In the field of automated logistics, Boston Dynamics’ four-legged robot Spot is showing new application potential. The company, known for its robotics, is currently testing a new conveyor belt attachment designed to allow Spot to automatically load packages from delivery vehicles and deliver them to customers' doorsteps, thereby reducing the physical burden on logistics and delivery personnel.
Although there are currently attempts to use wheeled robots or drones for automated delivery on the market, human delivery workers still have significant advantages in navigation and complex terrain handling for "last mile" delivery that requires crossing stairs or crossing complex road surfaces and other special environments. In order to solve this pain point, Boston Dynamics demonstrated in the demonstration video a collaborative model in which a delivery driver unloads packages onto the back of Spot, and then a robot dog completes the door-to-door delivery. In this way, Boston Dynamics explores how to improve delivery efficiency through automated equipment, thereby reflecting its commercial value of up to US$75,000 per unit.
Boston Dynamics stated that it has started negotiations with a number of large logistics companies to promote the testing of Spot in the "last mile" distribution solution and gradually shift its goal from early functional demonstrations to comprehensive pilot projects.
The reason why Spot is chosen as the delivery assistant is mainly due to its excellent environmental adaptability. The robot has the ability to flexibly travel on uneven terrain and avoid complex obstacles. It has been widely used in tasks such as routine factory inspections and patrolling the ruins of the ancient city of Pompeii in Italy. In addition, Spot's ability to traverse ruins demonstrated during search and rescue operations is also considered to be well adapted to the complex and disorderly environment of the suburbs. Even if there are many obstacles between the roadside and the gate, Spot can effectively deal with it.