Listen to this article

Skyline Robotics leverages industrial robotics arms to autonomously wash skyscraper windows. | Credit: Skyline Robotics

Skyline Robotics is innovating the way that skyscraper windows are cleaned with the Osmo high-rise window cleaning robot. The novel solution uses a combination of LiDAR sensors and machine vision to locate the windows. It then uses a commercial industrial robot arm, with force feedback, to clean the window surface.

The entire window cleaning structure uses the same window cleaning hoist infrastructure that’s in place on the roof of every skyscraper. This means that Osmo can be deployed onto any existing skyscraper to clean the windows.

The concept removes humans from the dangers of working on the outside of tall skyscrapers and enables the window cleaning crew to operate and monitor Osmo’s progress from a safer location.

The company announced this week that it completed a $6.5M pre-series A funding round as it prepares for the first customer deployment of Osmo in New York City. The company plan to use the money to begin the process of building and deploying production units.

Skyline Standard Holdings led the round with contributions from Karcher New Venture GmbH, Gefen Capital and others. The funding will be used across a variety of business operations including expanding its New York City team, as well as continued product development and new capabilities to own the facade operations of the future. To date, Skyline Robotics has raised $9 million.

“Ozmo has arrived to play a vital role in the future of window cleaning,” said Michael Brown, CEO & chairman of Skyline Robotics. “This successful funding round and first Ozmo deployment shows that the demand for our product and services are not just tangible and felt by investors, but that there’s a major business opportunity ahead of Skyline. The conviction of our team is being matched by the investment community.”

“Kärcher is pleased to continue to support Skyline Robotics on its mission to create a more efficient and safer work environment for window cleaning on a global scale,” said Patrick Nennewitz of Kärcher New Ventures GmbH. “Skyline’s ability to transform an industry with robots while still creating jobs is a model that other robotics companies should replicate. With buildings getting taller and the workforce shrinking, Skyline’s arrival is as timely as it is necessary.”

In addition to the funding news, the company also announced that Ross Blum has been promoted to president of the company. Ross will continue to serve a dual role as Skyline’s Chief Operating Officer. The company is based in Tel Aviv, but has an office in New York City.

“Being part of a company that continues to challenge antiquated operational strategies motivates us, drives us, and enhances our focus of the value we can provide to an entire industry,” said Ross Blum, president & COO of Skyline Robotics. “The window-cleaning industry has remained unchanged as buildings have gotten taller and the risks to human lives have increased significantly. We’re offering a breakthrough solution that will save lives, improve efficiency and create 21st century jobs.”