Robotics
Auto Parts Assembler Orders 100 Autonomous Mobile Robots
The Hauler autonomous mobile robot is designed for interbuilding transport with a payload capacity of up to 660 pounds. Photo courtesy Cartken Inc.
TOKYO—Melco Mobility Solutions, a Japanese manufacturer of auto parts, air conditioners, lighting and other products, has ordered 100 autonomous mobile robots from U.S. start-up Cartken Inc.
The robots will be deployed throughout Melco’s industrial facilities in Japan to transport parts and assemblies to and from assembly lines. Specifically, Melco ordered Cartken’s Hauler robot—a larger, more rugged robot designed for interbuilding transport with a payload capacity of up to 660 pounds. The robot can autonomously navigate ramps and uneven ground in all weather conditions and offers flexibility in cargo design, allowing customization to suit a wide range of applications.
Melco is more than just a Cartken customer, it’s also a distributor of the company’s robots. Mitsubishi Electric, Melco’s parent company, is also an investor in Cartken.
Through Melco, Cartken’s robots are being used throughout Japan to deliver restaurant orders and groceries in urban areas. The robots are also being used at offices and industrial sites to deliver materials and documents.
With Melco’s help, Cartken’s machines became the first delivery robots in Japan to be authorized for autonomous driving on public roads at night. Additionally, Mitsubishi Electric worked with Cartken to integrate the robots with its elevator technology, enabling Cartken robots to operate autonomously across multiple floors in office buildings.Looking for quick answers on assembly and manufacturing topics? Try Ask ASM, our new smart AI search tool. Ask ASM
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