here.
(Click for larger view of the CoroBot)CoroWare's CoroBot is based on a Via Mini-ITX mini PC motherboard running Windows XP. It packs a webcam and communicates via WiFi.
Innova expects to leverage CoroWare's robotics and Windows XP Embedded expertise to "extend [Innova's] current Microsoft-based offerings to include enterprise-wide factory solutions worldwide as well as expand our presence in Homeland Security, space and undersea exploration, and military segments of the marketplace," according to Innova Chairman and CEO Walter Weisel.
"The U.S. Government has appropriated $33 billion to develop an unmanned fighting force. The goal is to convert 30 percent of its fighting force to unmanned systems by 2010. We believe robotics will play a key role in future armament and guidance systems for this unmanned force," explained Weisel. "CoroWare has demonstrated the development and integration expertise necessary to tie together mobile and embedded systems for such advanced robotics applications employing the latest in software platforms."
"The company has developed innovative robotic solutions on the Microsoft Windows XP embedded platform," Weisel continued. "CoroWare also shares our commitment to open-architecture systems and is proficient at maximizing the use of commercially available, off-the-shelf hardware and software for robotics projects. As evidence of this acknowledged expertise, CoroWare has been working as a member of the U.S. Government sponsored Joint Architecture for Unmanned Ground Systems (JAUS) standards committee. CoroWare Test Labs is the first robotic standards conformance organization and is the sole commercial developer of test services and products for JAUS compliance."
"Teaming with Innova Holdings is an ideal fit for CoroWare and gives us access to significant robotics market opportunities," added CoroWare CEO Lloyd Spencer. "Innova Holdings' focus on evolutionary technology, their presence in the defense and homeland security segments, and their commitment to open standards solidifies CoroWare's position. In partnership with Robotic Workspace Technologies and Innova Robotics, we will continue our work to accelerate and refine the robotics market and deliver cutting-edge, cost-effective mobile service robotics solutions."
The transaction is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2006, subject to successful negotiations and approval by Innova's board of directors, Innova said.
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