Robotics: Startup ConBotics Supports Painting Companies with Painter Robots

An employee who works swiftly and reliably without even needing a lunch break? That’s precisely what startup ConBotics makes possible for painting companies. A painter robot is set to assist these businesses in their work. Equipped with a spray arm and powered by AI, it can detect walls, windows, and doors. Companies save approximately 50 percent compared to the costs of a regular employee. In an interview, ConBotics founder Cristian Amaya Gómez provides insights into an initial cooperation project with a painting company.

Cristian, the robots from FigureAI are currently omnipresent in the media. How should we imagine your painter robot?

Definitely not humanoid. Our robot is more akin to a vacuum cleaner robot that recognizes and interacts with its surroundings. We have a mobile platform and a robot arm that we developed ourselves. Attached to it is a so-called ‘airless machine’ – a type of spray gun that allows us to efficiently apply paint to large surfaces.

What sets your robot apart from competing products in the painting industry?

The operation is very simple. The painter doesn’t need to become a technician, as is the case with other products. Additionally, our robot is modular. This means it can be easily disassembled. The heaviest part is the mobile platform, weighing about 60 kilograms. That’s significantly lighter than anything else our competitors offer. Two people can easily carry the robot upstairs to floors inaccessible by elevator. Overall, the robot is exceptionally light at 130 kilograms. Comparable devices weigh over half a ton.

How much can the robot accomplish in a day?

Approximately 500 square meters, similar to what an employee using spray technology can achieve. The difference is that the robot has no needs and doesn’t require a salary.

Can the robot be purchased already?

Not at the moment. We just made our market debut at the international paint trade fair, FAF Fair, in Cologne at the end of April 2024. Since then, our robot can be rented. Starting from 2025, we aim to offer it for sale as well. Inquiries from companies interested in partnering with us are definitely welcome.

You’ve already successfully completed a first cooperation project.

Yes, we had the opportunity to participate in a construction project with Strasser Company in Kassel. The company has a keen interest in digitalization topics and was open to our development. We found a painting company nearby willing to collaborate with us and who hadn’t encountered our robot before. Initially, there was some skepticism. However, we were able to convince the master painter of our development because he saw that he could make faster progress with a robot handling part of the work.

Are reservations about using robots your biggest challenge?

Definitely. The construction industry is very traditional. Craftsmen often prefer working with their hands. Additionally, many fear that robots might one day completely replace humans. But that’s not the point. The painter is still necessary on the construction site. However, he can, for example, prepare one room while the robot sprays in another, making operations more efficient. Therefore, a certain level of perseverance is definitely a characteristic that startups need in the construction industry.

What are your plans for the future?

Because our system is modular, we can further develop it for other trades as well. Together with our partner Triflex, we are working on a solution for floor coatings. But activities like sanding, applying plaster, or putty are also conceivable. And there are indeed some companies open to this. They will be rewarded because, in the long term, they will stay one step ahead of their competitors through robotics.

Contact

Website: www.conbotics.com

LinkedIn: Cristian Amaya Gómez