The bipedal Digits warehouse robot has an improved version, according to Agility Robotics. The updated version adds a head (with LED animated eyes) and hands, and it can undertake a wider variety of demanding workloads than its predecessor. It is designed to take on repetitive or injury-risking jobs.
The new Digits robot outperforms the older one in terms of “reaching higher, carrying more, lasting longer, charging faster, and conveying intent.” Additionally, it has sharper perception, is better at interacting with humans and other robots, and is better at managing its environment. The robot, which stands 5’9″ tall and weighs around 140 lbs, also has newly created “end effectors” (hands) that allow it reach high or low places and pick up or store plastic totes or other items common in shipping facilities.
The company adds in a press statement that “warehouse work includes many process-automated, repetitive tasks that all too often lead to injury and high turnover, leaving costly gaps in the workforce that snarl supply chains.” The idea is that a humanoid robot can best replicate the tasks usually assigned to humans. “While automation can help fill those gaps, existing automation solutions are typically single purpose, meaning companies have to onboard and maintain dozens of different solutions for different tasks, or they require expensive customization to the workspace.”
Automation can spare human workers from the most taxing tasks, but it isn’t always that neat: Machines are just as likely to completely eliminate human occupations. In addition, the robot appears at a time when the top firms in the world have been laying off thousands of workers; it is difficult not to view these robots with as much cynicism as amazement.
This week at ProMat Chicago, Agility Robotics will present fully autonomous live demos of Digits. (March 20th to 23rd). Additionally, the business is accepting applications for unfilled positions in its Agility Partner Program (APP), which will be the first sole location to buy them. The first units are anticipated to ship to APP participants in early 2024; pricing has not yet been disclosed. The business plans to make its product generally available by 2025.
