Welcome to the “Six Questions With” series, where we profile individuals and their robotics journey. We see what motivates them and where they see robotics going.
This week, we sit down with Valoy Automation Founder and CEO Vanessa Loiola. Vanessa was born in Brazil, but now calls Ireland her home. Her story is both familiar and unique. That is why we picked her for the very first “Six Questions.”
Let’s start with how you started your robotics journey.
Vanessa: It's a funny story. I've always had an interest in technology and robotics, and after watching Iron Man, I knew I wanted to work with robotics. However, at the time, I had just finished studying Industrial Engineering, and I didn't want to pursue another degree. A friend of mine suggested I take an Introduction to Robotics course, which I thought was a great way to start. If I didn't like it, at least it was only a few weeks long and not too costly. In the end, I enjoyed the course so much that I decided to pursue my dream of working in robotics. Unfortunately, at that time, I was planning to move to Ireland to learn English, and I couldn't work in the field in Brazil. After a few years in Ireland, I decided to apply for a job in automation, even though I didn't have any prior experience. However, I was eager to learn and had a passion for robotics. I was fortunate enough to be given the opportunity, and I have been working hard ever since, more passionately about robotics than ever before.
So what does your company Valoy Automation do?
Vanessa: Valoy Automation was founded in 2022 and has become a leading provider of robot programming services. We specialize in improving the efficiency of robot cells and have identified common challenges in the robotics programming market, such as poorly structured programs, safety concerns, lack of standardization, and complex code that is difficult to maintain.
At Valoy, we use a unique methodology to address these issues and our client’s needs, aiming to maximize the operational capacity of machines while ensuring enhanced time utilization and prioritizing the safety of individuals and objects interacting with the programmed robots. What sets Valoy apart is our commitment to creating code that is both efficient and easy to understand. We take pride in our ability to develop high-quality code from scratch, anticipating challenges and delivering flexible solutions that set them apart from our competitors. Our focus extends beyond efficiency to include a commitment to safety and quality assurance, ensuring that businesses benefit from robotics and operate within the highest safety and reliability standards.
Valoy Automation envisions a future in which companies confidently adopt robotics applications, and Valoy Automation is synonymous with exceptional code quality and rapid problem-solving. We aim to redefine the standard for accessibility in robotics programming, paving the way for a future where the benefits of automation are accessible to businesses of all sizes.
Only a few people think of Ireland and Robotics. So, as a CEO in the Irish robotics community, what key aspects do you want to share with the larger global robotics community?
Vanessa: Ireland has been making strides in the field of robotics, contributing to the global automation landscape. Key aspects of the robotics industry in Ireland include:
Research and Development: Ireland has a strong focus on research and development in robotics. Academic institutions and research centers collaborate with industry partners to drive innovation and advance robotics technology.
Startups and Companies: The country hosts a growing number of robotics startups and companies that specialize in various aspects of robotics, including robot design, manufacturing, and programming.
Collaborative Robotics: Ireland has shown interest in collaborative robotics, where robots work alongside humans. This approach is particularly relevant to industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.
Industrial Applications: The robotics industry in Ireland has a significant presence in industrial automation. Robots are employed in manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency, precision, and overall productivity.
Government Support: The Irish government has been supportive of initiatives promoting technology and innovation, including robotics. Funding programs and incentives may be available to encourage research and development in the field.
Education and Training: Ireland provides education and training programs in robotics and automation, fostering a skilled workforce to support the growing industry.
International Collaboration: Irish robotics companies often collaborate with international partners, contributing to global advancements in the field. Participation in collaborative research projects and partnerships with multinational corporations is common.
Application in Various Sectors: Robotics technology is applied across various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, and logistics. The versatility of robotics solutions makes them applicable to a wide range of industries.
You are very passionate about wanting to see more women in robotics, what do you think women need to know about a career in robotics that is not well known?
Vanessa: Embarking on a career in robotics, it's crucial for women to recognize the untold narrative of our forbearers who defied stereotypes and significantly shaped automation technologies. From Ada Lovelace's pioneering work in computing to contemporary female leaders in robotics, women have left an indelible mark on this field. This rich history should be a wellspring of inspiration, dispelling any notion that robotics is exclusively a "men's job."
Contrary to outdated stereotypes, women have been at the forefront of programming, algorithm design, and the broader development of automation technologies. Understanding these historical achievements is not just empowering; it redefines the narrative surrounding gender roles in robotics.
Breaking free from the confines of a male-dominated perception is essential. The diverse talents and contributions of women have propelled the progress of robotics. Encouragingly, a career in robotics is not bound by gender. It is a realm open to individuals driven by passion, curiosity, and determination, regardless of gender.
Women should know that their unique perspectives and talents are not just welcomed in robotics; they are essential. Our involvement is integral to the vibrant future of robotics and automation. Embracing this understanding, women can confidently pursue and excel in robotics, contributing to a field that values diversity as a driving force behind innovation and progress. In essence, our journey in robotics is not just a personal endeavor but a continuation of a legacy forged by the trailblazing women who came before us.
Now let’s talk about your robotics work itself. What has been the coolest robot application you have gotten to work on?
I worked on an unloading robot cell where the primary task was to efficiently transfer products from a container onto a conveyor. Designing the code for this involved intricate calculations to effectively utilize the data provided by the vision system. The challenge was not only to accurately determine the target locations, but also to ensure the robot's movements avoided collisions with the container. I created a code that heavily relied on mathematical principles.
This particular application stands out as one of my most fascinating experiences. The excitement came from the fact that the coding process was predominantly driven by mathematical algorithms. The precision required for the calculations and the real-world testing added an extra layer of complexity and intrigue to the project. Being able to successfully implement a solution that balanced mathematical accuracy with practical application was immensely satisfying. This application not only showcased the power of coding based on mathematical principles, but also highlighted the thrill of seeing theory seamlessly translate into practical, efficient robotic movement.
What is your biggest goal for the robotics industry in 2024?
Become the first Robotics programming Specialist in Ireland who works with the 10 big robot manufactures.
Big thank you to Vanessa for participating in our new series “Six Questions With.”
Follow Vanessa on LinkedIn by clicking here.
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