Boston Dynamics stretches out at DHL

Stretch. © Boston Dynamics.

All critics agree that Stretch, Boston Dynamics’s first commercial robot launched last year, is far less fetching and fun than Spot the canine quadruped or Atlas the anthropomorphic biped. However, the recent purchase of Stretch robots by DHL, the delivery company, shows that they are attracting genuine business interest. Designed to transport and handle boxes in warehouses and distribution centers, Stretch can, for example, unload a truck, depalletize a delivery, move boxes, and assemble orders. The robot weighs 1,200 kg and consists of a wheeled base carrying a robust robotic arm with 7 degrees of freedom, capable of lifting a maximum load of 23 kg (50 pounds). The “perception mast”, a side-mounted pylon, supports the essential sensors.

The contract, worth US $15 million, provides for the delivery of a fleet of robots (exact number unknown) “to multiple DHL warehouses throughout North America over the next three years” where they will begin unloading trucks, according to a company statement. In response to concerns that jobs are evaporating due to robotization, logistics companies point out that they are facing a massive labor shortage. These jobs, which are often poorly paid and physically demanding, can’t seem to attract applicants. The US transportation and logistics industry saw a record 490,000 unfilled positions last year.

⇨ The Verge, James Vincent, “Boston Dynamics’ most boring robot is getting a sensible job unloading trucks.”

2022-01-26