Cobot's Proxie Gen 2 Revolutionizes Automation

Cobot, a leading innovator in collaborative robotics, has unveiled the second-generation version of its Proxie mobile robot. The Proxie Gen 2 boasts an array of cutting-edge features, including greater payload capacity, self-swapping batteries, autonomous task identification, and a new two-armed manipulation option. This latest iteration is poised to revolutionize deployments across healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing.

The Proxie Gen 2 was introduced at Automate 2026, where it was positioned as a production-proven mobile manipulator. According to Cobot founder and CEO Brad Porter, the system brings together mobility and dexterity in one platform, designed end-to-end. This marks a significant departure from traditional robotics, where companies had to choose between mobility and dexterity, and often required custom software integration.

Cobot has spent the past two years gathering operational data from customer deployments, with 28 Proxie robots accumulating nearly 13,000 operating hours. The robots have been deployed in environments ranging from hospitals and laboratories to manufacturing and logistics facilities, including a notable deployment at the Mayo Clinic. The experience generated over 500 design insights that informed the redesign of nearly every subsystem in Gen 2.

The Proxie Gen 2 features a range of improvements, including a 40% reduction in parts, a smaller footprint, and greater strength. It can move carts weighing up to 1,500 lb and lift up to 220 lb on its vertical spine. The company has also upgraded the sensing package with additional lidar capabilities, designed to support future safety certification efforts.

One of the most significant advancements in the Proxie Gen 2 is its ability to identify work on its own, using a capability called "autotasking." Rather than relying on integrations with warehouse management systems or human dispatchers, Proxie builds a real-time world model of its environment. It can determine when materials are ready to move, identify destinations, and create tasks without human intervention.

The implications of this technology are far-reaching, with the potential to transform industries and revolutionize workflow transformation. As companies continue to adopt automation and AI-driven solutions, the Proxie Gen 2 is poised to play a leading role in this transformation.

In conclusion, the Proxie Gen 2 represents a significant leap forward in collaborative robotics, with its autonomous tasking, mobile manipulation, and improved design. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how this technology is adopted and integrated into various sectors.