In a groundbreaking move that signals a new era in logistics automation, GXO Logistics and Agility Robotics have joined forces to introduce humanoid robots into real-world warehouse environments. This partnership, formalized through a multi-year agreement, represents a significant leap forward in the integration of advanced robotics technology within the logistics sector.
The collaboration between GXO, the world's largest pure-play contract logistics provider, and Agility Robotics, the creator of the leading bipedal Mobile Manipulation Robot Digit®, builds upon the success of their proof-of-concept pilot conducted in late 2023. This initiative not only marks the industry's first formal commercial deployment of humanoid robots but also introduces the first Robots-as-a-Service, RaaS, model for humanoid robot deployment.
At the heart of this innovative partnership is Digit, a multi-purpose, human-centric robot designed specifically for logistics work. Digit's unique capabilities allow it to operate safely in human spaces and assist with a variety of repetitive tasks. The deployment of Digit robots is complemented by Agility Arc™, Agility's cloud automation platform, which streamlines the entire deployment lifecycle. This includes facility mapping, workflow definition, operational management, and troubleshooting, ensuring seamless integration of the robots into existing logistics operations.
The initial deployment of Digit robots is taking place at a SPANX facility, where they are being integrated with existing automation systems, including Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). Building on the success of the previous pilot, Digit robots are now assisting with repetitive tasks such as moving totes from collaborative robots, cobots, and placing them onto conveyors. This entire process is orchestrated through the Agility Arc platform, demonstrating the potential for humanoid robots to work in harmony with other automated systems and human workers.
The RaaS agreement between GXO and Agility Robotics goes beyond the current deployment, with both companies committed to exploring additional use cases and scaling Digit usage to meet growing demand. This flexible approach allows for continuous innovation and adaptation to evolving logistics needs. The partnership exemplifies GXO's commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance operational efficiency while improving the working environment for its employees.
The significance of this deployment has not gone unnoticed in the industry. Supply & Demand Chain Executive magazine (SDCE) recently recognized GXO as the overall winner of the 2024 Top Supply Chain Projects awards for its groundbreaking pilot with Digit. This accolade underscores the transformative potential of humanoid robots in logistics and supply chain management.
As the logistics industry continues to evolve, the partnership between GXO and Agility Robotics sets a new standard for automation and efficiency. By successfully deploying humanoid robots in a live warehouse environment, these companies are paving the way for widespread adoption of advanced robotics in logistics operations. This milestone not only demonstrates the practical applications of humanoid robots but also highlights the potential for RaaS models to make advanced automation more accessible to a wider range of businesses in the logistics sector.
