Jim Rock

AGV maker Seegrid has acquired Box Robotics, a mobile robotics start-up bringing high-definition maps, three-dimensional LiDAR and deep learning to the warehouse and manufacturing automation space. This acquisition will help accelerate next-generation perception and more human-like, situational awareness technology to Seegrid's vision guided vehicles, making manufacturing, distribution and e-commerce fulfilment facilities even more productive as the demand for automation increases during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Financial terms were not disclosed.

The Philadelphia-based Box Robotics, led by the former Love Park Robotics principals Tom Panzarella and John Spletzer, focuses on 3D perception autonomy with human-like situational awareness for industrial robots.

This acquisition will accelerate the deployment of even more advanced functionality for Seegrid's vehicles.

"Seegrid and Box Robotics are perfectly aligned in our mission to bring full 3D situational awareness and predictability to our next-generation robots," says Seegrid CEO Jim Rock. "Tom and John are visionary leaders and experienced computer vision and robotics developers who uniquely and deeply understand the issues facing materials handling automation.

"This strategic acquisition gives both Seegrid and our customers a competitive advantage by continuing to provide increased productivity and uncompromised safety, as well as accelerates the advancement of technologies needed to support today's incredible demand for automation."

The acquisition comes on the heels of Seegrid closing a USD52 million growth equity financing round last month, bringing the company's total funding to more than USD150 million. Seegrid intends to use the additional capital to accelerate new product development and increase the size of its workforce as it continues to deliver best-in-class automation solutions for its customers.