Kane Robotics
About
About Kane Robotics
The GRIT range packages a collaborative arm, process tooling and application software into reconfigurable finishing systems. Kane Robotics adapts robot paths and sanding or grinding parameters to the customer's materials and workpieces, with optional sensing and production-data functions. GRIT ST is intended for smaller parts, GRIT XL for larger workpieces, and GRIT W for woodworking.
Kane was founded in 2019 and sells systems for high-mix, low-volume production where abrasive surface work is repetitive or hazardous. Its team draws on aerospace and composites manufacturing experience. The company works directly with manufacturers on application selection and configuration from its Austin, Texas contact office.
Team
- John Spruce - CEO and Board Director - He founded Kane Robotics and leads development and commercialisation of the GRIT finishing systems.
- Glenn Renner - Executive Chairman and Board Director - He helps Kane Robotics scale its collaborative-robotics business as executive chairman and a board director.
- Alan Hiken - Chief Operating Officer - He leads operations for Kane Robotics and applies composites-manufacturing expertise to robotic sanding, grinding and finishing systems.
Timeline
Events
- 2024-05-01 - Org Change - Kane Robotics relocates headquarters to Austin
Robotics 24/7 identified Kane as Chino, California-based when it reported the GRIT launch in April 2023. Kane's current contact page lists 1909 W. Braker Lane, Suite 400, Austin, Texas 78758.
Source - 2024-01-11 - Capability - Kane Robotics adds GRIT Vision System for weld grinding
The GRIT Vision System combines computer vision with the collaborative finishing system to follow weld seams. Kane described sanding, grinding and polishing as supported material-removal workflows. The system was developed in part around Paul Mueller Company's need to grind welds on large stainless-steel tanks while reducing worker fatigue.
Source - 2023-05-22 - Demonstration - Kane Robotics demonstrates GRIT-ST with ATI, Universal Robots and 3M
The configuration combined GRIT-ST, an ATI CGV-900 compliant angle grinder, a Universal Robots UR10e and 3M Cubitron II abrasive media. ATI's adjustable compliance allowed the grinder to follow surface irregularities while sensing data supported process validation. The combined cell targeted sanding, grinding and finishing work across manufacturing sectors from aerospace to construction.
Source - 2023-04-13 - Product Launch - Kane Robotics launches GRIT collaborative finishing systems
GRIT was introduced as Kane's first collaborative robotic system for composites sanding. The launch targeted aerospace maintenance, repair and overhaul work as an initial operating market. Kane positioned the system around repetitive material-removal work and reducing operator exposure to abrasive-process hazards.
Source - 2020-10-26 - Partnership - Kane Robotics joins 3M Robotics Network
The network connects robotics companies with 3M abrasive-process knowledge and application support. Kane entered the network while developing collaborative systems for sanding, grinding and finishing. The relationship expanded Kane's access to 3M abrasive products and robotic-process expertise.
Source