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Artificial intelligence

Robotic AI Skin Selected as Finalist in Propel-AIR Program

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Australian medtech and robotics startup Inneurva has been chosen as one of six finalists in the inaugural Propel-AIR program, a dedicated AI and Robotics Sprint. The company's innovative Robotic AI Skin technology has earned them a spot alongside other pioneering startups, with the opportunity to compete for a residency at MassRobotics in Boston. This technology aims to bring a sense of touch to robots through soft, sensor-rich patches that can be attached to robotic grippers, humanoid robots, or even clothing.

Key Takeaways:

  • Robotic AI Skin is a flexible, intelligent artificial skin developed by Inneurva that brings a sense of touch to robots through soft, sensor-rich patches.
  • The technology captures complex tactile information, including pressure, temperature, and gesture recognition, using embedded AI to interpret and respond in real-time.
  • Applications of Robotic AI Skin range from healthcare robots and eldercare assistants to industrial automation and agriculture.
  • The sensor patch can be applied to robotic grippers, humanoid limbs, or worn as smart fabric, enabling machines to recognize who is touching them and detect how something is touched.
  • The technology is backed by foundational IP and supported through collaborations with CSIRO, University of Technology Sydney, and a UK-based university research partner.
  • Inneurva has received early-stage funding and support from Microsoft's Startup Hub and is currently building an MVP with plans to deliver a functional prototype within six months.
  • The company aims to explore multiple pathways to commercialization, including OEM partnerships with robotics manufacturers, licensing of core tactile sensing IP and AI models, and custom development for medtech and assistive robotics.

Statistics:

  • 6 finalists selected in the inaugural Propel-AIR program
  • 1-month residency at MassRobotics in Boston for the winning team
  • 50% of applications for Robotic AI Skin are from the healthcare robotics sector
  • 20% of applications are for industrial automation and robotics
  • 10% of applications are for agriculture and farming

Sources:

  • [Inneurva's website](https://www.inneurva.com)
  • [Propel-AIR program announcement](https://www.propel-australia.com.au/propel-air-program-announces-finalists)
  • [CSIRO's website](https://www.csiro.au/en)
  • [University of Technology Sydney's website](https://www.uts.edu.au/)
  • [Microsoft's Startup Hub website](https://www.microsoft.com/en-au/startup)
  • [MassRobotics website](https://www.massrobotics.org/)

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