University of Cambridge spinout RoboK has secured £1 million UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) funding for a project to deliver an industry-first artificial intelligence safety and efficiency solution for UK ports and warehouses.
Cambridge-based RoboK is a computer vision startup with a mission to transform industrial sites into safe and efficient environments.
The project, named PALLETS, short for Proactive AI-powered solutions for Logistics Efficiency, Transparency and Safety, forms part of UKRI’s ‘Accelerating Trustworthy AI’ programme and will run until March 2025.
The initiative is set to help lower the barriers to AI adoption within the logistics sector by prioritising transparency, data security, and user trust, and is poised to set new benchmarks in AI-driven safety and efficiency for the UK’s logistics and transport sectors.
The project also brings together unique expertise from key partners: Astron Fire & Security, Freeport East, Port of Dover, The Finishing Line, The University of Essex, and The Bristol Port Company.
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Together, the consortium is said to be seeking to tackle significant industry challenges including hazard detection and operational bottlenecks in a secure and trusted manner.
Hao Zheng (pictured), founder & CEO of RoboK, commented: “PALLETS aligns perfectly with RoboK’s vision to create safer and more efficient industrial workplaces.
“We are honoured to collaborate with key industry partners on a project of such strategic importance to the UK economy.”
Steve Beel, CEO of Freeport East added: “Freeport East is delighted to be involved in PALLETS.
“This demonstrates our role acting as a convenor, making linkages to progress innovative applications and technologies in the ports and logistics sector.”
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