Robot Roundup Volume 7

Your weekly robotics newsletter for all news and updates in the industry!

New Kids On The Block

Mytra has developed a revolutionary approach to warehouse automation. By utilizing AI and robotics, they've created a 3D storage and retrieval system that significantly enhances space efficiency and operational flexibility. This innovative solution addresses the persistent challenges of material movement within warehouses.

Mytra's system comprises a modular grid structure and autonomous robots capable of navigating and manipulating items within the grid. This approach eliminates the need for complex, static infrastructure, making it adaptable to various warehouse configurations. The robots' ability to collaborate and avoid collisions further enhances the system's efficiency.

With substantial funding and a team of experienced engineers, Mytra is poised to disrupt the warehouse automation industry. Their focus on practical problem-solving aligns with the industry's need for flexible and scalable solutions.

Mytra have industry veterans from Tesla and Rivian among their ranks, with former Tesla head Chris Walti leading the charge. Speaking to TechCrunch , Walti said; “Tesla was struggling to get our automation systems up and running, so we ended up setting up a manual warehouse as a pressure release valve for the manufacturing system. About six months later, they were like, ‘Can you just take over the automation system that’s causing a lot of these challenges?’”

Kroger Teams Up With Ocado

Grocery retailer Kroger has deepened its collaboration with technology provider Ocado Group to enhance its warehouse operations. This partnership will see the deployment of Ocado's cutting-edge automation technology across multiple Kroger facilities.

Central to this development is Ocado's 'Re:imagined' line of products, featuring advanced robotics and machine learning. The On-Grid Robotic Pick, equipped with sophisticated sensing capabilities, is a key component, automating the picking process. Additionally, the Automated Frameload system streamlines order assembly and preparation for dispatch.

This technological integration aims to significantly boost efficiency, reduce labour costs, and optimize warehouse operations for Kroger. The partnership underscores the growing trend towards automation in the retail industry, as companies strive to meet increasing customer demands while navigating operational challenges.

Tim Steiner , CEO of Ocado Group, said “We are delivering a step-change in warehouse automation and new levels of efficiency to our partners as global supply chains are under significant pressure to manage higher volumes and greater complexity, as well as challenges in labour cost and availability.

Vayu Robotics: Revolutionizing Last-Mile Delivery

The burgeoning e-commerce sector has spurred innovation in logistics. Vayu Robotics is at the forefront of this revolution, offering a novel solution to the challenges of last-mile delivery.

The company has developed autonomous delivery robots capable of carrying substantial loads and navigating urban environments. Crucially, these robots are significantly more affordable than previous iterations, making them a viable option for widespread deployment. By automating the delivery process, Vayu promises to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and minimize environmental impact.

While facing competition from other robotics companies, Vayu's unique value proposition lies in its larger robot size, enabling curb side delivery and the ability for the robot to independently unload packages. With substantial funding and early market traction, Vayu is well-positioned to disrupt the logistics industry and redefine the future of e-commerce delivery.

Vayu's CEO Anand Gopalan said; “The unique set of technologies we have developed at Vayu have allowed us to solve problems that have plagued delivery robots over the past decade, and finally create a solution that can actually be deployed at scale and enable the cheap transport of goods everywhere”

AI-Powered Warehouse Automation: VersaTile's Innovative Solution

VersaTile Automation has raised ￡8 million in Seed investment from Tharsus . They have unveiled a ground-breaking modular automation system designed to transform warehouse operations. The system utilizes an intelligent floor capable of dynamically moving products, significantly enhancing efficiency and space utilization.

By employing AI, VersaTile's technology offers real-time adaptability and eliminates the need for static infrastructure. This innovative approach has already attracted the attention of major players, with Wincanton becoming the first customer to implement the system.

VersaTile's solution addresses the pressing challenges faced by the logistics sector, including labour shortages and the need for rapid order fulfilment. The company's focus on automation and efficiency aligns with broader industry trends towards digital transformation and sustainable operations. With its potential to create skilled jobs in regions often overlooked for economic development, VersaTile is not only a technological pioneer but also a catalyst for regional growth.

VersaTile is led by Tharsus boss Joni Rautavuori and is now looking to the ecommerce, retail and grocery sectors, where it hopes to shake-up warehousing operations. Joni said speaking to Business Live; "Supply chains are under tremendous pressure to meet ever changing customer demands for shorter delivery times, higher flexibility and lower cost in a sustainable manner. Lack of the productivity development and availability of labour is adding to this challenge particularly in UK.

Thanks for reading into Volume 7. I'm always on the lookout for features and would love to have you on to share insight! Please get in touch at [email protected]!

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