Artificial Intelligence Takes Center Stage As Hestus Launches Groundbreaking Cad Copilot

Hestus, a startup co-founded by former SpaceRyde CEO Sohrab Haghighat, has secured $1.5 million in funding to develop an AI-powered copilot for computer-aided design (CAD) software. This innovative technology aims to transform the way mechanical engineers work, promising to significantly reduce time spent on redesigning components and increase productivity.

The platform will offer design and manufacturability suggestions, empowering engineers to automate repetitive tasks and rapidly adjust to design changes. For instance, when designing a robotic arm to accommodate higher loads, the AI copilot would suggest stronger bolts and ensure mating holes for optimal alignment. This level of precision is particularly crucial in the space sector, where hardware development can be expensive and mistake-prone.

“Harnessing the power of AI, we’re helping engineers build better products faster without sacrificing quality,” Haghighat explained. “Our platform empowers teams to work more efficiently, focusing on the small but essential details that make all the difference.”

Hestus was established in 2024 by Haghighat and Kevin Chu, a former Cruise director of autonomous engineering. The idea for an AI copilot for CAD arose from discussions between Chu and Haghighat, who recognized the potential benefits for SpaceRyde, the Canadian launch startup that filed for bankruptcy in 2023.

The seed funding round was led by Liquid2 and Rock Yard Ventures, with additional support provided by Y Combinator, Cruise, Kyle Vogt, Pebble Technology Corp.’s Eric Migicovsky, and Benjamin Bryant. Rock Yard Ventures general partner Daniel Dart praised Hestus for its unique blend of expertise, stating, “We believe Hestus is the first team to create something that can truly 100x the output capabilities for engineers everywhere.”

Hestus has already released its first product, Sketch Helper for Fusion 360, and plans to host a hackathon in April, where mechanical engineers will gather to test the software and compete to see how they can work faster with AI. With this innovative technology on the horizon, Hestus is poised to revolutionize the engineering industry, making it easier for teams to build better products without sacrificing quality or increasing costs.

Haghighat’s vision for Hestus is clear: to empower engineers to focus on high-level design decisions while leveraging AI to handle the tedious and time-consuming tasks. As the company continues to grow and develop its technology, one thing is certain – the future of engineering has never looked brighter.