Research Summary
Brad Porter, former Amazon Robotics leader, is developing a company called Collaborative Robotics (Cobot). Cobot aims to design robots that can work alongside humans in various environments, such as warehouses, stadiums, and hospitals. The company is also launching a consulting service, the Flywheel Program, to help customers define their automation and robotics strategy.
Key Takeaways
Brad Porter’s Journey to Cobot
- Brad Porter’s Background: Brad Porter, who led a large robotics organization at Amazon, has a deep interest in robotics and computer science. He has worked in various roles and companies, always focusing on solving significant problems.
- Transition to Cobot: After three successful years at Amazon Robotics and a stint as CTO at ScaleAI, Porter decided to return to the startup world. He is now building his own company, Collaborative Robotics (Cobot).
- Role at Cobot: At Cobot, Porter and his team are designing robots that can work alongside humans in various environments, adapting and reacting to human behavior.
Cobot’s Vision and Strategy
- Addressing Labor Shortages: Cobot aims to address the increasing difficulty in finding laborers and material movers due to an aging population and labor shortages. The rise of e-commerce has increased the demand for these workers.
- Automation Potential: Cobot sees automation as a solution to this labor gap, allowing employees to focus on less physically demanding work. Their robots are designed to move boxes, totes, and carts in various environments.
- Flywheel Program: In addition to building robots, Cobot is launching the Flywheel Program, a consulting service that helps customers define their automation and robotics strategy and navigate the transition smoothly.
Partnership with Sequoia
- Series A Funding: Sequoia has partnered with Cobot and led its Series A funding round. They are excited to support Cobot as it grows.
- Brad Porter’s Expertise: Sequoia recognizes Porter’s deep technical expertise and his history of success in both hardware and software across every stage.
- Future Vision: Sequoia is enthusiastic about Cobot’s vision for seamless, adaptable technology and a smarter, more sustainable future.
Actionable Insights
- Investigate the Potential of Cobot: Given the increasing demand for labor in the e-commerce sector and the potential of automation to fill this gap, Cobot’s approach to designing adaptable robots could be a game-changer.
- Consider the Flywheel Program: Companies looking to define their automation and robotics strategy could benefit from Cobot’s Flywheel Program, a consulting service designed to help navigate the transition to automation smoothly.
- Monitor Cobot’s Growth: With the backing of Sequoia and the leadership of Brad Porter, Cobot is poised for growth. Keeping an eye on its development could provide insights into the future of automation and robotics.
