Groceries on wheels: Dutch retailer Albert Heijin unveils autonomous delivery robot ‘Aitonomi’

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In a recent development, Dutch supermarket chain Albert Heijn has revealed its new delivery robot called ‘Aitonomi’ developed by Swiss company TeleRetail at the Digital Food 2019 conference.

Uses a virtual map for navigation!

According to the company, the robot will work with students as part of a pilot program at High Tech Campus Eindhoven throughout the summer. Visitors will be able to place their orders through the app at Albert Heijn’s AH to go store. Notably, the robot navigates itself using the virtual map and can be opened with the smartphone upon arrival.

Same technology as autonomous car

In this case, the robot comes equipped with sensors to make sure it doesn’t bump into any obstacles on the way.  Furthermore, the TeleRetail used the same technology and components in the robot that is used for autonomous cars from sponsors like German automotive supplier Bosch, chip maker Nvidia and lidar makers SICK. Albert Heijn commented, ‘This way, you can continue working undisturbed while lunch is arranged for you.”

Price expected to drop in future

The development of this delivery robot was partly funded by the ESA space agency. According to Torsten Scholl, CEO, the current prototype costs somewhere between €50,000 and €100,000 depending on the configuration but expected around €10,000 to €20,000 it is expected in the near future. Having said that, Albert Heijn has no plans as such to roll-out outside the campus grounds.

Stay tuned to Silicon Canals for more updates in the tech startup world.

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