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Rainbow Robotics has signed a memorandum of understanding with Schaeffler Group and the Korea Electronics Technology Institute, or KETI, to co-develop mobile manipulators driven by artificial intelligence. Under the agreement, the three organizations will develop mobile dual-armed robots and the corresponding operation technologies for autonomous manufacturing.

The companies said they also hope to identify new business models to expand strategically into the global market. The signing ceremony included Dr. Michael Pausch, chief technology officer of Schaeffler’s Industrial division; Lee Jung-ho, CEO of Rainbow Robotics; and Shin Hee-Dong, president of KETI.

“Rainbow Robotics has already initiated technical development cooperation with Schaeffler for the development of mobile dual-arm robots through pilot projects,” Jung-ho said in a release. “It is significant for us to advance AI mobile dual-arm robot technology with Schaeffler, a global automotive and industrial machinery specialist with extensive expertise, and KETI, leading the research in AI-based manufacturing innovation technology, to contribute to the commercialization of autonomous manufacturing in the global market.”

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Trio developing robots to use across manufacturing

Under the agreement, Schaeffler will develop and supply key components for the system. This includes gearboxes for mobile dual-arm robots. KETI will support the application of AI technology for manufacturing processes based on international standards. 

In addition, Rainbow Robotics will be responsible for developing AI-based robot operation systems. The company will also oversee the production of the mobile dual-arm robot. 

“Through this agreement, we will provide KETI’s technology for the development of [an] AI, mobile dual-arm robot with Rainbow Robotics and Schaeffler Group, bolstering the creation of a successful model for global R&D,” said Hee-Dong in a release. 

As part of the collaboration, the partners plan to deploy these mobile arms in production sites across Germany and Korea. They said they hope to develop successful use cases for autonomous manufacturing and promote joint cooperation to expand sales to global markets. 

“Korea stands at the forefront of the robotics industry, and we are excited to partner with Rainbow Robotics in driving advancements in this area,” stated Pausch. “As a leading global motion technology company, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation to create automated solutions that enhance efficiency and contribute to the evolution of smart and sustainable production processes.”

The three companies said they will develop AI and robotics technologies to be used in factories across the entire manufacturing process. They asserted that such technology can sustainably increase the production efficiency of smart factories with minimal human intervention. 

Rainbow Robotics, Schaeffler, and KETI gear up for cooperation

As part of a three-day visit, Rainbow Robotics, and KETI representatives visited Schaeffler AG’s headquarters in Herzongenaurach, Germany, to further discuss robotics component development.

The teams also visited Schaeffler’s Digital Transformation Center and its Innovation and Technology Centre for Production Systems. The sites in Erlangen, Germany, are developing and demonstrating future production technologies.

The company said it supplies innovative products and systems in the field of motion technology. These include high-precision components and systems for several automotive and industrial applications.

In particular, Schaeffler said it focuses on expanding smart and digital automation systems. It claimed to be a leading provider of precision components and systems for industrial and lightweight robotics.

Meanwhile, Rainbow Robotics is pursuing its leap into a leading robot platform specialist in the global robot market. The South Korean company, which has offices in Schaumburg, Ill., said its robots have “world-class quality, Korean-style service, and reasonable prices” as part of its strategy.