Japan’s DIC Backs Mantis Robotics With Undisclosed Funding
aiinsider ·
Japanese chemical company DIC Corp. has made a strategic investment in California-based Mantis Robotics, marking the first deal for its $62 million DIC D2S Ventures fund. The investment amount remains undisclosed as DIC expands into the physical AI sector through this partnership. Mantis specializes in developing fenceless industrial robots, such as its flagship MR-1 model, which recently received safety certification for human-robot collaboration. The two companies plan to collaborate on tactile sensing systems, robotic fingers, and lightweight advanced components by combining their respective technologies. DIC will contribute high-performance materials and sensing capabilities, while Mantis provides robotics expertise and 3D spatial sensing. This move aligns with DIC's strategy to view physical AI as a key growth area for future startup investments. Mantis Robotics, founded in 2020, is currently expanding its commercial activities across logistics, electronics, and automotive manufacturing.
aiinsider