Apellix Company Profile

Background

Overview

Apellix is an innovative aerial robotics company specializing in the development of autonomous drones equipped with robotic arms and end effectors. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, Apellix focuses on creating solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in industrial applications. By deploying drones to perform tasks in hazardous environments, the company aims to protect workers by keeping them away from potential harm.

Mission and Vision

Apellix's mission is to develop elegant, transformative solutions that keep workers safe by removing them from dangerous tasks. The company's vision is to create innovative technologies that make the world a cleaner, more beautiful place by automating complex and hazardous processes.

Industry Significance

Operating in the aerial robotics and industrial maintenance sectors, Apellix has made significant strides in automating tasks traditionally performed by humans, such as cleaning, painting, and non-destructive testing of structures. The company's technologies have been recognized with multiple awards, including the NACE Innovation of the Year and Fast Company's World Changing Idea.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Apellix aims to revolutionize industrial maintenance by providing safer, faster, and more cost-effective solutions through the use of autonomous drones. The company focuses on reducing occupational hazards, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing the quality of maintenance processes.

Areas of Specialization

Apellix specializes in aerial robotic systems for:

• Power and Soft Washing: Automated cleaning of large structures without exposing workers to hazardous heights.

• Spray Painting: Application of industrial coatings with precision and uniformity.

• Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): Conducting structural assessments using drones equipped with ultrasonic and dry film thickness measurement capabilities.

Key Technologies Utilized

The company employs several proprietary technologies, including:

• Semi-Autonomous Flight Control Systems: Ensuring precise navigation and operation of drones in complex environments.

• Robotic Arms and End Effectors: Facilitating tasks such as painting, cleaning, and testing with high accuracy.

• Advanced Sensor Arrays: Equipping drones with ultrasonic and dry film thickness measurement tools for NDT applications.

Primary Markets Targeted

Apellix serves various industries, including:

• Infrastructure Maintenance: Cleaning and coating of bridges, water towers, and other critical structures.

• Industrial Facilities: Maintenance of storage tanks, silos, and manufacturing plants.

• Military and Defense: Development of decontamination drones for hazardous environments.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Specific details regarding Apellix's total funds raised and recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed. The company has, however, made significant investments in research and development to advance its technologies and expand its product offerings.

Notable Investors

Information about individual investors is not publicly available.

Utilization of Capital

Apellix has utilized its capital to:

• Expand Operations: Relocating to a new facility in Jacksonville, Florida, to enhance production capabilities.

• Invest in R&D: Developing new drone models and technologies, such as the B2 Power Wash Drone and Spray Painting Drone.

• Form Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with organizations like the U.S. Department of Defense for specialized applications.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Apellix is actively developing several drone models, including:

• B2 Power Wash Drone: An advanced model designed for efficient cleaning of large structures, with initial deliveries announced in August 2025.

• Spray Painting Drone: A drone equipped for applying industrial coatings with precision, currently in development.

Stages of Development

The B2 Power Wash Drone has progressed to the production and deployment stage, with units operational in various countries. The Spray Painting Drone is in the development phase, with ongoing research and testing.

Target Conditions

These drones are designed to operate in hazardous environments, including elevated structures, confined spaces, and areas with limited access.

Anticipated Milestones

Apellix plans to expand the deployment of the B2 Power Wash Drone and advance the development of the Spray Painting Drone, aiming for broader market adoption in the coming years.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Apellix's proprietary technologies include:

• Semi-Autonomous Flight Control Systems: Ensuring precise navigation and operation of drones in complex environments.

• Robotic Arms and End Effectors: Facilitating tasks such as painting, cleaning, and testing with high accuracy.

• Advanced Sensor Arrays: Equipping drones with ultrasonic and dry film thickness measurement tools for NDT applications.

Significant Scientific Methods

The company employs advanced algorithms for flight control, sensor data processing, and task automation, enabling drones to perform complex maintenance tasks autonomously.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

• Robert (Bob) Dahlstrom: Founder and CEO. He has been instrumental in developing Apellix's vision and leading the company since its inception.

• Grace D.: Chief Operating Officer. She oversees daily operations and ensures the efficient execution of company strategies.

• Ali Khakpour: Chief Technology Officer. He leads the technological development and innovation efforts at Apellix.

• Richard K. Alleger: Chief Financial Officer. He manages the company's financial strategies and operations.

Leadership Changes

No significant leadership changes have been publicly reported in recent years.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The aerial robotics industry, particularly in industrial maintenance, is experiencing rapid growth. Advancements in drone technology are driving demand for automated solutions that enhance safety and efficiency. The market is characterized by increasing adoption across various sectors, including infrastructure maintenance, industrial facilities, and defense.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the aerial robotics space include:

• Skycatch: Specializes in drone data solutions for construction and mining industries.

• Kespry: Provides drone-based aerial intelligence for mining, aggregates, and construction sectors.

• Measure: Offers drone services for industrial inspections and data collection.

These companies focus on various applications of drone technology, such as data collection, mapping, and inspection services.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Apellix has formed strategic partnerships to enhance its technological capabilities and market reach:

• U.S. Department of Defense: Collaborating to develop autonomous CBRN decontamination drones.

• HUVRdata, Inc.: Integrated Apellix drone data into HUVR's Inspection Data Management Platform.

• Citra-Shield: Certified to use Apellix drones for applying eco-friendly cleaning solutions.

Operational Insights

Apellix differentiates itself through its focus on safety, efficiency, and innovation. The company's drones are designed to perform tasks in hazardous environments, reducing the need for human intervention and minimizing risks. Apellix's commitment to research and development ensures continuous improvement and adaptation to market needs.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

Apellix plans to:

• Expand Product Offerings: Develop additional drone models for various industrial applications.

• Enhance Technological Capabilities: Integrate advanced AI and machine learning algorithms to improve drone autonomy and performance.

• Increase Market Penetration: Enter new geographic markets and industries to broaden the customer base.

Future Business Directions

The company aims to solidify its position as a leader in aerial robotics by continuously innovating and providing solutions that address complex industrial challenges.

Opportunities for Expansion

Apellix has opportunities to expand into sectors such as energy, telecommunications, and environmental monitoring, where drone technology can offer significant benefits.