United StatesLogistics and transport2025 – ongoingAmazon
Vulcan tactile AI robots for picking and stowing inventory
Amazon deployed Vulcan in Spokane and Hamburg and said it could handle approximately 75% of item types
Problem
Crowded storage compartments were difficult for robots to manipulate without damaging nearby goods. Employees also had to reach high shelves or bend to low compartments.
Approach
Amazon trained Vulcan with physical examples that included touch and force feedback. Cameras identified objects while force sensors regulated contact during picking and stowing. The robots worked at Spokane and Hamburg sites, with broader deployment planned.
Results
Takeaway
Vulcan called for human help when it could not handle an item. Its stated item coverage was a capability measure, rather than a measured productivity gain.
Categories
- Size
- Large enterprise
- Industry
- Logistics and transport
- Business function
- Logistics and supply chain
- Innovation type
- Process innovation
- AI technology
- Robotics and automationComputer vision
- Adoption
- Built in-house
- Evidence
- Company's own claim
Sources
Source summaries
Amazon described Vulcan's tactile manipulation system and its use in Spokane and Hamburg. It said the robot could handle approximately 75% of item types and would be deployed more widely.
Full details are in the original sources.