Ultra-botics, a promising Ukrainian startup in the field of non-destructive testing (NDT) for hardware, is preparing to launch its first pilot project in collaboration with Ukrzaliznytsia this summer. The startup, which leverages AI to detect defects in metal structures, is taking a significant step in proving the viability and efficiency of its technology in real-world conditions.
In an exclusive conversation with dev.ua, Ultra-botics Founder Serhiy Brandis provided insights into the startup’s innovative AI-assisted defect detection system. The technology enables the detection of defects in metal objects without causing any damage. Using a special virtual representation of the object known as a defectogram, the Ultra-botics system uses AI to automatically highlight areas with a high probability of defect. This feature saves valuable time for specialists who previously had to manually analyse the entire defectogram.
“Our startup uses an AI assistant that helps automatically highlight areas on the defectogram where there is a high probability of a defect. This significantly saves time for specialists who monitor objects, because they do not need to analyze the entire defectogram manually,” Brandis explained.
Another key feature of the technology is the creation of digital twins for objects. By storing data about the object, Ultra-botics allows for the monitoring and prediction of the object’s state over time, opening up new possibilities for proactive maintenance and defect prevention.
Ultra-botics is currently in the pre-seed stage and has already secured preliminary agreements with its first customers. These customers are providing real defectogram data to test the AI assistant in real-world scenarios. The startup is also collecting feedback from professionals in non-destructive testing to refine its product for optimal use in industrial settings.
“We are also actively collecting feedback from non-destructive testing professionals to make the product as useful and convenient as possible for professional use,” Brandis added.
The company’s core team consists of experienced professionals, including the Founder, Serhiy Brandis, and the CTO, who have a combined 12 years of experience in NDT. The team also includes a Software Engineer, all of whom have expertise in developing solutions for industrial tasks, artificial intelligence, and technical data processing.
While the startup has yet to attract grants or investment, it has already spent around $20,000 developing the product and is planning to monetise the solution through a flexible subscription model. The cost of the subscription will vary depending on several factors, including the number of terminals, data volume, sensor usage, and additional services such as the creation of digital twins.
“We plan to create a flexible pricing model that will take into account the real needs of the client,” assured Brandis.
Initially, Ultra-botics will focus on the railway industry, leveraging its experience in non-destructive testing of railway tracks. However, the company envisions the scalability of its technology to other sectors, including infrastructure projects such as bridges and pipelines, the military and defense sector, and the agro-industry for monitoring large-sized equipment and metal structures.
“At first the team will focus exclusively on the railway industry, since the startup has practical experience in the field of non-destructive testing of railway tracks,” Brandis explained.
The company recently participated in the WinWin Deep Tech Accelerator, where it honed its skills in handling big data, building competitive business models, and refining go-to-market strategies. This experience has revealed new opportunities for the startup to expand into other industries.
“Thanks to participation in the WinWin Deep Tech Accelerator, we saw new opportunities for scaling. Our solution can be effectively adapted to other areas,” said Brandis.
Ultra-botics is also considering applying its technology in the defence tech sector, particularly in inspecting ground robotic complexes (GRCs) and military equipment for potential defects in structures, armor, and critical components.
“We are currently in the negotiation phase with defence companies. This allows us to better understand the needs of this sector and adapt the technology to the specific requirements of military infrastructure,” Brandis noted.
Looking ahead, Ultra-botics’ immediate plan includes the launch of its pilot project with Ukrzaliznytsia this summer, a key milestone for the startup as it tests its solution in real-world conditions at critical infrastructure sites.
“Next, we plan to deepen cooperation with the defence industry. Our artificial intelligence system is capable of helping in the more effective use of large strategic facilities — both in the civilian and military spheres,” Brandis concluded.
Ultra-botics is optimistic that its innovative technology will play an essential role in Ukraine’s recovery and modernisation, particularly in strengthening the country’s industrial infrastructure.
Reference: https://dev.ua/en/news/ultra-botics-1744715471
