DAEJEON, Jan. 22 (Korea Bizwire) — The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) announced on January 21 that it has transferred technology for its ARMstrong high-payload dual-arm robot to Victex, a machinery manufacturing company. The technology transfer agreement includes an upfront payment of 180 million won and a 3% royalty on future sales.
Victex, which specializes in developing remote robot control technology for radiation workers, plans to deploy the ARMstrong robot at nuclear power plant decommissioning sites for decontamination, cutting, and hazardous material transport operations.
ARMstrong, developed by a research team led by Park Jong-won, was designed as a nuclear disaster response robot. The robot’s distinctive feature is its ability to lift objects weighing up to 200kg with its dual arms. Its mobility across rough terrain makes it particularly valuable for nuclear decommissioning sites where heavy objects need to be moved in complex environments.
The technology transfer package includes the robot’s manipulator arms, control systems, and remote operation technology. Additionally, five design and control system patents filed between 2016 and 2023, along with design drawings, software, and operational expertise, were included in the agreement.
Victex plans to develop a new decontamination robot platform by combining its proprietary hybrid decontamination technology for radioactive waste with ARMstrong’s robotic capabilities.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)