🇩🇪 Agile Robots

About Agile Robots

Agile Robots was founded in 2018 in Munich as a spin-off from the German Aerospace Center (DLR), one of Europe's premier robotics research institutions. The DLR connection gives Agile Robots access to decades of research in torque-controlled manipulation, human-robot interaction, and space robotics that directly informs the DIANA arm product line. The company raised $120 million in a funding round that included participation from major Chinese technology investors, reflecting global interest in its technical pedigree.

The DIANA arm combines high-resolution joint torque sensing with impedance control algorithms, enabling sensitive force-regulated contact that is required for delicate assembly tasks and safe human collaboration. This positions the arm competitively against Universal Robots and Franka in research and light production applications where force control quality matters. Agile Robots also developed the Agile Justin full-body robot platform in partnership with DLR, though this remains primarily a research system.

The company's partial acquisition of or investment relationship with Franka Robotics created a combined European cobot entity with significant installed base and research credibility.

Key Products

• DIANA 7: 7-DoF collaborative arm; 14 kg payload, joint torque sensing, impedance control, designed for research and flexible assembly
• DIANA Lite: Lighter configuration for education and research applications

UK Market Presence

Agile Robots sells in the UK through direct European channels and robotics system integrators. UK research institutions and advanced manufacturing operations are the primary customer base. Pricing for DIANA 7 is approximately £30,000 to £45,000 depending on configuration. UK university departments interested in torque-controlled manipulation research have purchased DIANA as an alternative to Franka. Post-Brexit import from Germany carries standard customs duties.

Buying Used Agile Robots Equipment

The secondhand market for DIANA arms is limited due to the relatively small installed base and recent product launch. University equipment disposals are the most likely source. Buyers should verify calibration data, check joint condition, and confirm software licence status. Agile Robots' European service presence supports UK buyers through authorised channels.