U.S.-UK robotics company Launchpad has secured $11 million in funding to advance its AI-driven assembly automation technology.
The company, headquartered in Los Angeles with an R&D facility in Edinburgh, Scotland, will use the funds to meet rising demand in the U.S., U.K., and Europe.
Founded in 2020, Launchpad aims to “re-imagine” manufacturing and boost local economies.
Its technology integrates AI with robotics to help firms combine human and robot labour efficiently.
The company claims its solutions can halve both time and costs for automation projects.
Traditional automation systems remain expensive, limiting adoption for small- and medium-sized manufacturers.
“Launchpad has built a technology that is helping manufacturers manage the optimal integration of humans and robots,” CEO Jon Quick said.
“We see AI tools, such as those being pioneered by Launchpad, as reimagining the manufacturing industry and revitalising local economies.”
Launchpad’s main technologies include Digitool, a self-programming robotic system.
Digitool uses real-time computer vision to handle part and process variations, enabling precise assembly across multiple product lines.
The second technology, Digisolv AI, automates the transition from CAD files to production, optimising component classification and assembly sequences while balancing cost, materials, and environmental impact.
These systems are already operational in factories across the U.S. and Europe.
Funding round participants include Ericsson Ventures, Lockheed Martin Ventures, and the Scottish National Investment Bank.
The investment builds on a £2 million grant from Scottish Enterprise awarded last year to establish the Edinburgh R&D hub, which now employs around 24 people.
“With its R&D centre in Edinburgh, Launchpad is able to draw on Scotland’s long-standing academic, technical and entrepreneurial strengths,” Scottish Enterprise CEO Adrian Gillespie said.
“The company has quickly become an influential part of the Scottish innovation community, and we look forward to supporting its next growth phase.”
Launchpad’s expansion reflects a growing trend of AI and robotics reshaping manufacturing processes globally.
