Festo and MassRobotics form robotics and automation partnership

Esslingen, Germany-based Festo has entered into a strategic partnership with MassRobotics of Boston, to further global market growth and innovation initiatives dedicated to the development of the next generation of robotics.

MassRobotics, an independent, nonprofit group serving as an innovation hub for robotics and smart connected devices, works to foster a collaborative space in which to inspire the next generation of robotics and automation innovators and builders. The organization’s unique “escalator” model allows startups to establish, grow, offer meaningful employment, and provide ongoing value for MassRobotics’ partner organizations.

MassRobotics also creates a supportive learning environment to engage youth and future engineers and entrepreneurs by offering Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) workshops, competitions, and technical internships. MassRobotics supports the Ventilator Project, founded by entrepreneurs located at MassRobotics. The Ventilator Project aims to solve the ventilator shortage crisis with an innovative low-cost ventilator designed by members; the team is currently seeking FDA approval for the device.

“We are pleased to announce our partnership with MassRobotics,” said Alfons Riek, VP Technology and Innovation, Festo. “Combining Festo’s in-depth know-how in manufacturing applications and automation technology with the MassRobotics community will enable Festo to engage with robotics and automation startups. We will collaborate with entrepreneurs and academia alike in bringing innovative new automation and robotic concepts and solutions to market.”

“The Boston area, with its high density of robotic expertise, is very interesting for us and we expect many unique opportunities for our robotic development through the partnership with MassRobotics,” said Christian Tarragona, VP Festo Robotics.

Carlos Miranda, CEO, Festo North America, added, “Festo and the MassRobotics community will explore the evolution of automated manufacturing solutions to autonomous ones. Through technology challenge engagements, members will co-develop and commercialize advanced products and systems.”

Festo provides automation learning systems through its Didactic Division. It promotes public and private alliances that implement apprenticeship programs, investing heavily in research and development. The Bionic Learning Network, for example, creates novel solutions based on designs found in nature, and emphasizes Festo partnerships with academia and technology businesses.

“MassRobotics and Festo share a vision to develop robotic solutions dedicated to the emerging needs of the manufacturing sector,” said Fady Saad, co-founder and VP of Strategic Partnerships, MassRobotics. “Having an automation company with the expertise, resources, and leading-edge development capabilities of Festo will further the mission of MassRobotics and create excitement about our collaborative efforts.”