JLG Industries, an Oshkosh Corporation business [NYSE:OSK] and a manufacturer of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and telehandlers, acquired the core technology developed by Canvas, a San Francisco-based construction robotics technology company known for pioneering robotic solutions for interior construction applications. Through this investment in intelligent automation for the job site of the future, this acquisition will advance JLG’s strategy to support customer needs beyond enabling jobs to actively executing them with autonomous, connected equipment.
The relationship between the two companies began six years ago when Canvas chose a JLG platform as the foundation for developing its robotic technology. Since then, the technology has advanced to automate repetitive tasks and enable consistent results.
“By integrating robotic technology that delivers moments of autonomy, we’re helping crews get more work done in today’s challenging labor environment,” says Mahesh Narang, executive vice president, Oshkosh Corporation, and president of the Access segment. “This investment expands what customers will be able to accomplish with JLG equipment.”
“Robotics and automation will play an increasingly important role in the future of construction, especially as the industry looks for practical ways to deliver greater efficiencies, improve productivity and enhance consistency on job sites,” says Shashank Bhatia, access chief technology officer. “This acquisition strengthens our technology roadmap and accelerates our ability to deliver solutions that create real, measurable value for customers in the field.”
Canvas developed the world’s first drywall finishing robot, combining robotic precision with the skills and expertise of trained tradespeople. The system streamlines interior finishing workflows by automating fit-and-finish tasks, decreasing rework and delivering consistent quality while reducing physical demands on workers.
Canvas technology plans to advance robotic end-effector capabilities and autonomy through this acquisition, enabling pairing with JLG access equipment to support a range of interior construction applications. These solutions are made to assist workers by handling repetitive, physically demanding tasks and allowing crews to focus on higher-value work.
With this acquisition, the Canvas team will help JLG develop new robotic and autonomous solutions for customers to get more done with the equipment they rely on.
“We welcome the Canvas team members to the company,” Bhatia says. “They bring a strong combination of technical depth, creativity and a clear understanding of job site challenges. We see tremendous opportunity to apply their expertise to the next generation of purpose-built solutions.”