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Boston Dynamics Tests Conveyor Accessory Allowing Spot Robot to Unload Packages at Doorsteps
Boston Dynamics is testing a conveyor-belt accessory allowing its Spot robot to carry and autonomously unload packages at doorsteps. The Verge reported the company is in talks with logistics firms for last-mile testing. Spot costs $74,500 and has prior uses in inspections and rescue.
Jul 14, 1:12 PM·1m read1 source
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Boston Dynamics is testing a conveyor-belt accessory that allows its Spot robot to carry packages from a vehicle and autonomously unload them on a customer’s doorstep. The Verge reported that the company is already in talks with major logistics companies about testing Spot for last-mile delivery. A demo video shows a driver unloading packages onto Spot for distribution.
Spot costs $74,500. The robot has previously performed routine factory inspections, patrolled the ruins of Pompeii, and helped comb through rubble in search-and-rescue operations. Boston Dynamics’ current goal is to move from these demonstrations to a full pilot project.
The robot’s ability to navigate uneven terrain could suit it for suburban neighborhoods where paths to front doors are often obstructed. “For every three packages delivered via Spot, we think we can add another package to the van,” Paige Miller, Boston Dynamics senior staff product manager for Spot, stated.
