Solar Installing robots are here! Meet RoboForce

In this talk

1. 1:27

   Robots for demanding outdoor work

   RoboForce is developing robots for repetitive, physically demanding jobs in difficult environments, including solar construction, mining, and space automation. The team says its initial focus is solar, where robots could place panels and secure them with bolts and nuts.

2. 3:16

   Targeting lower installation costs

   Leo says RoboForce aims to bring robot labor to about one-third of the all-in cost of the work, with a goal of reducing labor and installation expenses by more than half. He also points to labor shortages as a cause of delayed or canceled projects.

3. 10:39

   A path toward fleet autonomy

   RoboForce plans to increase autonomy over time, starting with its co-pilot system for fleet management and assistance. The longer-term operating model is for one person to manage multiple robots, rather than assigning a person to each machine.

4. 13:00

   Designed for solar job sites

   The robot combines sensor types and is designed to move, handle objects, learn, communicate, and follow safety requirements. Its adjustable lifting column can reach under solar structures and up to around 8 to 10 feet; the team says some contractors need up to 12 feet. RoboForce also describes a modular design that can change the base, body, or hand for different tasks.

5. 16:51

   Industrial work, with a stated launch plan

   RoboForce says the displayed machine is an advanced prototype intended for early customer and partner field projects, with a finished product planned for release later that year. The robot weighs about 150 kilograms, or 330 pounds, and the company frames its purpose as outdoor industrial labor rather than household assistance.