Underground autonomous robot system makes deliveries
Marie Donlon | January 03, 2024In what it claims is a world’s first, U.S. logistics firm Pipedream has developed an underground autonomous robot delivery system.
According to its developers, the underground logistics solution seeks to eliminate emissions and congestion issues that are characteristic of common delivery infrastructure. The company expects that the delivery of more than 95% of consumer products will now be low-cost, emission-free and congestion-less via the autonomous underground delivery system.
Source: Pipedream
The system is composed of totes for carrying the payload and an above-ground interface featuring temperature control that accommodates orders weighing up to 40 lb.
Additionally, the autonomous electric robot is capable of achieving speeds that exceed 40 mph along the underground infrastructure, which is composed of off-the-shelf pipes that form the rail network and features junctions designed for 90° turns.
“By bringing the delivery system underground and directly to the customer, Pipedream is showcasing the future of logistics technology that will not only bring added convenience to our residents and businesses but also reduce traffic, noise, and emissions from delivery vehicles on our roads," the company explained.
Already installed in Georgia, linking a shopping center in Peachtree Corners and Curiosity Labs, members of Curiosity Lab can order food from nearby restaurants or order convenience items and have them delivered by the robot.
As soon as a customer places an order, the Pipedream bot travels autonomously through the tunnel with household goods, food, groceries and packages.
To see how the robot navigates the tunnels to make autonomous deliveries, watch the accompanying video that appears courtesy of Pipedream.