In order to augment and support the advancement of the Apollo robots, two US firms have announced a collaboration. These companies are Apptronik, a firm focused on AI-powered humanoid robotics, and Jabil, a business specialized in engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain solutions (EMS). This partnership between the two companies is an example of a pilot program, which is a short-term commitment that helps an organization learn how a large-scale project might work in practice. In this case, the pilot program will allow for Apollo robots to engage in real-world validation testing at Jabil factory setups and mass production, which can lead to adoption in the outside world.
In the process of real-world validation testing, a number of Apollo systems will perform various simple manufacturing tasks before being shipped to Apptronik customer sites. This will better prepare Apollo for many technological improvements, including the ability to self-replicate. In theory, the better Apollo performs in these repetitive assignments, the closer Apptronik and Jabil will be to Apollo making itself on the assembly line.
This cooperation will also present the two US firms as manufacturing partners. In this process, Jabil will be able to produce the Apollo robot in its own factories, once Apollo is commercially viable. If the partnership goes smoothly, then Apptronik’s Apollo systems will be able to manufacture themselves. However, this possibility is still a great deal away. The robotics company has told TechCrunch, an online publisher of news related to technology, that these commercial units will likely begin to be manufactured in 2026.
The prospect of the Apollo having self-replicating technology also has many advantages. For instance, integrating Apollos into creating themselves will effectively support the existing workforce at Jabil manufacturing sites. Additionally, there are many societal benefits. If production of Apollo systems is increased by self-replication, then it will be much easier to adopt the technology in the modern world.
According to Rafael Renno, Jabil SVP of global business units, Jabil “has been committed to advanced automation and robotics across our operations, so piloting Apollo is a logical next step for our division and for Jabil in the long term.” This quote highlights the beneficial collaboration between Apptronik and Jabil, and the potential the Apollo and its possible self-replication has. In all, the development of self-replicating robotic systems is a massive advancement for the field of engineering and will likely test the limits of technology.
Related Stories:
https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/apptronik-jabilo-apollo-humanoid-robot
https://therobotreport.com/apptronik-collaborates-with-jabil-to-produce-apollo-humanoid-robots/
https://www.robotics247.com/article/apptronik-jabil-to-build-apollo-humanoid-robot-with-apollo
https://drivesncontrols.com/deal-means-that-humanoid-robots-could-build-themselves/
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