Boston Dynamics’ Stretch robot is a mobile, autonomous robot designed to automate case-handling tasks in warehouses and distribution centers. It is the company’s first commercially available robot and is now being used by a number of major companies, including Maersk, DHL, and Gap.

Stretch is a versatile robot that can perform a variety of tasks, including:

• Unloading trucks and containers
• Building pallets
• Order picking
• Replenishing inventory

It is equipped with a powerful vacuum gripper that can lift and manipulate boxes of up to 50 pounds and an advanced vision system that allows it to detect and identify boxes in a variety of conditions. Stretch can also navigate autonomously around warehouses and distribution centers, avoiding obstacles and people.

One of the key benefits of Stretch is that it can help to improve safety in warehouses and distribution centers By automating repetitive and physically demanding tasks, Stretch can help to reduce the risk of injuries to workers. Additionally, Stretch can operate continuously, 24/7, which can help to improve productivity and efficiency.

Another benefit of Stretch is that it is relatively easy to deploy and integrate into existing warehouse operations. It does not require any special infrastructure and can be up and running in a matter of hours.

How Stretch works

Stretch uses a variety of sensors and technologies to operate autonomously. These include:

• Vision system: Stretch’s vision system uses stereo cameras to detect and identify boxes in a variety of conditions. The system can also be used to detect and avoid obstacles, such as people and other robots.
• Lidar: Stretch uses lidar to create a 3D map of its surroundings. This map is used to help the robot navigate autonomously and avoid obstacles.
• IMU: Stretch uses an inertial measurement unit (IMU) to track its position and orientation. This information is used to help the robot maintain its balance and navigate accurately.
• Force sensors: Stretch’s vacuum gripper is equipped with force sensors that allow it to detect the weight and center of mass of boxes. This information is used to help the robot lift and manipulate boxes safely.

Stretch in action

Stretch is being used by a number of major companies to automate case-handling tasks in their warehouses and distribution centres. For example, Maersk is using Stretch to unload containers at its ports. DHL is using Stretch to unload trucks and build pallets at its distribution centres. And Gap is using Stretch to pick and pack orders at its warehouses.

In addition to these commercial applications, Stretch is also being used in a number of research projects. For example, researchers at MIT are using Stretch to develop new methods for autonomous warehouse picking and order fulfilment.

The future of Stretch

Boston Dynamics is continuing to develop new features and capabilities for Stretch. For example, the company is working on developing a version of Stretch that can be used to load goods onto trucks. Additionally, Boston Dynamics is working on developing new software tools that will make it easier for companies to integrate Stretch into their existing warehouse operations.

As Stretch continues to evolve, it is likely to become increasingly widely adopted by businesses of all sizes. The robot has the potential to revolutionize the way that warehouses and distribution centers operate, making them more efficient, productive, and safer.