Hardware-as-a-service (HaaS) is gaining momentum across a variety of industries. Many of the early adopters of HaaS are in robotics, offering robots-as-a-service (RaaS) to decrease barriers to entry and improve overall value to customers. Others offer machine-as-a-service (MaaS), device-as-a-service (DaaS), or equipment-as-a-service (EaaS).
Some companies pitch outcomes more than assets, offering data-as-a-service or platform-as-a-service models. From network-as-a-service to facades cleaning; managed service providers (MSPs) to managed security service providers (MSSPs); and autonomous construction equipment to diagnostic sensors and 3D printers, these companies are on the cutting-edge of their fields.
This post is part of a series about modern hardware companies, their business models, and the future of HaaS. For more, see posts from early and late October, early and late November, early and late December, and early and late January.
TRUMPF is a global leader in high-precision machine tools and laser systems, serving everything from automotive plants to aerospace suppliers. The company’s hardware portfolio includes 2D and 3D laser cutting machines, TruBend press brakes for high-accuracy bending, TruPunch systems for automated punching, and TruLaser Weld setups for robotic laser welding. TRUMPF also builds additive manufacturing systems like the TruPrint 5000, a metal 3D printer. On the software side, the company's Oseon Smart Factory suite connects machines, material flow, and production planning; while its TruTops software programs, monitors, and optimizes laser and punching operations. Together, these solutions form the backbone of TRUMPF’s “Smart Factory” vision, in which uptime, precision, and efficient material use are maximized through automation and connectivity.
In 2023, TRUMPF introduced “Pay-per-Part,” a usage-based Equipment-as-a-Service (EaaS) model built around its TruLaser Center 7030. Rather than purchasing or leasing the machine, customers pay only for each finished sheet metal part produced. The model includes remote programming, monitoring, and maintenance, delivered by TRUMPF. Customers gain access to high-end automation without the capital outlay or added labor requirements, while TRUMPF benefits from recurring service revenue and data-driven customer insights. Currently, this offering is limited to select European markets, making it an early but important signal of how HaaS/EaaS models are entering heavy industry.
“With our pay-per-part business model, we are focusing on our customers’ needs like never before,” says Stephan Mayer, CEO for Machine Tools at TRUMPF. “We are helping them combat the shortage of skilled workers in industrial manufacturing and providing them with even more add-on services with which to boost their productivity and competitiveness.”
ButterflyMX
ButterflyMX builds cloud-connected access control systems that simplify property entry for residents, visitors, and building staff. The company’s hardware portfolio includes video intercom panels, access keypads, elevator controls, package room technology, smart locks, and security cameras. These devices connect to a unified cloud platform that enables mobile credentials, guest access, live video, audit trails, and integrations with major property-management systems. Residents interact through a smartphone app, while managers use a centralized dashboard to monitor entry activity, manage permissions, and streamline operations across single buildings or entire portfolios.
The company operates under a hybrid CapEx + SaaS commercial model. Customers purchase and install hardware as a one-time capital expense. Ongoing value comes through a subscription to the ButterflyMX cloud platform, typically billed annually or monthly on a per-unit or per-building basis. This subscription covers remote access features, integrations, cloud storage, system updates, and support. The model creates predictable recurring revenue while giving property teams a scalable, software-managed access infrastructure that doesn’t require on-site servers or manual credential management.
Fourier
Fourier is a global robotics company developing intelligent humanoid and rehabilitation robots for real-world applications, from mobility assistance to industrial tasks. Its GRx humanoid series (GR-1 and GR-2) feature human-like dexterity, full-body motion control, and advanced vision systems using 3D occupancy mapping and transformer-based environmental perception. On the medical side, Fourier Rehab offers robotic solutions like the ArmMotus and ExoMotus for neurorehabilitation. The robots are equipped with proprietary FSA actuators, AI vision, and tactile sensors to support everything from upper-limb therapy to autonomous warehouse navigation.
Fourier offers a flexible mix of direct sales and subscription-based pricing depending on the application and customer segment. For GRx humanoids, pricing is largely CapEx-driven, aimed at research labs, developers, and enterprises integrating robotics into real-world workflows. However, in the rehabilitation sector, Fourier Rehab leans into a hardware-as-a-service (HaaS) model, bundling equipment with ongoing support, software updates, and clinical guidance. This hybrid approach—part CapEx, part technology-as-a-service—makes robotics more financially accessible to hospitals and R&D partners while allowing Fourier to evolve its systems through usage-driven data collection and continuous improvement.
Hurco
Hurco builds CNC (computer numerical control) machines for manufacturers that need to move quickly and handle a wide range of part designs—especially job shops and short-run production teams. Its product line includes vertical and horizontal machining centers, 5-axis milling machines, and CNC lathes, all powered by Hurco’s proprietary WinMax control system. This intuitive software supports both traditional G-code programming and conversational programming, making it easier for operators to run complex parts, import 3D CAD models, and optimize motion control through features like UltiMotion. For shops aiming to automate without adding complexity, Hurco also offers ProCobots: robotic automation kits that handle loading and unloading tasks and are controlled directly through the CNC interface.
While customers typically purchase the machines outright, Hurco layers on recurring revenue through software subscriptions, cloud-based programming tools, and remote support. This hybrid sales model gives manufacturers full hardware ownership while allowing them to scale into automation gradually, using optional services like Automation Job Manager and remote diagnostics. The company’s value proposition centers on accessibility: lowering the barrier to entry for advanced automation without requiring large upfront commitments or specialist staff. Though it’s not a pure hardware-as-a-service (HaaS) model, the offering reflects a shift toward managed flexibility, removing technical friction while preserving financial control.
Advanced Construction Robotics
Advanced Construction Robotics (ACR) is reshaping heavy civil construction with field-deployable robots that automate some of the industry’s most repetitive and accident-prone tasks. ACR’s flagship robot, TyBOT, is an autonomous rebar-tying robot that operates on a gantry system to traverse the screed rail on bridge decks, autonomously locating and tying rebar intersections with speed and precision (up to 1,200 ties per hour). ACR’s BOTS Connect platform complements TyBOT by providing real-time productivity data and insights that help contractors plan, monitor, and optimize field operations. TyBOT’s counterpart, IronBOT, lifts, carries, and places rebar, reducing manual lifting and enhancing safety while accelerating bridge deck construction. Together, these robots deliver 50% schedule savings and improve the well-being of crews.
ACR’s sales model combines capital equipment with software services. Contractors purchase TyBOT (typically around $425,000) to deploy on projects, while the accompanying BOTS Connect subscription provides utilization tracking and reporting tools to measure performance and inform decision-making. This model empowers contractors to own their robotics fleet while maintaining real-time insights into productivity and ROI. Currently, IronBOT is being offered as Robot-as-a-Service (RaaS) as the company continues to make improvements for a commercially available product targeted for January of 2027.