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RE2 Robotics releases the new RE2 Sapien manipulator arm | Image Credit: RE2 Robotics

Pittsburgh-based RE2 Robotics, (RE-squared) unveiled its new robotic arm brand: RE2 Sapien. RE2 Sapien systems feature intelligent robotic arms with intuitive human-robot control interfaces and outdoor (including underwater) computer vision and autonomy capabilities. The company has been developing tele-operated and robotic-assisted manipulation solutions since 2001. 

The RE2 Sapien brand reaffirms the company’s commitment to developing human-like robotic arm solutions that improve operational efficiencies, worker safety, and overall productivity. RE2 Sapien systems feature intelligent robotic arms with intuitive human-robot control interfaces and outdoor (including underwater) computer vision and autonomy capabilities.

Originally engineered for the rugged requirements of the U.S. military, the RE2 robotic arms have evolved into a family of systems called RE2 Sapien. RE2 Sapien arms provide human-like capabilities beyond traditional industrial arms and cooperative robots. They can operate in both structured and unstructured environments, including outdoors in harsh weather and in constrained indoor settings like operating rooms. The arms feature high strength-to-weight ratios, precise control, and dexterity that matches or exceeds the performance of human arms.

“The core robotic technology within the RE2 Sapien arms was originally developed by our team for the U.S. military, and we have built on that expertise to deliver commercial solutions in the aviation, construction, energy, and medical markets.  Additionally, our Maritime Dexterous Manipulation System (MDMS), developed for U.S. Navy applications, will now be productized commercially as RE2 Sapienᵀ Sea Class arms,” said David Lee, director of product management for RE2 Robotics.

The RE2 Sapien arm can operate in a variety of applications. | Image Credit: RE2 Robotics

RE2 Sapien arms can operate in both structured and unstructured environments, including in constrained indoor settings like operating rooms and outdoors in harsh weather. The arms feature high strength-to-weight ratios, precise control, and dexterity that matches or exceeds the performance of human arms.

“Our goal is not to replace human workers, but to enhance the work experience through a lens of humanity using robotic tools that will improve worker safety, efficiency, productivity, and longevity,” said Jorgen Pedersen, president and CEO. “Our new RE2 Sapien intelligent robotic arms have been designed and built to be cost-effective solutions for the operational and technical needs of our customers. Whether maneuvering solar panels at height above a construction site or inspecting pipes far below the surface of the ocean, our RE2 Sapien arms serve as an extension of a human operator or perform tasks autonomously with human supervision from a safe location.”

RE2 Robotics’ mission since its founding in 2001 has been to develop technology that empowers humans to do their jobs safely and efficiently. The introduction of the RE2 Sapien brand of robotic arms is an exciting new chapter in the 20-year history of RE2.

“As the future of work evolves, so must the technology that enables humans to safely perform challenging tasks. I am excited about this new brand launch and the evolution of RE2’s technology,” said Pedersen.

Takeaways

RE2 Robotics is innovating in the market space between autonomous robotic arms and tele-operated arms. Their solutions are a hybrid of both worlds. RE2 develops solutions for the most rugged and demanding applications including extreme environments where it is difficult or dangerous for humans to go. In this way, they keep human operators safe. RE2 Sapien is the latest product line for RE2 Robotics and formalizes this generation of products. Expect to see RE2 Sapien arms deployed onto other mobile platforms that will handle the positioning of the RE2 Sapien manipulators for remote operation tasks.