3X faster: World’s 1st window-scrubbing robot cleans NYC’s 45-story skyscraper

The world’s first robotic-armed window-cleaning robot has been deployed for operations at a New York City skyscraper.

Ozmo, developed by Skyline Robotics, was introduced in the city in association with The Durst Organization and Palladium Window Solution. It is equipped with AI, machine learning, and computer vision, as well as advanced robotics and sensors.

Ozmo will maintain 1133 Avenue of the Americas, a 45-story Durst Organization tower in Bryant Park in its inaugural mission in the city. It’s the world’s only skyscraper with an automated window cleaning system.

According to the firms, Ozmo’s entry will advance the $40B window-cleaning industry, address a global labor shortage, and create jobs. Its advanced technology will eventually keep workers safe through full automation.

Ozmo’s smart efficiency

Ozmo represents a leap forward in window cleaning technology, blending machine learning and AI for unparalleled precision and adaptability. Its advanced systems allow Ozmo to operate with extreme accuracy, constantly adjusting to its surroundings for efficient performance.

By using lidar , Ozmo meticulously scans building surfaces, memorizing every curve and edge to navigate with exceptional detail. Its force sensors provide a tactile sense, ensuring just the right amount of pressure is applied, protecting delicate glass surfaces.

The robot’s brain processes this data to understand its environment comprehensively, enabling it to make real-time decisions and maintain stability even in challenging conditions, such as gusts of wind.

Ozmo’s ability to continually recalculate its cleaning path hundreds of times per second ensures it follows the most effective route, optimizing the cleaning process.

Safety is a key feature, as Ozmo can be stopped instantly from your station, providing full control over its operations. According to Skyline, Ozmo’s versatility and advanced capabilities make it a game-changer in the window-washing industry, setting new standards for reliability and efficiency.

“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,” said Michael Brown, CEO of Skyline Robotics, in a statement .

Advancing the industry

Real estate developers invest over $1 billion in new building projects, yet facade maintenance methods remain outdated.

The window cleaning industry generates $40 billion annually, yet it faces a significant challenge with an aging workforce—75 percent of window cleaners in the US are over 40, while only 9 percent are between 20 and 30.

As the number of buildings taller than 200 meters increases by 176 percent, the demand for skilled labor intensifies. This highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions to sustain the industry’s growth and meet the evolving demands of modern architecture.

With products like Ozmo, Skyline aims to transform this aspect of the industry by introducing advanced technology that ensures the highest standards are met. By combining human expertise with robotic innovation, exceptional results in building facade maintenance can be achieved.

According to the firm, Ozmo offers an advanced approach to window cleaning. It delivers results three times faster than traditional methods while enhancing safety by keeping operators off the facade.

Utilizing real-time simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) technology, Ozmo optimizes its cleaning path for maximum efficiency and ensures top-notch quality.

Skyline claims its automated process elevates the standard of window maintenance and leaves tenants satisfied, inspired by the innovation that keeps their buildings spotless and well-maintained.