Amazon has introduced Vulcan, an advanced warehouse robot equipped with a sense of touch, marking a significant advancement in robotic automation. Vulcan is designed to assist in item picking and stowing tasks traditionally handled by humans, aiming to improve efficiency and reduce physical strain on workers.
Vulcan utilizes a robotic arm with a spatula-like tool and suction mechanism, along with sensors on its joints to detect the edges and contours of items. Machine learning algorithms interpret these sensor signals, enabling the robot to make informed decisions during item retrieval. This tactile capability allows Vulcan to handle approximately 75% of items stored in Amazon’s warehouses. (WIRED)
Currently operational in Amazon fulfillment centers in Hamburg, Germany, and Spokane, Washington, Vulcan works alongside human employees, taking on tasks that involve reaching high or low shelves, thereby reducing the need for workers to perform physically demanding activities. Items that Vulcan cannot handle are redirected to human workers for processing.
While Vulcan enhances automation within Amazon’s operations, the company emphasizes that human oversight remains crucial, especially when robots encounter challenges. Amazon plans to integrate similar tactile sensing capabilities into other robots, potentially expanding their roles in manufacturing and fulfillment processes.
Source: (Wired)
