learning, Digital Dream Labs aims to foster children's interest in education through innovative technology.

nanoGriptech, Inc. specializes in manufacturing micro-fibrillar polymer-based dry adhesives and surfaces, drawing inspiration from the natural adhesion mechanism of gecko feet. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company offers a range of products, including the Setex Gecko Tape, which is a repeatable, residue-free, non-tacky tape, and the Setex Ultra-Thin Fastener, designed for seamless integration with smooth surfaces. Its innovative adhesive solutions are tailored for diverse applications such as wearables, sports gear, semiconductors, robotics, medical devices, automotive components, and packaging. nanoGriptech aims to provide a superior alternative to traditional reusable adhesives, focusing on durability and customization. The company has established partnerships with multinational corporations and has recently begun small volume sales in the high-friction clothing market.

Onward Robotics specializes in automation technology that integrates humans and robots to enhance efficiency in fulfillment operations. The company offers a solution called Meet Me, which combines proprietary software with person-to-goods mobile robots. This technology is designed for e-commerce, warehousing, distribution, and logistics, helping organizations improve productivity, flexibility, and speed. Onward Robotics' autonomous material handling robots can navigate human-friendly environments, accurately identify objects, and pick items or bins at speeds comparable to human workers. This capability allows businesses to streamline their logistics processes and maintain a competitive edge in the growing automation landscape.

nanoGriptech, Inc. specializes in manufacturing micro-fibrillar polymer-based dry adhesives and surfaces, drawing inspiration from the natural adhesion mechanism of gecko feet. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company offers a range of products, including the Setex Gecko Tape, which is a repeatable, residue-free, non-tacky tape, and the Setex Ultra-Thin Fastener, designed for seamless integration with smooth surfaces. Its innovative adhesive solutions are tailored for diverse applications such as wearables, sports gear, semiconductors, robotics, medical devices, automotive components, and packaging. nanoGriptech aims to provide a superior alternative to traditional reusable adhesives, focusing on durability and customization. The company has established partnerships with multinational corporations and has recently begun small volume sales in the high-friction clothing market.

RE2 Robotics, based in Pittsburgh, PA, is a Carnegie Mellon University spin-off founded in 2001 by Jorgen Pedersen. The company specializes in developing intelligent mobile manipulation systems designed for various industries, including defense, aviation, construction, energy, and healthcare. RE2 Robotics creates manipulator arms that offer human-like performance and intuitive interfaces, allowing users to remotely perform tasks in challenging environments, whether on the ground, in the air, or underwater. With a significant focus on military applications, over 400 of its robotic arms have been deployed for explosive ordnance disposal missions, enhancing safety and efficiency while reducing operational costs. The company's innovative technologies aim to save lives and improve the quality of life through advanced robotics.

Digital Dream Labs is an educational technology company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, founded in 2012. It specializes in creating hands-on learning products designed for children aged 4 to 9, focusing on engaging and interactive experiences. The company's offerings include language- and system-agnostic designs that enable pre-readers to interact seamlessly with both digital environments and various devices, such as educational robots, smart speakers, and drones. By blending play with learning, Digital Dream Labs aims to foster children's interest in education through innovative technology.

4moms is a company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, that specializes in developing robotics technology-based products designed for children from prenatal stages to preschool age. By introducing innovative technology to the juvenile industry, 4moms addresses the practical needs of parents with a range of childcare products. The company offers a variety of items, including baby gear and toys, aimed at fulfilling the diverse requirements of young children. With a team of over forty engineers, designers, and developers, 4moms has successfully placed its products in more than 500 stores across 24 countries, making a significant impact in the $8.9 billion U.S. juvenile products market.

4moms is a company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, that specializes in developing robotics technology-based products designed for children from prenatal stages to preschool age. By introducing innovative technology to the juvenile industry, 4moms addresses the practical needs of parents with a range of childcare products. The company offers a variety of items, including baby gear and toys, aimed at fulfilling the diverse requirements of young children. With a team of over forty engineers, designers, and developers, 4moms has successfully placed its products in more than 500 stores across 24 countries, making a significant impact in the $8.9 billion U.S. juvenile products market.

RedZone Robotics, Inc. is a company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with an additional office in Auckland, New Zealand, specializing in wastewater asset management solutions. Founded in 1987, it provides a range of services including multi-sensor inspection, advanced pipeline assessment, and specialized reporting. The company develops proprietary robotic and software tools designed for the wastewater industry, enabling municipalities, contractors, and engineering firms to effectively manage their sewer pipeline systems. By offering high-performance inspection products and data collection services, RedZone Robotics empowers clients to make informed maintenance and capital expenditure decisions, ultimately maximizing their return on investment and reducing the risk of system failures.