Urban Machine utilizes robotics and AI to reclaim high-grade dimensional lumber from construction and demolition (C&D) waste streams. This automated process efficiently removes metal fasteners, enabling the wood to be reintroduced as premium material for construction. The company promotes circular economy practices by reducing landfilling and offering a cost-competitive alternative to virgin lumber.
Funding
$7.2M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
AIFounders
Product
Problem
The construction and demolition (C&D) industry generates significant lumber waste, which often ends up in landfills or is processed into low-value products. This contributes to environmental problems, including increased carbon emissions and depletion of virgin timber resources.
Solution
Urban Machine offers a robotic system that automates the extraction of metal fasteners from C&D lumber waste, enabling the recovery of high-quality wood for reuse. By using AI and computer vision, the system identifies and removes nails, staples, and screws, producing metal-free reclaimed lumber. This process provides a cost-effective alternative to virgin lumber while reducing landfill waste, transportation needs, and overall carbon footprint. The reclaimed lumber retains the desirable characteristics of older wood, such as hardness, straightness, and tight grain patterns.
Target Audience
The primary customers are C&D waste facilities, demolition contractors, developers, and architects seeking sustainable and cost-effective lumber solutions.
Features
- AI-powered computer vision system for precise detection of metal fasteners in lumber.
- Patented end effectors designed for efficient removal of various fastener types.
- Integrated metal detection system to ensure metal-free output.
- Robotic system designed for integration into existing C&D waste processing facilities.
- Reclamation process preserves the structural integrity and aesthetic qualities of the lumber.