Q5D Technologies, a start-up which uses robotics to automate the process of producing wiring harnesses for electronics, has secured US$2.5m (£1.8m) in seed investment to further develop its technology.
According to the Bristol-based firm, until now the wiring in most products has been made and installed by hand. Q5D has the potential to transform the wiring industry by improving process quality, eliminating human error, increasing production speed and simplifying supply chains. Products could benefit from lower weight with improved reliability and safety.
The company’s solutions can be applied by manufacturers prioritising automation and advanced manufacturing. Example markets include automotive, aerospace, and consumer white goods and electronics.
“This is a time of great change—the rapid electrification of our transport systems and the increasing functionality of everything from washing machines to mobile phones means that wiring is becoming more complex and labour intensive,” said Stephen Bennington, co-founder of Q5D Technologies.
The funds come from three venture investment companies with lead investor Chrysalix Venture Capital, based in Vancouver, Delft from the Netherlands, and SOSV a Silicon Valley investor who invested pre-seed funds into Q5D and mentored the company through its hardtech start-up program HAX. The UK Innovation & Science Seed Fund LP, which specialises in seed investment in the UK’s most innovative companies also invested.
Bennington added: “We are really pleased to have the chance to work with all our new investors, they are bringing a wealth of commercial and governance experience that will keep us focused and grow the company in the right way.”
