Mercedes-Benz factory will test robots instead of humans in tasks

Automobile manufacturer Mercedes-Benz has entered into a partnership with robot manufacturer Apptronik. Initially on an experimental basis, the company Humanoid machines will be used in certain assembly processes of automobiles.

Robots need to be adopted to perform “physically demanding, repetitive and monotonous tasks.” In addition to speeding up processes and reducing costs, which are the arguments used in this type of change, the company also claims that: It’s getting harder to find “trustworthy employees” for these sectors.

We are excited to collaborate @MercedesBenz Empowering staff in production facilities with cutting-edge technology that automates physically demanding, repetitive and tedious tasks that people don’t want to do. Stay tuned, this is just the beginning. pic.twitter.com/jIXj8uGTKh

—Apptronik (@Apptronik) March 15, 2024

First phase of the agreement between Apptronik and Mercedes-Benz Identify possible uses of such equipmentand only later do they agree to adopt or not adopt robots. There is no deadline yet for the replacement process to actually begin.

Processes mentioned as examples include: take components to the production line, Where human workers will continue to work, inspect the parts, and pass the results to the next step of the assembly.

Mercedes-Benz chose humanoid robots instead of fully automating the process because This allows the company to maintain the existing factory designdesigned for people.

According to the automaker, other organizations will repeat the same model in the coming months and years.

Humanoid robot from Mercedes-Benz

The person chosen to work in the factories of the German automobile manufacturer is Apollon. This is the humanoid robot from Apptronik, one of the most advanced companies in developing such androids for heavy missions and has even developed machines like Valkyrie for NASA.

With Apollo, which is 1.73 meters tall and weighs 72 kg, can lift up to 25 kg.. he has one Design considered “user friendly”It has the ability to integrate spaces collaboratively with human employees.

Inside, he works using artificial intelligence (AI) systems that make him more efficient at every task performed. However, your entire command depends on the missions previously planned by the company.

Companies such as Tesla and Xiaomi are currently developing humanoid robots for similar purposes. But this industry is still years away from starting to establish itself.