Yandex Robotics: The Dawn of a New Era in Warehouse Automation

September 14, 2024, 9:38 pm
LeroyMerlin
Location: France, Upper France, Lille
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 1923
Yandex
Yandex
AdTechE-commerceInternetMobileOnlineProductSearchServiceTransportationWebsite
Location: Russia, Moscow
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 2018
In the bustling world of technology, Yandex has taken a bold step. The company has spun off its robotics division into a new entity: Yandex Robotics. This move, announced on September 7, 2024, during a robotics meetup, marks a significant shift in how Yandex approaches automation. The official registration of Yandex Robotics occurred just days later, on September 11.

The head of this new venture is Ivan Kalinov, the former leader of Yandex Market's robotics department. Under his guidance, Yandex Robotics aims to scale its business in the burgeoning field of warehouse automation. The goal is clear: to create robots that not only serve Yandex's own operations but also cater to external businesses.

Warehouse robots are the backbone of this new company. Yandex has unveiled several prototypes designed to streamline operations. The Spectro robot, for instance, is a marvel of engineering. It features a 12-meter tall mast equipped with cameras. This robot glides along warehouse aisles, scanning labels and checking inventory. It’s like a vigilant eye, ensuring that shelves are stocked and organized.

Then there’s Dilectus, a mobile lift that transports containers. It can carry up to nine containers at once, making it a workhorse in the warehouse. Unlike traditional systems that rely on euro pallets, Dilectus uses specialized plastic containers. This innovation reflects a shift towards more efficient storage solutions.

Motus is another key player in this robotic lineup. This autonomous platform moves containers around the warehouse, reducing the need for human labor. It’s a silent partner, working tirelessly in the background.

Yandex Robotics is not just about individual machines. It’s about creating a cohesive system. The company has developed control systems for various robotic arms. These arms can unload pallets and assemble orders for marketplaces. They utilize computer vision and neural networks, allowing them to manipulate items without needing precise measurements. It’s like having a digital hand that adapts to its surroundings.

Testing is crucial. Yandex has set up trials at its robotics center and real warehouses, including the Sofia-2 center. Here, they are implementing the "goods to person" concept. This strategy minimizes the movement of workers, allowing robots to bring items directly to them. It’s a dance of efficiency, where robots take the lead.

Yandex’s ambitions extend beyond its own warehouses. The company plans to sell its robots to other businesses. One notable partner is Lema PRO, formerly known as Leroy Merlin. At Lema PRO’s warehouse, Yandex’s robotic arm is already in action, unloading pallets. This collaboration aims to cut depalletization costs by 40% and double the speed of operations. It’s a win-win scenario, where technology meets practicality.

The partnership with Lema PRO is just the beginning. Yandex is in talks with several other companies, although their names remain under wraps. The potential for growth is immense. As more businesses recognize the benefits of automation, Yandex Robotics is poised to become a key player in the market.

The creation of Yandex Robotics is a strategic move. It allows the company to focus on innovation and development. By separating its robotics division, Yandex can streamline operations and enhance its offerings. This decision reflects a broader trend in the tech industry, where specialization leads to greater efficiency.

The robots themselves are not just tools; they represent a shift in how we think about work. They take on repetitive tasks, freeing human workers to focus on more complex responsibilities. This transition is crucial in a world where labor shortages are becoming common. Automation is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity.

Yandex Robotics is entering a competitive landscape. Other companies are also developing warehouse automation solutions. However, Yandex’s experience and existing infrastructure give it a unique advantage. The company has been working on robotic solutions since 2022, laying the groundwork for this new venture.

The future of Yandex Robotics looks bright. As they continue to innovate, the company will likely introduce more advanced robots. These machines will not only improve efficiency but also redefine the warehouse experience. Imagine a world where robots handle the heavy lifting, allowing humans to oversee operations from a distance.

In conclusion, Yandex Robotics is more than just a new company; it’s a glimpse into the future of work. With its focus on warehouse automation, Yandex is leading the charge in a rapidly evolving industry. The robots are here to stay, and they are ready to transform how we think about logistics and supply chains. As Yandex continues to develop and deploy these technologies, the landscape of warehousing will never be the same. The dawn of a new era is upon us, and Yandex Robotics is at the forefront.