Stretch Debuts in Europe at Otto Group

Summary

The auto group partners with Boston Dynamics to revolutionize logistics with Stretch, a mobile robot that unloads containers and trailers. Autonomous and self-sufficient, Stretch enhances warehouse efficiency and safety by handling labor-intensive tasks. It also improves operational productivity, with its advanced perception system sorting boxes onto conveyors. The auto group plans to expand this technology across EU sites, focusing on health, safety, and energy savings.

Takeaways

• 🤖 The auto group is shaping the future of logistics, with Stretch robots playing a key role in warehouse automation.
• 💡 Stretch, developed by Boston Dynamics, is the first robot implemented in their warehouses, enhancing operational efficiency.
• 📦 Stretch is a mobile case-handling robot that autonomously unloads containers and trailers without needing external power.
• 🛠️ The robot's advanced perception system allows it to identify and handle boxes, placing them on conveyors for further processing.
• 🚚 Stretch helps relieve labor-intensive tasks in warehouses, allowing employees to focus on other important work.
• 🛡️ Workplace safety is a key benefit, as Stretch keeps operators out of hazardous environments such as hot or cold containers.
• 📜 New EU laws are focusing on worker safety, particularly in limiting exposure to extreme conditions, making robots like Stretch essential.
• 🔄 Stretch can handle various types of boxes, including damaged ones, ensuring operational flexibility.
• 🏭 The installation process of Stretch is quick, with robots fully operational in just a few days after delivery.
• 🔍 The Spot robot is also being used by the auto group for additional tasks like detecting air pressure leaks, improving worker safety and efficiency.

Q & A

What is the main goal of implementing Stretch in the auto group's warehouses?

The main goal is to strengthen logistics processes by increasing operational efficiency and making warehouse work more attractive through technological innovations and automation.

What is the significance of being the first company to implement Stretch?

It signifies that the auto group is on the right path and highlights the strategic partnership's power between Boston Dynamics and the auto group.

How does Stretch operate within a warehouse?

Stretch is a mobile case handling robot that unloads sea containers and trailers with floor-loaded boxes. It operates independently without needing to be connected to power or tethered to any air lines.

What is the process to start a workflow with Stretch?

An operator drives the robot into place, goes to an operator tablet, presses play, and Stretch handles the rest of the workflow.

How does Stretch's performance compare to the auto group's initial assumptions?

Stretch has outperformed the auto group's initial assumptions in terms of performance and productivity within the first weeks of operation.

What benefits does Stretch provide in terms of health and workplace safety?

Stretch keeps operators out of dark, cold, or hot containers, which is important as the EU is passing laws to protect workers from working in such environments for extended periods.

How does Stretch handle the orientation of cases on the conveyor belt?

Stretch picks a case and places it on the conveyor belt so that the labels are always facing sideways, which is crucial for the auto group's two-sided camera system and downstream automation.

What types of boxes can Stretch handle?

Stretch can handle brown and graphical boxes, mixed two containers, and cases that are slightly damaged. It can also pick cases from the side for better suction and handling of heavy cases.

What is the typical installation process for Stretch?

The installation process is designed for ease, with robots being delivered to a site and operational within a few days.

How does the auto group's workforce perceive the introduction of Stretch?

The workers are well informed about the robots and their capabilities, and they are excited to start using them.

What is the expected impact of Stretch during peak season?

Stretch's reliability and predictability will help the auto group deal with fluctuating volumes and maintain flexibility during peak season.