Sesto Robotics

SESTO Robotics, a spin-off from the Singapore-based engineering firm HOPE Technik, was established as an independent company in 2018. Initially developed as a sub-unit within HOPE Technik, which was founded in 2006, the Sesto line of autonomous robots was created to meet the demand for moving heavy objects in confined spaces, particularly in the logistics and semiconductor sectors. The decision to spin off into a separate entity was driven by a strategy to attract focused investment and pursue a clear product and market strategy as a deep-tech startup.

The company engineers and manufactures Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) designed to automate material handling and delivery processes. Its business model centers on selling these hardware solutions, which are powered by a proprietary, in-house developed operating system and fleet management software. SESTO Robotics serves a global clientele across various industries, including semiconductor manufacturing, healthcare, and general manufacturing. For example, the company collaborated with Infineon Technologies to automate materials transportation in their semiconductor production environment. Revenue is generated through the sale of its robotic systems and providing end-to-end solutions tailored to specific client operations.

SESTO Robotics offers a range of AMRs with distinct capabilities. The SESTO Magnus is a compact, bi-directional AMR capable of carrying payloads up to 300kg, designed for facilities with limited space. For the semiconductor industry, the SESTO Prime features a 7-axis robotic arm to handle Front Opening Unified Pods (FOUPs). The company also offers the SESTO HealthGUARD, an autonomous mobile disinfectant robot that utilizes a multi-nozzle sprayer and UV-C light for surface hygiene in healthcare and commercial facilities. A key selling point is the seamless integration of its AMRs with existing infrastructure like doors, lifts, and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), which facilitates adoption and enhances operational efficiency. Their fleet management software, SESTO Smartflow, allows operators to optimize robot performance by planning paths, deconflicting routes, and allocating tasks.

Since its official incorporation in January 2017, the company has secured significant funding to fuel its growth and international expansion. It raised $4 million in a Series A round in 2018 from investors including Singtel Innov8 and Heliconia Capital Management. This was followed by a Series A+ round in January 2022, securing $5.7 million from investors such as TRIVE, World Trading Innovation (WTI), and SEEDS Capital, bringing its total funding to over $10 million. These funds are earmarked for expanding into the European market, enhancing digital marketing, and continuing the development of its AMR capabilities. The company is led by CEO Ang Chor Chen.

Keywords: autonomous mobile robots, AMR, automated guided vehicles, AGV, intralogistics, material handling automation, Industry 4.0, semiconductor manufacturing automation, healthcare robotics, fleet management software, SESTO Magnus, warehouse automation, robotics solutions, factory automation, Singapore robotics, automated disinfection, mobile manipulator, smart factory, logistics automation, manufacturing robotics, SESTO Prime