Waypoint launches wireless charging for mobile robots

Waypoint (Booth C2549) launched EnZone, a wireless power system for autonomous mobile robots, at a Monday press conference.

EnZone’s high power wireless charging docks provide “opportunity charging” for mobile robots, which allows them to operate for longer time periods since they can charge while paused. The software-defined power system is easy to use because it allows the intelligence in the robot to do the dock set up, rather than requiring special knowledge from users, said Jason Walker, Waypoint’s CEO.

“EnZone supports our focus on ease of use,” Walker said. “It makes charging locations exceptionally easy to set up, wherever you need them. It also enables on-demand power for payloads such as robotic arms.”

The on-demand power lessens the need for batteries on robots because attachments like picking arms could draw power wirelessly from an EnZone dock at the point of activity, rather than lugging extra batteries. Waypoint partnered with WiBotic (Booth C2548) for the wireless-charging technology.

Modex 2018 is scheduled to be held April 9-12 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. The tradeshow will showcase the latest manufacturing, distribution and supply chain solutions in the materials handling and logistics industry. Modern’s complete coverage of the show.