Pet owners are no different than other supply chain customers — they need products of all sizes to be delivered on time and intact. The MassRobotics consortium and online pet-supply retailer Chewy Inc. yesterday announced the Chewy Autonomous Mobile Picking, or CHAMP, Challenge.
The challenge invites robotics developers and innovators to design an automated system that can efficiently grasp, lift, and place heavy and awkwardly shaped items in confined warehouse spaces. It focuses on the need to move items such as bags, boxes, and pails of dog food and cat litter.
The stated goal of the CHAMP Challenge is to improve operational efficiency, support worker safety, and advance the robotic handling systems available in modern logistics. It is offering a prize pool of $30,000 and the chance to collaborate further with Chewy.
CHAMP Challenge addresses complex needs
The CHAMP Challenge requires robots to:
● Grasp and lift various items from standard pallets
● Place items accurately into open cardboard boxes, maximizing space use and ensuring stability
● Operate autonomously and collaborate safely with human employees in close quarters
The CHAMP Challenge is open for applications. An information session takes place on Dec. 4, in which participants can learn more about requirements, application details, and key dates.
Applications will close on Dec. 16. Finalists will have the opportunity to demonstrate their robotic solutions in mid-2025.
For more information about the CHAMP Challenge, eligibility requirements, and application details, visit https://www.massrobotics.org/the-chewy-autonomous-mobile-picking-champ-challenge or contact MassRobotics at info@massrobotics.org.
Chewy is committed to innovation
“At Chewy, innovation isn’t just a goal — it’s in our DNA,” added Tim Foley, senior director of fulfillment technology at Chewy. “We’re embarking on a transformative journey to reshape warehouse operations while creating a better experience for our customers and team members alike.”
The company, which has dual headquarters in Boston and Plantation, Fla., said it is “the preeminent online source for pet products, supplies and prescriptions.” Chewy partners with about 3,500 brands in the pet industry, and it offers its own private brands.
Through its websites and mobile applications, Chewy offers approximately 115,000 products and service offerings. The company has automated fulfillment centers in Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Nevada, and Missouri.
Chewy has completely eliminated manual box packing, according to The Wall Street Journal. However, its workers still lift and move heavy items, providing opportunities for automation.
MassRobotics based in Boston, working with the world
“We are thrilled to partner with Chewy on the CHAMP Challenge, inviting innovators to address one of the most complex challenges in robotics today,” stated Tom Ryden, executive director of MassRobotics. “By bringing together fresh perspectives and advanced technology, we aim to inspire solutions that will push the boundaries of automation in warehouse logistics.”
MassRobotics said it is the largest independent non-profit hub dedicated to accelerating innovation and adoption in the field of robotics. The organization provides entrepreneurs and startups with workspace and resources to develop, prototype, test and commercialize their products.
Boston-based MassRobotics noted that it is working with startups, academia, industry, and governments both domestically and internationally. It is a strategic partner of WTWH Media, which produces Automated Warehouse, The Robot Report, and the Robotics Summit & Expo.
