development of a cognitive robot for unloading of containers in logistics
Globalization has caused the increased demand and hence transportation of goods. Today, most goods are shipped via sea freight in containers and then transferred onto trucks for further transportation. Surprisingly, the containers are unloaded manually since they are frequently packed chaotically, the variety of transported goods is high, and time requirements are strict. Unloading of containers is a strenuous task as goods can weigh up to 70 kg each, posing health risks such as exposure to toxicities of pesticides and poisonous gases as well as injuries through unexpectedly falling objects. Human labor is therefore a high cost factor and combined with unhealthy working conditions, making automated solutions highly desirable. Existing systems for automated unloading are restricted to specific scenarios and still have drawbacks in their flexibility, adaptability and robustness. A robotic system suited for the unloading tasks of any container requires a high amount of cognitive capabilities, sensing and perception all with the appropriate control. The RobLog Project aims at just this, to develop appropriate methods and technologies that meet the requirements to automate logistics processes.