Path Robotics, an industrial automation startup, raises $300 million in funding

Path Robotics Inc., a startup that today focuses on automating industrial welding processes announced that it has raised $300 million in funding.

Georgian led the Serie E round. The company was joined by a consortium that included the venture capital arms of Yamaha Motor Co. and Navier Corp. one of the largest technology companies in South Korea. The investment gives Path Robotics a post-money valuation of $2.45 billion.

Welding tasks have historically been difficult to automate due to a phenomenon called heat-induced metal deformation. It occurs when the heat generated by a welding torch deforms the metal parts being joined. In addition, the parts change shape again when they cool down. These deformations are often unpredictable, meaning they can upset a robotic arm that follows a static, pre-programmed welding schedule.

There are other causes of complexity too. Mass-produced metal parts based on the same blueprint often differ slightly due to manufacturing inconsistencies. In many cases, these deviations require adjustments to the way welding is done. This is not always possible with traditional automation software.

Path Robotics has developed an AI model that addresses these challenges. Obsidian, as it is called, was specifically designed to power industrial robots equipped with welding torches. The company says the model can observe how metal parts change shape during the welding process and adjust its workflow accordingly. In addition, unexpected part variations are automatically taken into account.

Obsidian monitors the welding process using four lasers attached to the torch it controls. The spotlights illuminate the parts to be welded together and the reflected light is captured by two cameras. According to Path Robotics, Obsidian collects data not only during the welding process, but also before and after each welding process.

The data is based on an AI model that the company calls the Welding World Model. The researchers at Path Robotics use it to create simulated welding projects. These simulations, in turn, drive Obsidian’s training workflow.

Path Robotics originally developed Obsidian for large robot workstations, so-called welding cells. In April, the company unveiled a four-legged robot called Rove that uses the model to automate shipbuilding tasks. The company says its software can also be used to make parts for vehicles, power generators, utility poles and other heavy equipment.

“We are seeing increasing demand from manufacturers who need to expand their production capacity but cannot achieve this with traditional automation,” said Andy Lonsberry, co-founder and chief executive officer of Path Robotics. “This capital allows us to scale our welding business alongside our customers while continuing to invest in the data, computing and model development required to handle all pre- and post-weld tasks.”

Photo: Path robotics