Sonair built its 3D ultrasonic sensor with robotic safety in mind

Sonair, an Oslo-based company, has developed a 3D ultrasonic sensor using acoustic detection and ranging (ADAR) technology to enhance robotic safety as robots increasingly operate in human environments. Unlike traditional sensors such as cameras and LIDAR, Sonair’s sensor emits high-frequency ultrasound waves that fill a space with sound, providing robots with a comprehensive three-dimensional perception of their surroundings. This sonar-based approach addresses limitations in depth perception and object detection under varying conditions, complementing existing robotic sensors and improving environmental awareness. Since its release earlier this year, Sonair’s sensor has attracted strong interest from robotics manufacturers and the industrial safety sector, where it is used to detect human presence near heavy machinery to prevent accidents. The company recently raised $6 million from investors including Scale Capital, Investinor, and ProVenture to scale adoption of its technology. Sonair’s CEO Knut Sandven envisions the sensor becoming as ubiquitous in robots as cameras are today, emphasizing the growing importance of safety as robots