Skyline Robotics, The Durst Organization and Palladium Window Solutions have moved technology sky high by deploying Ozmo, the world’s first robotic-armed window-cleaning robot, at a New York City skyscraper.
Ozmo will maintain 1133 Avenue of the Americas, a 45-story, Class A office tower owned and managed by The Durst Organization. 1133 Avenue of the Americas is now the only skyscraper in the world utilizing an automated window cleaning system, the companies said.
“Together with our partners Palladium Window Solutions and The Durst Organization, Skyline Robotics is changing centuries of tradition and the landscape of Manhattan forever with our advanced technology,” said Michael Brown, CEO, Skyline Robotics. “We’re delivering the future of façade maintenance as Ozmo and human window cleaners work in unison to protect the health of buildings faster and safer than existing solutions.”
Ozmo is U.S. patent-approved and its deployment comes after rigorous testing and meeting regulatory requirements. Outfitted with AI, machine learning and computer vision with advanced robotics and sensors, Ozmo cleans windows three times faster than traditional window cleaning, is outfitted with technology that ensures it provides consistent, high-quality cleaning and removes humans from potentially dangerous working environments.
Ozmo’s arrival in New York City comes amidst a growing labor shortage of window cleaners providing new opportunities. According to a study from Zippia, 75% of window cleaners nationally are above the age of 40, while just 9% are between 20 and 30 years old. Meanwhile, the NYC skyline continues to expand with new and taller buildings being developed.
As Ozmo fills the labor shortage void, it is also creating new jobs. Ozmo, while autonomous, is still operated by humans using a computer on the rooftop. The end result is humans and robots working together, with humans supervising while robots do the cleaning.
“New York City is world-renowned for its skyscrapers and an exceptionally skilled labor force,” said Nick Durst, senior analyst at The Durst Organization. “The Durst Organization’s investment in Skyline and implementation of Ozmo is driving the future of the window cleaning industry to make the work safer and more efficient, while creating new opportunities for window cleaners.”
Ozmo robots are slated for future deployments in London with partner Principle Cleaning Services. Additionally, the company has secured key patents from Japan and Singapore as part of its global deployment.
