Automobile manufacturing plants continue to automate their operational processes. Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada is gearing up to introduce a humanoid robot named Digit, created by Agility Robotics, at its facility in Woodstock, Ontario, where Toyota RAV4 crossovers are assembled. This innovative move was reported by SlashGear.
While industrial robotic systems like welders or painters have been utilized in automotive manufacturing since the 1960s, the incorporation of bipedal humanoids marks a new phase of modernization. Initially, Toyota will deploy three robots of the seven outlined in the agreement. They will be involved in logistics, production, and supply chain management. The primary objective is to delegate routine and physically demanding tasks to machines, aiming to reduce employee injuries and free up workers for more complex duties.
Digit features a two-legged design with reverse-type joints, standing at approximately 175 centimeters tall, equipped with LED indicators in its head section for basic communication. With a set of sensors, Digit can autonomously navigate space, detect obstacles and individuals without the need for additional infrastructure like magnetic tapes on the floor. Besides moving on flat surfaces, the robot can ascend ramps and stairs and is capable of self-righting in case of a fall.
The utilization of humanoid systems is becoming increasingly popular among major corporations – Amazon and GXO Logistics have already implemented similar robots. Toyota and Agility Robotics plan to further explore the possibilities of leveraging artificial intelligence and advanced robotics in automotive plants.
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