Dear MEL Topic Readers,
Japan Airlines trials humanoid robots as ground handlers
While robots have been used in various workplaces, including factories,
warehouses, restaurants, and hotels, humanoid robots are being deployed primarily
in pilot programs, at least so far. But starting from this month, Japan
Airlines begins using humanoid robots to help load and unload cargo containers at
its major hub, Tokyo’s Haneda Airport. The airline has been facing serious
labor shortages, especially for labor-intensive ground handling, as the working-age
population declines. Among the ground handling tasks, loading and unloading
cargo is a physically demanding task. Workers have to work outside in the rain
or wind, and in summer when ground temperatures reach or exceed 40 degrees in
humid air due to the asphalt and concrete ground, scorching sun shine, and jet
engine exhaust. The airline has been working with a robotics partner for two
years to bring humanoid robots into such a harsh environment. Humanoid robots
can now not only run or dance, but also help humans do their jobs. It may not
be too long before they start caring for humans in nursing homes and at home.
Read the article and see the video to learn how humanoid robots can
help humans.
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