HEBI Robotics gets SBIR grant to develop hardware for hazardous environments - The Robot Report

HEBI Robotics, a Pittsburgh-based company specializing in modular robotic systems, has received a $250,000 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the U.S. Army to develop hardware capable of operating safely in hazardous environments containing flammable vapors or fluids. The company aims to create modular building blocks that simplify and reduce the cost of producing robots certified to meet NEC Class I, Division 1 safety standards, which are required for workspaces with explosive or volatile materials. This development will enable robots to perform critical military and industrial tasks such as handling energetics, fuel-tank inspection, and repair, thereby enhancing safety by reducing human exposure to dangerous conditions. HEBI Robotics’ modular approach, described as “Lego-like,” allows for rapid and reliable customization of robots for various challenging environments, including wet, dirty, and underwater settings. The company’s platform is already used in diverse industries and has earned recognition such as the 2025 RBR50 Robotics Innovation Award. The SBIR-funded project marks a significant step toward creating rugged, certified robotic hardware for hazardous environments, with collaboration planned alongside military stakeholders to ensure compliance and performance. This Phase I award could lead to further funding and full-scale production if successful, supporting the U.S. government’s goal to foster innovation and commercialization through small business research initiatives.