Back in February MANSUS took a trip to CodeNode for the Hexagon Sixth Sense final since then we have been curious about the finalists experience in the program and their plans for the future. We spoke with Tyler Bouchard, CEO & Co-founder of Flexxbotics after his impressive pitch and success as finalists of the third Sixth Sense cohort here’s what he had to say.
Tell us how the Sixth Sense programme helped shape your plans for the future at Flexxbotics?
“Our collaboration with Hexagon in the Sixth Sense program provided Flexxbotics with the ability to work with and learn from the industry leader in smart factory solutions and coordinate measuring machine technology.
We believe that the integration of our Flexxbotics solution with Hexagon’s cutting-edge inspection equipment has the potential to set a new standard in closed-loop autonomous process control which is a critical prerequisite to achieving autonomous industry. Together we will further accelerate the adoption of robot-driven manufacturing,”
“What is your advice for start ups and scale ups who want to follow your footsteps and apply for the next cohort?”
“For companies thinking about applying for the next cohort, my advice is to ensure that your vision aligns with the program’s ethos, and to craft a narrative around how your innovation addresses real-world challenges.
It was clear to us at Flexxbotics from the start how well matched our vision for the future of autonomous manufacturing in the smart factory is with Hexagon, which not only ensured a successful collaboration during the program but has built the foundations for a long-term partnership,”
What did you enjoy most about working with Hexagon Sixth Sense?
Collaborating with the Hexagon technical and commercial teams to develop a joint solution for robot-driven manufacturing with closed-loop autonomous process control.
We understand that many robotic digitalization initiatives breakdown in the manufacturing workcell because the robots are not connected and cannot communicate with the machines and inspection equipment due to interfacing complexity and incompatibilities. This lack of robot integration into the product process results in limited efficiency gains, unexpected quality issues, and unplanned downtime.
Our breakthrough FlexxCORE innovation in the Flexxbotics solution creates universal connectivity and interoperability between robots and machines. It makes robots compatible with over 1000 different models of CNC machines, other factory machinery and inspection equipment so everything works seamlessly and securely.
Then, our full Flexxbotics SaaS/hybrid solution enables the robots to focus on the production workflow using the results from automated inspections with Hexagon equipment to make real-time adjustments to the processing instructions in the machines’ programs for autonomous process control which is quite unique in the market.
Do you think the process is designed to support innovation and how?
Absolutely. The Sixth Sense Program supports innovation by encouraging open collaboration and partnership between the Hexagon team and the companies in the program. Hexagon provides detailed insights into their solutions and the needs of their customers, which means that innovation is focused on real-world applicability from the start. Access is also provided to the right people, resources and advanced tools to support the development of the solution.
What is next for your company?
Our goal for Flexxbotics is to become the global leader in SaaS/Hybrid solutions for robot-driven manufacturing. We envision our solutions setting the standard for intelligent robotics in manufacturing with Flexxbotics being integral to factories worldwide, driving new levels of efficiency, quality and sustainability.
Flexxbotics robotic workcell digitalization is the backbone of the Smart Factory delivering autonomous process control for next generation machining environments. Flexxbotics SaaS/hybrid solutions enable robot-driven manufacturing at scale. Flexxbotics breakthrough, the FlexxCORE™ technology, seamlessly connects and coordinates robots with existing automation equipment, IT systems and people. More powerful, flexible and open, Flexxbotics revolutionizes the use of robotics in complex production. Visit www.flexxbotics.com to learn more and follow us on LinkedIn.
