Kinova

In 2006, Charles Deguire and Louis-Joseph L'Écuyer founded Kinova as an independent manufacturer of robotic devices.^[5][6] Deguire's uncle was an inventor who created a manipulator for his wheelchair, which became the basis for the company to create the robotic arms.^[7] By 2009, Kinova had introduced a robotic arm that could fit onto any standard wheelchair and allow users to feed themselves.^[8][9]

From 2016 to 2018, Kinova expanded its operations, opening offices in Germany and China.^[10][11] In 2017, Kinova announced that it had raised $25 million in funding backed by investors KTB Network, BDC Venture Capital, Fonds Manufacturier Québécois and Foxconn Technology Group.^[12][13][14] Later in the year, the company collaborated and partnered with McGill University to increase their collaborative research involving medical, surgical and assistive robotics.^[15]

Kinova produces the Jaco Assistive robotic arm, a six-axis robotic manipulator arm with a two- or three-finger hand to improve the life of people with mobility issues.^[16][17][18]

Kinova also provides accessories such as arm grippers, actuators and controllers.^[19][20]

• Assistive technology
• Rehabilitation robotics
• Medical robot
• Industrial robot