JLG Industries, Inc. has acquired the core technology developed by Canvas, a San Francisco-based construction robotics technology company known for creating robotic solutions for interior construction applications. Through this strategic investment in intelligent automation for future job sites, JLG will advance its own strategy to support contractors with autonomous, connected lifting equipment.
The relationship between the companies began six years ago when Canvas selected a JLG platform to develop its robot, and, since then, the technology has advanced to automate repetitive tasks and enable consistent, high-quality results — helping shape safe, efficient, and productive job sites.
"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, parent company of JLG, 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 is best known for developing the drywall finishing robot, which combines robotic precision with the skills and expertise of trained tradespeople. The system streamlines interior finishing workflows by automating fit-and-finish tasks, reducing rework, and delivering consistent quality while minimizing physical demands on workers.
Through the acquisition, Canvas technology will advance robotic end-effector capabilities and autonomy, enabling pairing with JLG access equipment to support a range of interior construction applications. These solutions are designed to assist skilled 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 contractors to get more done with the equipment they rely on, increasing productivity, and shaping the future of job sites.
"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."
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