DHL Supply Chain, a global leader in contract logistics, uses a variety of robots to solve challenges inside warehouses. Most notably, it uses autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) from Locus Robotics and the Stretch trailer unloading system from Boston Dynamics. DHL conducts extensive tests on a variety of other robots, but only a small fraction successfully pass these rigorous pilots.

DHL recently announced its partnership with Robust AI, a startup founded by Rodney Brooks, Henrik Christensen, and Anthony Jules. Robust AI introduced its Carter AMR in 2022 and quickly landed a commercial deal with DHL. The companies met at RoboBusiness 2022, an event produced by The Robot Report and parent company WTWH Media.

DHL Supply Chain has partnered with Robust AI to develop its autonomous mobile robot, Carter. Robust AI and DHL plan an initial deployment of Carter for later in 2024. The robots will be able to handle a range of tasks, starting with optimizing the picking process. Carter also features 20 onboard cameras to enable it to perform other tasks in the future.

Sally Miller, chief information officer and global digital transformation officer at DHL Supply Chain, said Robust AI is the DHL’s fourth strategic partner in robotics.

“While there are other collaborative robots like Carter that have been developed, some of which we use in our warehouses, Carter differs with its human-centric design, dynamic coordination, and no-code interface,” she said. “Carter thrives in dynamic environments where workflows change frequently due to seasonality, promotions, or product variations. Carter’s flexible and relatively affordable nature makes it accessible to a wider range of warehouses compared to large-scale automation systems."

For any robotics startup, securing a deal with DHL is a significant achievement, validating its technology and opening doors to broader market opportunities. The partnership gives Robust AI a crucial opportunity for growth and bolsters its credibility and potential for future success.

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