Global technology group Siemens partnered with Humanoid, a UK-based AI and robotics company, to complete a proof-of-concept (POC) for the application of humanoid robots in industrial logistics.

As part of the POC, Humanoid's HMND 01 wheeled Alpha humanoid robot was deployed directly in real operations at a Siemens facility. This served as an initial step to evaluate the feasibility of integrating humanoid robots into real-world manufacturing environments.

The robot can handle highly repetitive logistics tasks. Photo: Siemens

The POC focused on the task of unloading totes from storage stacks onto a conveyor belt within Siemens' logistics process. Specifically, the robot could automatically pick totes from stacks, transport them to the conveyor belt, and place them precisely for workers to receive. This process was repeated continuously until the stack was empty, demonstrating the robot's capability to handle highly repetitive logistics tasks.

The trial was divided into two phases. The first phase, focusing on internal development and demonstration, was completed before real-world deployment. During this phase, the Humanoid team built a "physical twin" to support rapid testing, optimization, and improvement throughout the POC.

The second phase involved a two-week field deployment at the Siemens electronics factory in Erlangen, Germany, where partners evaluated the robot's performance in a real production environment. The POC simultaneously measured the robot's performance and reliability during fully autonomous operation.

All target metrics were met, including a throughput of 60 totes per hour, the ability to handle two different tote sizes, continuous autonomous operation for over 30 minutes, and an operating time exceeding 8 hours. The success rate for picking and placing, both overall and autonomously, exceeded 90%.

Humanoid and Siemens view this POC as a precursor to a long-term strategic partnership. Both parties are open to expanding the scope, adding other application scenarios, and deploying humanoid robots on a larger scale at Siemens facilities.

Artem Sokolov, founder and CEO of Humanoid, stated, "We focus on developing robots that deliver measurable value in real-world environments. Close collaboration with industrial partners helps Humanoid validate technology against actual operational needs and accelerate the process of moving robots out of the lab."

Siemens is a German global technology group active in automation, digitalization, energy, and smart industry.

Humanoid is a UK-based AI and robotics company specializing in developing humanoid robots for industrial and commercial applications.

Gia Han (Source: _Logistics Manager_)