Rakuten Japan Testing autonomous delivery robots
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A Japanese collective including Yamato Transport and Rakuten will partner with the Japanese government in a road test of autonomous delivery robots.
A government-appointed team will monitor the testing to identify potential issues, with a special focus on safety concerns, as well as considering new operating rules for inclusion in the Road Traffic Act. The team includes representatives from Mitsubishi Estate, Japan Post, Panasonic and self-driving tech firm ZMP, as well as officials from the National Police Agency, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and local governments.
Japan’s logistics sector, under pressure from burgeoning online sales, is currently experiencing a shortage in labour that could be answered with robot delivery units equipped with cameras and GPS capabilities, giving rise to industrial opportunities for robotic systems developers.
The tests are expected to be wound up by March next year.
Questions & Answers
Q.What is the main purpose of these autonomous delivery robot tests?
What is the main purpose of these autonomous delivery robot tests?
The tests aim to identify potential issues, particularly safety concerns, and to inform new operating rules for inclusion in the Road Traffic Act. They also address labour shortages in Japan's logistics sector.
Q.Which organisations are involved in monitoring the road tests?
Which organisations are involved in monitoring the road tests?
A government-appointed team, including representatives from Mitsubishi Estate, Japan Post, Panasonic, ZMP, the National Police Agency, various ministries, and local governments, will monitor the tests.
Q.When are these autonomous robot delivery tests expected to conclude?
When are these autonomous robot delivery tests expected to conclude?
The road tests for autonomous delivery robots are anticipated to be finished by March of next year. The results will likely influence future regulations.
Q.What technological features are expected in the robot delivery units?
What technological features are expected in the robot delivery units?
The robot delivery units are expected to be equipped with cameras and GPS capabilities. These features are crucial for their autonomous operation and navigation.
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