In a strategic collaboration, GXO, a major player in logistics, has teamed up with Apptronik, a top robot manufacturer, to explore how the Apollo humanoid robot can optimize warehouse operations. This partnership aims to harness Apollo’s advanced features to boost efficiency and safety across distribution centers.
Apollo sets itself apart with several key features. It operates on swappable batteries, offering the longest operational time among humanoid robots. With linear actuators mimicking human muscles, it boasts extensive mobility and dexterity. Standing 5’8″ tall and capable of carrying 55 pounds, Apollo is designed to work safely alongside humans, thanks to its unique force control architecture and flexible safety zone perimeter.
The partnership includes rigorous testing and evaluation of Apollo in lab settings to fine-tune Apptronik’s AI model before deploying the technology at a U.S. distribution center. Adrian Stoch, GXO’s Chief Automation Officer, highlights the potential of robotics like Apollo to reduce repetitive tasks, enhance workplace safety, and enable employees to focus on higher-value activities.
“We’re excited to partner with Apptronik to develop their AI-enabled humanoid robot. Apollo has great potential to add value throughout the distribution center, including the most labor-intensive operational processes,” said Adrian Stoch.
“These kinds of robotics reduce repetitive work and improve safety while freeing associates to focus on higher-value-added activities. As we progress on our R&D journey with Apptronik, we’ll also be evaluating its capability for other critical use cases along the way.”
GXO, a pioneer in warehouse automation and a frontrunner in AI-driven technology, has entered its second humanoid partnership with Apptronik. In 2023, GXO witnessed a substantial 50% annual increase in its total warehouse automation units. This growth was complemented by trials of diverse new hardware and software solutions, encompassing AI-powered robotics and autonomous vehicles.
“Our mission is to build versatile robots that can do work in real-world applications – from large, powerful movements like transporting boxes and totes to small, precise ones like picking individual items or scanning barcodes,” said Jeff Cardenas, co-founder & CEO of Apptronik.
“That’s why we’re committed to helping technology leader GXO optimize its logistics operations and create an even safer, more engaging workplace for its employees with the help of Apollo. The two phases of this R&D program represent essential steps toward the launch of an innovative scalable automation solution for GXO.”
Jeff Cardenas, CEO of Apptronik, emphasizes Apollo’s versatility and potential impact across various industries beyond logistics, including construction, manufacturing, retail, and healthcare. Apptronik envisions Apollo transforming work environments and addressing global challenges through innovative robotics solutions.
Apollo’s development builds upon Apptronik’s extensive experience, including contributions to NASA’s Valkyrie project. This background underscores Apollo’s robust design for real-world applications and scalability across diverse sectors.
In summary, the GXO-Apptronik partnership signifies a significant advancement in integrating advanced robotics into mainstream logistics operations. Apollo’s potential to redefine workplace dynamics through improved efficiency and safety aligns with both companies’ objectives of advancing automation technologies. As testing progresses and technology evolves, Apollo is poised to usher in a new era of human-robot collaboration, promising a future where robotics play a pivotal role in transforming industries and enhancing how we live and work.
