Headless humanoid robot built in 40 days to work in Renault factory

Wandercraft, a Paris-based company known for its exoskeleton technology, has developed a headless humanoid robot named Calvin in just 40 days. This voice-controlled, self-balancing robot is designed to perform tough, painful, and non-ergonomic manufacturing tasks, aiming to relieve Renault Group’s workers from such duties while enhancing productivity by reducing production time. Calvin represents Wandercraft’s first industrial humanoid robot and incorporates adaptable hands capable of switching between various end effectors like suction cups and grippers, allowing it to meet diverse operational needs. Beyond industrial applications, Calvin also holds potential for medical care uses. Renault Group has made a strategic investment in Wandercraft, forming a commercial partnership to develop Calvin and future next-generation robots primarily for industrial purposes. This collaboration leverages Renault’s industrial expertise, particularly in design-to-cost and scaling, to industrialize robots and exoskeletons, thereby reducing costs and accelerating automation. Renault’s Chief Industry and Quality Officer, Thierry Charvet, emphasized that the partnership will enable workers to focus on higher-value tasks while improving overall factory productivity. Wandercraft’s CEO Matthieu Masselin highlighted the broader vision of combining robotics and exoskeleton technology to improve lives both in industrial settings and beyond, including clinics and homes.