Closer proposed the "Robot Drink Bar" using our developed robotic arm and was awarded the Domestic Runner-Up Prize at the James Dyson Award 2020.

The James Dyson Foundation, which aims to support and nurture the next generation of engineers and designers, has announced the top two entries, including the Domestic Winner, from its international engineering award, the James Dyson Award (JDA). A total of 1,794 entries were received from around the world.

Closer’s proposal, the "Robot Drink Bar" utilizing our robotic arm, won the Domestic Runner-Up Prize.

Closer is developing an automated vending machine-type food and beverage service using robotic arms, with plans for a proof-of-concept experiment later this year. Details about the experiment will be published on this website and on social media.

Official Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Close.Robot
Official Twitter: https://x.com/CloserRobotics

Summary:
As labor shortages continue to rise, increasing productivity through robotics is becoming essential. Although efforts to enhance productivity with robots are ongoing, high costs remain a significant barrier to adoption. Therefore, we are developing cost-effective robotic arms optimized for sectors experiencing severe labor shortages, such as food service and agriculture. Initially focusing on automating the food service industry, we will validate automation with vending machines and consider expansion to other formats after successful validation.

Comments from JDA Domestic Judge Yoshito Ogata:
“The versatile and flexible robotic arm addresses the significant issue of cost by focusing on reducing expenses rather than enhancing functionality. The development and testing of a prototype are commendable. Balancing 'necessary functionality and quality' with 'significantly reduced costs' will be key going forward.”

Comments from JDA Domestic Judge Keita Yagi:
“I highly value the development and validation process of a functioning prototype. As the project moves towards social implementation, challenges such as optimizing QCD (Quality, Cost, Delivery), mass production, and commercial issues are anticipated. I hope that the concept of cost advantage remains strong and that the project will gain market presence.”

Upcoming Evaluation Process:
The top two domestic entries, along with other entries from various countries, will proceed to the international second round of judging. From there, the top 20 will be selected and will advance to the final international judging by James Dyson, the founder of Dyson. The results for the top 20 will be announced on October 15, and the final results on November 19. The international winner will receive a prize of £30,000 (approximately 4.2 million yen) and a donation of £5,000 (approximately 700,000 yen) to the educational institution where the winner is currently enrolled or graduated.

Source: James Dyson Foundation, September 17, 2020