Zalando puts logistics robot TORU to work in the coming months. At the warehouse in Erfurt, Germany, the robot helps with order picking.
Zalando is testing the robot, which was developed by startup Magazino, until the end of May. The first orders have already been processed, the company writes in a press release.
Unlike other robot technologies, which can only move entire load carriers such as pallets or boxes, the TORU robot has intelligent camera technology that allows it to detect, grab and transport individual objects. The robot can pick shoe boxes and clothing for Zalando, storing the items in the robot's internal storage area. During its journey through the warehouse, the robot can carry multiple items or orders.
Sensors ensure that the robot recognises obstacles on the road, including passing workers. This makes reflectors or markings on the floor unnecessary.
Autonomous picking robot
"We are currently testing how we can use Toru as an autonomous picking robot and integrate it into existing processes," says Carl-Friedrich zu Knyphausen, head of logistics development.
Investment in Magazino
Zalando invested in startup Magazino at the end of March. "Our investment in Magazino gives us access to an industry-leading technology that is highly compatible with our existing infrastructure and can be flexibly deployed to support employees in our distribution centres," David Schroeder, Senior Vice President Convenience at Zalando said of the investment at the time.
