Innovation DHL tests delivery robot
BONN · It looks like a loyal dog following faithfully from behind but it’s a new innovation being tested by the Deutsche Post DHL Group. EffiBOT is its name.
The Deutsche Post DHL Group is working with French start-up firm Effidence to develop robotic technology for package deliveries. A prototype, the EffiBOT has already been tested at DHL, the automated trolley following pickers through the warehouse and performing most of the physical work. Taking it to the street presents new challenges because of the many kinds of surfaces and obstacles that it needs to tackle.
EffiBOT is equipped with sensors and cameras and with the push of a button, it follows behind like a well-behaved dog. When it encounters moving obstacles, it stops. Rain is also an element it has it contend with. Matthias Heutger, Senior Vice President of Strategy, Marketing and Innovation at DHL says it’s only the beginning for the era of robots in the logistics branch. Factories began using robotics already in the 1960’s but logistics work is much more complex, and it is much more difficult to replace human workers with automation.
Heutger doesn’t believe that the thinking robots will by and large replace people. “The job profile will change. We see the robot more as a collaborative partner,” he says. With that, he means a partner that can do the heavy lifting and work consistently without tiring for a 24-hour period. The use of robots is also an answer to an aging population. Studies report that there will be a deficit of 10 million workers in Germany in the next 15 years. Machines could help fill the gaps.
DP DHL is already testing a robot with two arms, which can imitate the motions made by humans. Another test project, “Augmented Reality” has been up and running for four months. Warehouse pickers wear special advanced smart glasses which show where each picked item needs to be placed on the trolley. It allows a hands free system, working more quickly and accurately. (Orig. text: Ulla Thiede/ck)
