Atlanta, GA – Sonair, a Norwegian technology company, is showcasing its groundbreaking ADAR (Acoustic Detection and Ranging) sensor at MODEX 2026 this week, marking a significant step forward in robotic safety and spatial awareness. The ADAR sensor, which recently earned the LogiMAT Best Product Award, offers a unique approach to obstacle detection, utilizing sound rather than light to give robots a more comprehensive “sense” of their surroundings. This technology is particularly relevant as autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) turn into increasingly prevalent in warehouses, factories, and other collaborative work environments.
Traditional robotic systems often rely on 2D sensing technologies like cameras and lasers for navigation, and safety. However, these systems can be hampered by factors such as poor lighting, reflective surfaces, and dust, leading to potential errors and safety concerns. Sonair’s ADAR sensor overcomes these limitations by creating a full 3D map of the environment using ultrasonic waves, providing a more reliable and deterministic method for short-range distance measurements – crucial for preventing collisions and ensuring safe human-robot interaction.
The ADAR sensor’s development is rooted in research conducted at the SINTEF research institute in Norway. The technology employs MEMS-based transducer arrays to detect objects and people in real-time. This isn’t a futuristic concept; the technology is already in serial production, integrated into Cleanfix’s RA660 Navi XL autonomous floor-cleaning robot, a deployment that demonstrates its viability in real-world industrial settings like sports venues and manufacturing facilities. The $6 million funding round Sonair secured in Q3 2025 is now fueling the global rollout of this innovative sensing platform, according to the company.
A New Dimension in Robot Perception
The core innovation of ADAR lies in its ability to provide true three-dimensional spatial awareness. Unlike 2D sensors that offer a limited “slice” of the environment, ADAR’s 180° x 180° field of view eliminates blind spots, allowing robots to perceive obstacles at all heights. This comprehensive perception translates to enhanced operational uptime, as the sensor minimizes unnecessary stops caused by false positives – a common issue with optical systems in dynamic environments.
“Robots must understand the world around them reliably if they are going to work safely alongside people,” explains Knut Sandven, CEO of Sonair. “Receiving the LogiMAT Best Product Award, and now bringing ADAR to MODEX is strong recognition that the industry sees the demand for this new sensing layer. But we didn’t build this to win awards. We built it so people don’t receive hurt.”
Privacy and Security Benefits
Beyond safety and reliability, ADAR offers a significant advantage in environments where privacy and security are paramount. By deliberately avoiding the use of cameras or other optical sensors, the system allows autonomous robots to operate in sensitive locations – such as military facilities or secure commercial sites – where visual surveillance is restricted or prohibited. This privacy-first approach is a key differentiator for Sonair, addressing a growing concern as robots become more integrated into various aspects of daily life.
The benefits extend to data security as well. Unlike camera systems, ADAR doesn’t generate visual data that could be intercepted or compromised. The ultrasonic data is inherently less susceptible to hacking and misuse, providing an additional layer of protection for sensitive information.
Technical Specifications and Advantages
The ADAR sensor boasts several key technical advantages:
- Full 180° × 180° Field of View: Provides total spatial awareness, eliminating blind spots.
- Enhanced Operational Uptime: Reduces unnecessary stops by accurately detecting obstacles and minimizing false positives.
- Safe Human-Robot Interaction: Designed for dynamic environments where humans and AMRs work in close proximity.
- Privacy-First Operation: Avoids the use of cameras or optical sensors, enabling operation in secure environments.
Industry Recognition and Future Outlook
Sonair’s momentum is building. In addition to the LogiMAT award and the Cleanfix integration, the company’s ADAR technology was recognized as one of inVISION’s Top Innovations for 2026, highlighting its breakthrough potential in machine vision and sensing technologies. This recognition underscores the growing demand for advanced sensing solutions that can enhance the safety, efficiency, and security of autonomous systems.
The company is currently demonstrating the ADAR sensor at MODEX 2026, Booth #B15851, April 13-16, in Atlanta. The demonstration will allow potential customers and industry experts to experience the technology firsthand and explore its potential applications. Sonair is actively seeking partnerships with robotics manufacturers and system integrators to expand the adoption of ADAR across a wider range of industries.
Looking ahead, Sonair plans to continue refining its ADAR technology and developing new sensing solutions for autonomous machines. The company is focused on expanding the sensor’s capabilities, reducing its size and cost, and integrating it into a broader range of robotic platforms. The next major milestone for Sonair will be the expansion of the Cleanfix RA660 Navi XL deployment to additional customer sites in late 2026, providing further validation of the technology’s real-world performance.
The development of reliable and robust sensing technologies like ADAR is crucial for unlocking the full potential of robotics and automation. As robots become increasingly integrated into our lives, ensuring their safety and security will be paramount. Sonair’s innovative approach to 3D ultrasonic sensing represents a significant step towards achieving that goal.
What are your thoughts on the future of robotic sensing? Share your comments below and let us know how you see this technology impacting your industry.
