Smarter robots are headed to Amazon’s warehouses
June 27, 2023
Amazon.com has begun adding Proteus industrial robots that carry packages in plastic bins to trucks on loading docks. The robots can distinguish between humans and inanimate objects as they navigate Amazon’s cavernous warehouses. Amazon is introducing Proteus and other smart robots onto its fulfillment center floors to automate its processes.
Amazon Robotics Banks on Kiva
Amazon Robotics has been taking advantage of its purchase of the Kiva company by improving its warehouse AI robot workers.
The Proteus model has been designed to intelligently move around a warehouse autonomously, similar to a robotic vacuum, but is able to also carry a cart of packages. Strides have been made to ensure safety, perception, and navigation properties are prioritized to make sure that Proteus does not interfere with human employees.
While traveling around a warehouse, Proteus fires a green beam of light to mark human employees and will stop as soon as it senses someone.
Amazon claims its goal is to create a safe and efficient working environment between people and robots where safety is a matter of critical concern.
Amazon Robotics’ future plans call for new AI technology that will be able to automatically scan packages and a robot named Cardinal that’s comprised of a large mechanical arm made to pick up and handle packages and put them in carts to reduce physical work for human employees.
Amazon states that they would never fully replace human employees with robots, but the company currently suffers from high amounts of layoffs.
Recent News
Premium and Healthier Food Options Gain Traction
As consumers become more mindful of their spending, the global sales of cooking ingredients and meals saw a notable increase of 4.4% in 2023, driven by inflation and higher commodity prices, according to Euromonitor International.
Dairy Manufacturers Inc. Issues Voluntary Recall of Baby Formula
In a significant move, Dairy Manufacturers Inc., a Texas-based company, has initiated a voluntary recall of several baby formula products after they were found to be noncompliant with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations.
Fitness Equipment to Become $18.4 Billion Market
The global fitness equipment market is projected to reach $18.4 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 3.02% from 2024 to 2033, according to Allied Market Research.
Walmart Ends Partnership With Capital One
Walmart has officially ended its consumer credit card agreement with Capital One, marking a significant shift in the retail giant’s financial partnerships.