Robot maker · early
RoBoa
ETH Zurich spin-off (Autonomous Systems Lab / D-MAVT focus project) building a soft continuum snake robot that moves by growing a compressed-air-everted fabric tube into its environment, reaching up to 100 m with a 5-10 cm diameter and no need for traction. Target uses are inspection of pipes, sewers and tanks in wastewater, power and chemical plants, plus search and rescue in collapsed buildings where it can locate victims, carry comms and supply liquids. Supported by an ETH Pioneer Fellowship, Swiss Technology Award and Venture Kick; near market-ready and running first pilot projects as of late 2025. Founded as a company in 2025 by four D-MAVT graduates (the focus project dates to 2021, per the candidate hint).
Company overview
Identity and operating footprint
Robot models
Specifications remain vendor-claimed
RoBoa
- Grows up to 100 m into pipes and rubble via pneumatic tube eversion, diameter 5-10 cm
Vine-robot locomotion: the body everts material at the tip so nothing slides against the environment
Claim source - Operates in confined spaces inaccessible to humans, drones or wheeled robots for inspection and search-and-rescue
Use-case claim covering sewer/tank inspection and post-earthquake victim location with two-way communication
Claim source
Funding history
Publicly announced rounds
Grant
Round sourceCompany timeline
Milestones and announcements
Source ledger
4 unique public sources