Ten years ago, Bot & Dolly joined Google's robotics acquisition spree, but the real breakthrough in robotics lies in software, not hardware. Formant, founded by Bot & Dolly's co-founder Jeff Linnell, is revolutionizing the industry with its data collection and assessment platform. In this article, we delve into the insights gained from Linnell's experience and explore Formant's recent $21 million funding round led by BMW i Ventures. Join us as we uncover the potential of Formant's platform and its impact on the robotics landscape.
The Importance of Software in Robotics
Discover why software is the key to unlocking the full potential of robotics.
While hardware may be the face of robotics, it is the software that truly drives innovation. Jeff Linnell, co-founder of Bot & Dolly and founder of Formant, emphasizes the significance of software in the industry. He states that during his time at Google and Alphabet X, he realized that hardware is not the problem; it's software that holds the key to advancements in robotics.
Formant's data collection and assessment platform is a prime example of harnessing the power of software. By leveraging the vast amounts of data collected by on-board sensors, Formant enables humans to manage field-deployed assets effectively. This software-driven approach allows for scalability and opens up countless possibilities for automation.
Formant's Data Collection and Assessment Platform
Explore how Formant's platform revolutionizes the way data is collected and assessed in the robotics industry.
Formant's platform serves as a centralized hub for collecting and analyzing data from various robotic systems. Whether it's flying robots, underwater robots, or delivery robots, Formant's hardware-agnostic approach makes it compatible with a wide range of robotic applications.
By providing a user-friendly interface and powerful analytics tools, Formant empowers businesses to make data-driven decisions. The platform allows for real-time monitoring, remote control, and even autonomous operations. With Formant, companies can optimize their robotic assets and drive efficiency in their operations.
Formant's Success in Underserved Sectors
Discover how Formant has made an impact in underserved sectors like agriculture and security robotics.
Formant initially focused on sectors that were relatively underserved, such as agriculture and security robotics. By providing a comprehensive data collection and assessment platform, Formant has helped companies like Blue River, a John Deere-owned company, and Knightscope, a security robotics firm, optimize their operations.
For example, in agriculture, Formant's platform enables farmers to monitor crop health, automate irrigation systems, and improve overall productivity. In the security sector, Formant's platform enhances surveillance capabilities, enabling more efficient patrolling and threat detection.
Formant's Funding Round and Future Prospects
Learn about Formant's recent $21 million funding round and its potential impact on the robotics industry.
Formant's recent funding round, led by BMW i Ventures and featuring prominent investors like Intel Capital, signals the industry's recognition of the platform's potential. With this new capital infusion, Formant aims to accelerate its go-to-market strategy and expand its reach in the robotics industry.
The funding will enable Formant to further enhance its platform, develop new features, and explore partnerships with key players in the robotics ecosystem. As the demand for advanced data collection and assessment solutions continues to grow, Formant is well-positioned to lead the way in shaping the future of robotics.
Conclusion
Formant's data collection and assessment platform is revolutionizing the robotics industry by harnessing the power of software. By focusing on software rather than hardware, Formant enables businesses to optimize their field-deployed assets at scale. With its recent $21 million funding round and partnerships with industry leaders, Formant is poised to shape the future of robotics and drive innovation in various sectors.
FQA :
What makes Formant's platform unique?
Formant's platform stands out for its hardware-agnostic approach, allowing compatibility with a wide range of robotic systems. Additionally, its user-friendly interface and powerful analytics tools empower businesses to make data-driven decisions and optimize their operations.
Which sectors has Formant made an impact on?
Formant has made significant contributions in underserved sectors such as agriculture and security robotics. Its platform has helped farmers monitor crop health and automate irrigation systems, while also enhancing surveillance capabilities for security firms.
What are the future prospects for Formant?
With its recent funding round and partnerships, Formant is well-positioned to expand its reach in the robotics industry. The company aims to further enhance its platform, develop new features, and explore collaborations with key players in the ecosystem.
