Mercedes-Benz Integrates AI and Humanoid Robots in Factory Operations

Mercedes-Benz takes stake in robotics maker Apptronik, tests robots in factories

BERLIN, March 18 (Reuters) - Mercedes-Benz (MBGn.DE), opens new tab is trialling using humanoid robots made by U.S.-based company Apptronik for tasks such as moving components to the production line or carrying out quality checks, the latest automaker to experiment with robots in manufacturing. The German company has invested a low double-digit million-euro sum in Apptronik, a Texas-based firm founded in 2016 that is racing with the likes of Tesla (TSLA.O), opens new tab and Nvidia-backed (NVDA.O), opens new tab Figure AI to scale up production of AI-powered human-like robots. A handful of Apptronik's "Apollo" robots have been trained for specific tasks within Mercedes-Benz's production process through so-called 'teleoperation', where the robot is operated remotely by humans and learns the tasks it performs, with the goal of eventually being able to repeat them autonomously. The carmaker is testing use of the robots at its Digital Factory Campus in Marienfelde, Berlin, and in Kecskemet, Hungary, and plans to bring them to other sites, production chief Joerg Burzer said in a roundtable with journalists in Berlin on Tuesday. "I'd like to see us find applications in areas where we face labour shortages - but of course first for the repetitive tasks, and then hazardous ones," Burzer added. "The cost will be decisive... when costs reach a two-digit thousand-dollar sum - which is absolutely possible - it will become very interesting," he said, without giving a timeframe or the current cost per robot. Carmakers including Honda, Hyundai, and BMW (BMWG.DE), opens new tab have experimented with humanoid robots to perform repetitive tasks that could be dangerous or tedious, though none has yet deployed them in manufacturing at large scale. Tesla CEO Elon Musk said last April he "guessed" the Tesla robot, called Optimus, could perform tasks in the factory by year-end, but has not since provided an update. Reporting by Victoria Waldersee. Editing by Mark Potter Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab Suggested Topics:DisruptedADAS, AV & SafetyPartnerships & M&ASustainable & EV Supply ChainEV Strategy Victoria Waldersee Thomson Reuters Autos correspondent in Germany, covering the industry's transition to electric vehicles. Previously reported on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the retail sector in South Asia, China and Europe, and wider general news. Formerly at YouGov and Economy, a charity working to produce accessible economics coverage.

Mercedes-Benz trains humanoid robot to aid workers in car making

Mercedes-Benz is testing the use of Apollo, a humanoid robot from Apptronik, in production. Mercedes-Benz is integrating humanoid robots and advanced artificial intelligence (AI) across its manufacturing lines in the U.S. and Europe. This move aims to streamline production, boost efficiency, and cut costs. The carmaker is testing Apollo, a bipedal humanoid robot developed by American robotics firm Apptronik, at its Digital Factory Campus in Berlin, Germany. Unlike conventional industrial robots, which are stationary and programmed for repetitive tasks, Apollo can navigate factory floors and assist workers with logistics. The robot is designed to transport components between workstations, reducing strain on human employees and accelerating workflows.

Mercedes-Benz AI and Humanoid Robots Revolutionize Berlin Factory

Artificial intelligence (AI) and humanoid robots are transforming industries worldwide, and the automotive sector is no exception. Mercedes-Benz is at the forefront of this revolution, integrating innovative AI technologies and humanoid robotics into its production processes. These advancements are not only enhancing efficiency but also redefining sustainability and innovation in manufacturing. At the Mercedes-Benz Digital Factory Campus (MBDFC) in Berlin-Marienfelde, AI-powered tools like the MO360LLM Suite and Digital Factory Chatbot Ecosystem are streamlining operations. The MO360LLM Suite leverages natural language processing and machine learning to optimize production planning, resource allocation, and supply chain management. By analyzing vast amounts of data and providing actionable insights, this suite enables faster decision-making and improves overall operational efficiency. Meanwhile, the Digital Factory Chatbot Ecosystem assists seamless communication between humans and machines, allowing workers to access real-time information and guidance through intuitive conversational interfaces. This ecosystem breaks down barriers between different departments and systems, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing across the organization. Humanoid robots such as Apptronik's Apollo are taking on repetitive and physically demanding tasks, allowing human workers to focus on more complex and creative responsibilities. These robots are designed to work alongside humans, adapting to their needs and preferences. With advanced sensors, dexterity, and learning capabilities, humanoid robots can handle a wide range of tasks, from material handling and assembly to quality control and maintenance. The integration of AI and humanoid robots is not only boosting productivity but also promoting a safer and more ergonomic work environment. By automating strenuous and hazardous tasks, these technologies reduce the risk of workplace injuries and improve overall employee well-being. Moreover, the collaboration between humans and machines fosters a culture of continuous learning and innovation, as workers gain new skills and insights from their robotic counterparts. Mercedes-Benz's investment in AI and humanoid robotics reflects its commitment to innovation, with a low double-digit-million-euro investment into Apptronik. While these technologies are currently being tested and refined at the Berlin-Marienfelde facility, they are expected to be rolled out across the company's global production network in the near future. The first applications of these advancements will likely be seen in the production of the new Mercedes-Benz CLA and high-performance electric motors, starting next year. The CLA, a compact luxury sedan, will serve as a showcase for the company's AI-driven manufacturing capabilities, demonstrating how these technologies can enhance quality, customization, and time-to-market. The production of high-performance electric motors is another area where AI and humanoid robots are expected to make a significant impact. Mercedes-Benz is investing heavily in the development of advanced axial-flux motors, which offer superior power density, efficiency, and compact design compared to traditional radial-flux motors. The company has filed over 30 patents for new production techniques related to these motors, highlighting the level of innovation and expertise involved. For readers intrigued by the intersection of AI and robotics, other areas of interest might include the role of augmented reality in training robots, the use of AI in quality control, and the broader implications of these technologies for sustainability in manufacturing. Augmented reality (AR) is increasingly being used to train and program robots, allowing workers to visualize and interact with virtual models in real-world settings. By overlaying digital information onto the physical environment, AR enables more intuitive and efficient robot programming, reducing the time and cost associated with traditional methods. AI-powered quality control systems are another area of growing interest in the automotive industry. By leveraging computer vision and machine learning algorithms, these systems can detect defects and anomalies with high accuracy and speed, ensuring consistent product quality and reducing waste. Finally, the adoption of AI and humanoid robots in automotive production has significant implications for sustainability. By optimizing resource utilization, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing waste, these technologies can help manufacturers meet their environmental goals and contribute to a more sustainable future. The shift to electric vehicle production and the development of high-performance electric motors are also key trends shaping the future of the automotive industry. As consumer demand for cleaner and more efficient transportation grows, manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz are investing heavily in the research and development of advanced electric powertrains. The integration of AI and humanoid robots in the production of these components will be crucial to achieving the scale, quality, and affordability required for widespread adoption.