DAL-e-Delivery Robot Overview
With the ongoing paradigm shift in mobility, Hyundai Motor, in collaboration with Kia Robotics Lab, has launched the next generation of its DAL-e-Delivery robot designed to transport 16 cups of coffee and 10 kilograms of packages in office settings, shopping malls, airports, and healthcare sectors.
Based on the design philosophy of free-moving Plug & Drive (PnD) modules combined with autonomous driving and face identification, the robot can swiftly navigate through complex and narrow routes while achieving a stable speed of up to 1.2 meters per second.
“DAL-e Delivery offers efficient and reliable F&B and parcel dispatch services to ensure customers receive goods promptly,” said Dong Jin Hyun, Vice President and Head of Robotics Lab at Hyundai Motor and Kia. “Our vision extends to implementing infrastructure interworking across diverse spaces, including offices, restaurants, and shopping malls.”
Standout Features
The new DAL-e-Delivery robot is based on the concept of a single wheel modular unit launched by the Hyundai Motor Group in 2022 to advance last-mile deliveries featuring PnD technology paired with autonomous driving and compliance with elevators.
This latest version comes with a square column design and rounded corners, built smaller in size than its predecessor but with an expanded cargo area. Hyundai Motor and Kia’s Robotics Lab have thoughtfully kept the center of gravity low, combining the suspension, braking, steering, and environmental recognition sensors in a way that ensures coffee, food, and packages arrive safely and without damage.
Furthermore, it utilizes a high-resolution 11.6-inch display to show service and operation status and animated facial expressions. To add an extra layer of security, Hyundai and Kia developed AI facial identification technology certified by the Korean Internet and Security Agency.
Contact-Less Interaction
The DAL-e-Delivery robot leverages environmental sensors to avoid floor bumps and imperfections. Using real-time information, it can calculate optimal routes to minimize delivery time. Meanwhile, the wireless interface allows it to interact with smart buildings for calling lifts, controlling doors, and navigating through different floors without human assistance. When moving between floors, it can determine the number of people boarding an elevator and wait for the next elevator if necessary.
The delivery robot uses its built-in camera and AI brain to automatically open the storage trays for recipients or identify their parcel without the need for a password or biometric identification. The storage area also includes a light.
Deployment and Future Prospects
The DAL-e-Delivery Robot targets commercial spaces and will debut at IGIS Asset Management’s Factorial Seongsu. Hyundai Motor and Kia signed a business agreement with IGIS in May 2023 to commercialize the robot-friendly building.
This cutting-edge autonomous mobility solution confidently meets the growing demands of logistics by providing efficient and reliable delivery options for food, beverages, and bulky parcels within commercial areas. With the launch of things like the Honda AWM autonomous lawn mover and now the DAL-e-Delivery Robot, OEMs are enabling businesses to utilize their efforts on more value-added activities while leaving mundane chores for the machines.
