PaintJet

Summary

PaintJet is a boom-lift-mounted robotic painting end effector that sprays exterior surfaces on warehouses, distribution facilities, tilt-up structures, precast concrete, and structural steel; an operator on the ground controls positioning via joystick while onboard sensors maintain wall distance and monitor environmental conditions. The system covers surface preparation, primer, and topcoat application as a full-service engagement: PaintJet provides operators, proprietary Alpha Shield paint, and project oversight rather than selling or leasing the robot. PaintJet has been shipping since 2021, with $17M in total funding and coverage from CNBC, TechCrunch, and The Robot Report.

Surface Preparation and Cleaning Primer Application Topcoat Application (One or Two Coats)

How it works on your site

Surface Preparation and Cleaning

Drones survey the site before painting to map surface needs and forecast optimal coatings. The system then scans the building using 3D cameras and ultrasonic sensors before the crew begins spray work. PaintJet handles covering, power washing, and surface preparation as part of the full-service engagement.

Primer Application

The Charlie end effector mounts to a standard boom lift and sprays primer while ultrasonic sensors maintain consistent wall distance. Environmental sensors monitor temperature, humidity, and wind speed, triggering go/no-go decisions before each application pass. The operator stays on the ground and controls lift positioning with a joystick remote.

Topcoat Application (One or Two Coats)

Topcoat application uses the same sensor-guided spray process as primer: the system adapts in real time to surface conditions while maintaining wall distance. PaintJet lists structural steel coatings, vermiculite coatings, intumescent coatings, and fireproof coatings among its service offerings.

How it worked on other sites

Commercial construction

Robotic painting demonstration at Haskell Innovation Showcase.

Robot also used by

Will it work on your site

Environment Outdoor, weather-dependent Sensors monitor temperature, humidity, wind, and barometric pressure

Surface Concrete, precast, tilt-up, structural steel Marine structures and wind turbines also listed

Minimum project size 100,000 sq ft Smaller projects not economically viable (vendor-stated)

Setup time 30 min Tool-free assembly and disassembly

Transport Fits on two pallets Pickup truck or small trailer (vendor-stated)

Positioning Boom lift required Connects to industry-standard lifts on site

Control Remote-controlled, ground-operated Operator stays at ground level

Site preparation PaintJet handles prep Drone inspection, surface washing, and surface prep included

Crew size 2-3 person team per robot Replaces traditional 6-person painting crew

Engagement model Full-service painting provider PaintJet supplies operators, equipment, and proprietary paint; robot not sold or leased