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Launch HN: Charge Robotics (YC S21) - Robots that build solar farms

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Re: Launch HN: Charge Robotics (YC S21) - Robots that build solar farms

#81
Excellent idea! The videos are a bit underwhelming - more context would be helpful. On the other hand, I really like that you're doing actual work in the field instead of making 3d animations. I really like also that this seems to be such a small scope. You are using existing solar panels and hardware, just the assembly is automated.

I guess the biggest questions are:

1. are telehandlers precise enough for final assembly on their own without humans? 2. if you need humans too, can they safely co-operate with the robots? 3. if you need humans too, how much will this save on workforce needs in the end?

Re: Launch HN: Charge Robotics (YC S21) - Robots that build solar farms

#82

This seems to be the same age-old problem of construction automation. A system that can really deliver for solar farms could be adapted for many other construction types, at least in principle. Since the world has largely failed to automate construction, and not for lack of trying, you really have to wonder if a startup could really disrupt the field, and I say that as an automation engineer. The Construction Physics…

Cost optimized construction switched to large concrete elements in the sixties or so, so brick layers were obsoleted by that. Also a lot less concrete casting is needed.

Also bathrooms started arriving as ready made modules etc. The factories that make these, I assume they actually are quite automated?

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