Calgary-based robotics startup Attabotics and Boston-based fulfillment automation company Urbx have announced a mutual resolution to the litigation between them regarding two patents held by Attabotics. The initial complaint was made by Attabotics, accusing Urbx of infringing on their patented invention by using a similar robotic storage and retrieval system in the United States.
In a joint motion to dismiss granted by the district court, the parties stated that they have reached an amicable resolution, although the specific terms of the agreement will remain confidential. As both companies operate in the automated fulfillment sector, their aim is to revolutionize last-mile delivery by replacing traditional fulfillment centers with robots and vertical storage structures.
Currently, Attabotics holds the rights to the two patents related to robotic storage and retrieval, making this resolution an important development for the company. Further information regarding the settlement or any potential compensation has not been disclosed.
In a separate case, Attabotics has filed a statement of claim against Canadian Tire, alleging that the company’s negligence and breach of contract led to a warehouse fire at Canadian Tire’s distribution center in Ontario. The fire incurred significant costs amounting to $74.6 million for Canadian Tire, covering damage to the building, lost inventory, and cleanup and repairs.
Attabotics, founded in 2015, is known as the world’s first 3D robotics supply chain system provider. The startup has attracted significant investments, including $106.8 million CAD ($83 million USD) from Canadian pension funds and US-based private equity and venture capital firms. With more than 300 employees, Attabotics has established fulfillment centers across North America, servicing various industries such as apparel, food and beverage, and home goods.
Sources:
– [Source 1]
– [Source 2]
Definitions:
– Robotics: The branch of technology that deals with design, construction, operation, and application of robots.
– Fulfillment automation: The use of automated systems and technology to optimize and streamline the order fulfillment process.
– Patents: Legal rights granted to inventors by the government, giving them exclusive control over their inventions for a specific period of time.
– Mutual resolution: An agreement or settlement reached by all parties involved, resulting in a resolution to a dispute or conflict.
– Last-mile delivery: The final stage of the delivery process, encompassing the transportation of goods from a fulfillment center or distribution hub to the end consumer.
Sources:
1. [Source 1]
2. [Source 2]