Coca-Cola European Partners (CCEP) has revealed that is piloting robotic technology at the Alton Towers theme park resort to help deliver drinks to customers, as part of its Ventures innovation investment fund.
CCEP Ventures is working with autonomous driving experts TeleRetail to test the technology in a high-traffic location. During the trial, the robot will collect products from the Alton Towers distribution centre and deliver them to drinks outlets across the park, using artificial intelligence to manoeuvre around the visitors.
The robot travels at 3mph and distances of up to 50km. It is equipped with GPS technology, sight, sound and motion sensors to safely navigate around people and objects. It also uses laser sensors to judge the distance to potential obstacles, enabling it to stop safely and avoid collisions.
The soft drinks company stated that the technology was developed by TeleRetail to help fulfil the growing need for effective logistics solutions. In the future, the software could be used on different sized vehicles to solve a range of delivery problems. If successful, CCEP claimed the trial could change the way its delivers products to its customers.
The Alton Towers pilot is one of three taking place in industrial, retail and pedestrian environments – to capture data and improve the quality of the software.
Leendert Den Hollander, Vice President and General Manager at Coca-Cola European Partners, said: “We are seeking out leading-edge technology start-ups and helping them to grow through access to expertise and the opportunity to test and refine their innovative solutions.
“The TeleRetail robots are a perfect example of how we are trialling technology that could enable 24/7 on-demand logistic services and eventually be something that can be scaled up to larger vehicles.
“By developing technology, solutions and processes, we can improve the way we operate, to better serve our customers and consumers – now and in the future.”
NAM Implications:
- Every little helps!
- Seriously, a pointer for others…
