German Bionic

German Bionic, established in Augsburg, Germany in 2017, is a robotics company focused on developing and manufacturing powered exoskeletons designed to enhance worker safety and productivity in physically demanding jobs. The company was founded by Armin G. Schmidt, Dr. Peter Heiligensetzer, and Martin Zimmermann, who leveraged their collective expertise in robotics, software, and industrial applications to address the high incidence of musculoskeletal disorders in sectors like logistics, construction, and healthcare. Schmidt, a serial entrepreneur who previously founded and successfully exited a streaming service (AUPEO) and an automotive IoT platform (ATS Advanced Telematic Systems), now serves as CEO. Heiligensetzer, an expert in human-robot collaboration with a decade of experience at robotics giant KUKA, acts as a key advisor.

The company's core products are smart, AI-powered exoskeletons, often referred to as power suits, that provide active support for lifting, carrying, and walking. Models like the 'Apogee' and 'Apogee+' are designed for logistics and healthcare respectively, offering up to 36-38 kg (80-84 lbs) of lifting support per movement to reduce physical strain and the risk of injury. A key feature is the integration of a cloud-based software platform, German Bionic IO. This platform gathers and analyzes real-time biomechanical data from the connected devices, providing companies with actionable insights to optimize workplace ergonomics and safety protocols. The technology is built to learn and improve with every use through AI and receives regular over-the-air updates.

German Bionic operates on a Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) leasing model, making its technology accessible to a range of businesses. This subscription-based approach has attracted a diverse client base, including major logistics firms like DPD, Dachser, and GXO, large retailers such as Canadian Tire and Currys, international airports, and healthcare institutions like Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin. The firm has secured significant funding to fuel its growth, raising approximately $39.8M over four rounds, including a notable Series A round led by Mubea, a major German automotive supplier and strategic partner. Other prominent investors include Samsung Catalyst Fund, Join Capital, and the European Investment Bank. This financial backing is aimed at scaling production and expanding its market presence across Europe, North America, and Asia to meet the growing global demand for occupational safety solutions.

Keywords: exoskeleton technology, wearable robotics, occupational safety, human augmentation, industrial exoskeletons, logistics technology, healthcare robotics, smart power suits, Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS), workplace ergonomics, injury prevention, AI-powered wearables, connected worker, Industry 4.0, biomechanics, data analytics, lifting support device, supply chain technology, advanced manufacturing, worker safety solutions