Boston Dynamics Shows Off Logistics Version of Handle Robot

Boston Dynamics never fails to amaze, bewilder and sometimes frighten robotics fans across the internet whenever they release a new video on YouTube. What’s interesting about this latest release is that it actually shows a machine purpose-built for industrial work, while previous projects have seemed to be aimed at the military and commercial sectors. The company’s 2017 acquisition by SoftBank has seemingly spurred more application-focused projects.
First, what looks like a four-axis arm has been added to the top of the robot, equipped with a suction cup gripper. While some pneumatic grippers such as the OnRobot VG10 have compressors built in, eliminating the need for airlines, it isn’t clear whether this type of tool is used on Handle. The arm is also equipped with a force sensor, which is used to place each box securely against its neighbors. A vision system is also in use, which allows the robot to navigate and identify SKU codes on each bin.

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Comfort Systems USA Announces Acquisition

Business Wire | February 01, 2024

Comfort Systems USA, Inc. today announced that it has closed its previously announced transaction to acquire Summit Industrial Construction, LLC (“Summit”) headquartered in Houston, Texas. As previously disclosed, Summit is a specialty industrial mechanical contractor offering engineering, design-assist and turnkey, direct hire construction services of modular systems serving the advanced technology, power, and industrial sectors. Summit’s capabilities encompass a wide range of modular and site-based construction, including process piping, equipment setting, large pipe rack trestles, and related steel erection and specialty concrete work. Summit is a trusted supplier to some of the world’s largest advanced technology, power and industrial companies and is currently deployed on several major chip fabrication projects. Initially, Summit is expected to contribute annualized revenues of approximately $375 million to $400 million, and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization of $35 million to $40 million. In light of the amortization expense, Summit is expected to make a neutral to slightly accretive contribution to earnings per share in 2024 and 2025. Brian Lane, Comfort Systems USA’s Chief Executive Officer, commented, “We are delighted to announce the closing of our agreement to acquire Summit, an extremely capable provider of modular and other complex mechanical services. Summit brings a stellar reputation as a modular technology leader in growing end markets, including multiple ongoing and large semiconductor projects. We are happy to welcome Summit’s wonderful leadership team and excellent production and craft workers across many states, and we are confident Summit will continue to innovate and grow as a part of our network of world-class contracting companies. We are grateful that Summit has chosen to become part of Comfort Systems USA.”

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