Trimble, partner team on autonomous robots

Trimble and Boston Dynamics formed a strategic alliance to integrate a variety of construction data collection technologies with Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot platform.

The jointly developed solution will combine the Spot robot’s autonomous mobility with Trimble’s data collection sensors and field control software to enable automation of repetitive tasks such as site scans, surveying and progress monitoring, while taking advantage of the robot’s capabilities to navigate dynamic and potentially unsafe environments.

According to Trimble, the relationship gives it exclusivity to sell and support the Spot robot with integrated scanning, total station and GNSS technologies for the construction market.

“Robots will play a crucial role in automated construction workflows and can augment the human workforce by handling dirty, dull and dangerous tasks,” says Martin Holmgren, general manager of building field solutions at Trimble.

The integrated solution is expected to be available by the second quarter of 2021 through Boston Dynamics, Trimble and select BuildingPoint and Sitech distribution partners in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand and Japan.