Advantech partners with BOW for robotic software

Advantech is collaborating with UK startup BOW in Sheffield to merge robotic arm and autonomous mobile robot (AMR) hardware using a universal software development platform. The integrated devices aim to simplify the development of robotics systems by offering a robot-agnostic software development kit (SDK). This innovative approach allows developers to program various robots using their preferred operating system and programming language, facilitating seamless application portability between different robot models and enabling the control of robot fleets without the need for specialized robotics programmers.

BOW, which recently secured £4 million in seed funding, has developed a layer that streamlines the utilization of the open-source Robot Operating System (ROS). While ROS is crucial for creating multifunctional robotic applications, managing it across different robots can be challenging due to the unique device tree of each robot. Developers often face a steep learning curve and increased development time when working with multiple robots, as they must adapt to the specifics of each device tree.

By splitting the ROS stack into software and hardware integration layers, BOW acts as a bridge between the two components, enhancing the efficiency of ROS applications. The BOW SDK has been integrated into the Advantech AFE-R770, a specialized system designed for the AMR market. This system, powered by Intel processors, features dedicated I/Os for AMR, multiple connectivity options, and robust specifications tailored for AMR applications, such as operating temperature range, shock resistance, and wireless connectivity.

The partnership between Advantech and BOW targets industries like manufacturing, machine automation, telemedicine, and AgriTech, leveraging the capabilities of the AFE-R770 to enhance automation processes. The collaboration follows a recent seed funding round and the appointment of Liz Upton, co-founder of Raspberry Pi, as the chair of the BOW board. With the global robotics sector projected to reach $260 billion by 2030, the demand for advanced automation solutions is on the rise, highlighting the need for interoperable and efficient robotics technologies.

Advantech and BOW are showcasing the versatility of the AFE-R770 by demonstrating the integration of a UR5 arm and Sarcomere Dynamic Artus Lite hands software, expanding the application of the hardware beyond AMR systems. Reinier Middel, Senior Sales Director Embedded IoT of Advantech, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing how it simplifies the deployment of robotics applications and drives innovation across industries. Nick Thompson, CEO of BOW, highlighted the significance of the collaboration in providing integrated robotics hardware and software solutions, enabling industry-wide innovation and accelerating the integration of robotics and AI technologies.