Otto Group debuts Boston Dynamics Stretch robot in Europe

German retailer Otto Group has deployed the Stretch mobile case-handling robot, according to Boston Dynamics. The company said this deployment marks a dual milestone: It is the first use of Stretch in Europe and the first large-scale collaboration between Stretch and Spot, another Boston Dynamics robot, within a single enterprise.

The partners said the robots will improve the retailer‘s logistics processes by boosting efficiency, safety, and employee satisfaction.

Stretch is designed to tackle the physically demanding task of unloading containers and trailers. Equipped with an advanced perception system, the mobile manipulator can autonomously identify and place boxes onto conveyor belts, streamlining the inbound workflow.

“The Otto Group is actively shaping the future of logistics on an ongoing basis, and being the first company to implement Stretch in our warehouse proves that we are on the right path,” said Tomek Pauer, a project manager in the Supply Chain Management arm of the Otto Group.

Spot autonomously patrols at Otto Group

Meanwhile, the four-legged Spot robot uses its array of sensors to add versatility to Otto Group’s operations. It can detect acoustic anomalies, thermal variations, and even visual irregularities, potentially reducing unplanned downtime and energy expenditure, said Boston Dynamics.

Currently, Spot is adept at identifying air pressure leaks, and future applications might include detecting conveyor vibrations for preventative maintenance.

Spot supports predictive maintenance efforts at three sites by collecting thermal images, conducting acoustic vibration detection, reading analog gauges, and detecting ultrasonic air and gas leaks. Boston Dynamics added that the robot can also autonomously run missions such as monitoring fire exits and identifying small structural changes in storage racks.

“Spot is supporting us with different maintenance and security tasks,” said Pauer. “It improves worker safety, reduces unplanned downtime, and saves energy costs.”

With the peak inbound season fast approaching, Otto Group said it values the reliability and predictability of these robots. Stretch and Spot offer help for handling fluctuating order volumes, alleviating physically strenuous tasks for employees, and proactively detecting potential issues within the warehouse.

Spot robot equipped with an array of sensors walks through a manufacturing facility. It is performing similar duties at Otto Group.
Spot can provide remote sensing of thermal, acoustic and visual feedback to facilities teams. | Credit: Boston Dynamics

Boston Dynamics to keep existing HQ, partner with TRI

Earlier this month, Boston Dynamics reportedly renewed its research park lease and remain in Waltham, Mass. R.W. Holmes Commercial Real Estate, which represented the landlord, Hillside Associates, confirmed that the company will stay in its 23,000 sq. ft. lease space.

“This lease renewal reaffirms Waltham Research Park’s position as a prime location for pioneering organizations like Boston Dynamics,” said Arthur Amadei, senior vice president at R.W. Holmes. “We are thrilled to have facilitated this lease renewal and to see Boston Dynamics continue advancing their mission to push the boundaries of robotics and technology in the Greater Boston area.”

Boston Dynamics also announced a partnership with the Toyota Research Institute (TRI) to advance robotics and artificial intelligence research. Scott Kuindersma, director of robotics research at Boston Dynamics, and Russ Tedrake, vice president of robotics research at TRI, spoke with The Robot Report Podcast.


 

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Written by

Automated Warehouse Staff