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      A four-legged robot from Boston Dynamics has been introduced by Mercedes at its plant in Düsseldorf.

      8 hours ago

      by Brad Anderson

      Mercedes’ Düsseldorf factory has incorporated a robodog from Boston Dynamics.

      This robot detects compressed air leaks and other irregularities in the facility.

      Aris is anticipated to save Mercedes a significant sum annually.

      The rise of machines continues unabated, and at Mercedes-Benz, they're already playing a role in the workforce. An increasing number of robots are being introduced in the company's factories in Germany.

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      Humanoid robots have now joined a pilot program, and a four-legged robodog from Boston Dynamics has become part of the workforce at the Düsseldorf van plant. Named Aris, this robot is more than just a novelty; Mercedes anticipates that it will yield annual savings in the six-figure range.

      Monitoring and Analyzing

      The robodog is outfitted with specialized sensors and artificial intelligence, enabling it to detect compressed air leaks and other anomalies in the plant. It can also assess analog gauges, identify unusual noise patterns, and navigate stairs throughout the facility.

      This is not the first instance of an automaker utilizing a robodog in this manner. Last year, Jaguar Land Rover introduced a Boston Dynamics robot designed to find gas leaks that are imperceptible to humans, and it is also capable of measuring and inspecting valves and machinery at its Coventry plant.

      It remains unclear whether Mercedes intends to expand the functionalities of its robodog.

      Autonomous Drones

      Aris is not the only recent addition to the Düsseldorf factory. Mercedes-Benz has also deployed autonomous drones to the site, which are programmed to count empty containers across the factory grounds, according to Auto News. This allows employees to focus on tasks that add more value.

      More: Following Tesla, BMW Introduces Humanoid Robots For Car Manufacturing (And Coffee Making)

      Earlier this year, Mercedes further expanded its robotic workforce by incorporating humanoid robots from the US-based company Apptronik. The company has invested tens of millions into Apptronik and rolled out its robots at the Berlin-Marienfelde factory.

      These robots are designed to function independently, executing assigned tasks without the need for continuous human oversight. They navigate factory environments, adapt to new surroundings, and perform routines that previously required manual monitoring.

      Read: Mercedes Employs Humanoid Robots At Berlin Production Facility

      They are also smart enough to recognize when their power is low. When running low on battery, these robots can detect this condition, make their way to a charging station, and plug themselves in without needing instructions. It's akin to your Roomba, though they're far less likely to get trapped under the couch and much more prone to taking over jobs in the future.