DRU, the 'world's first' autonomous pizza delivery robot, arrives at Domino's
In an effort towards its goal of autonomous food delivery, Domino's unveiled what it called the'world's first autonomous delivery vehicle named DRU (Domino’s Robotic Unit).
The prototype has been purpose built with sleek, refined forms combined with a friendly persona and lighting to help customers identify and interact with it. DRU is a four wheeled vehicle with compartments built to keep the customer’s order hot or cold whilst traveling on the footpath at a safe speed from the store to the customer’s door. DRU, the company noted, will not be taking to the streets tomorrow.
According to the company, DRU is currently able to navigate from a starting point to his destination, selecting the best path of travel. His on-board sensors enable him to perceive obstacles along the way and avoid them if necessary.
Domino’s Group CEO and Managing Director, Don Meij said that autonomous vehicles were set to open up new opportunities and create an impetus for innovation for Domino’s globally and in Australia.
“This highlights what can happen when disruptive thinking is fostered - it turns into a commercially viable and revolutionary product. It allows Domino’s to explore new concepts and push the boundaries of what is possible for our customers. The DRU prototype is only the first step in our research and development as we continue to develop a range of innovations set to revolutionise the entire pizza ordering experience.”
The Company confirmed the idea for DRU came from within their internal innovation sessions and has been developed within Domino’s own DLAB, a purpose built lab aimed at helping budding entrepreneurs commercialise their ideas. DRU is powered by technology from Australian start-up company, Marathon Robotics.
“With a dedicated innovation lab this project has been accelerated much faster than normal projects, without losing any of the quality control, ” Meij said.
“To launch DRU from concept through to development of a prototype highlights the extraordinary talent and resources available on our doorstep – both with excellent external talent such as Marathon and the knowledge and experience of our internal team at Domino’s.”
“We are also working with Government agencies on the project to ensure all legal requirements are met. The agencies have been very supportive in the process to date and we’re all excited about what this technology can lead to.”
Domino’s has been working with the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, along with other global partners to ensure the delivery droid concept meets relevant legislative requirements as it is trialled and tested. The company confirmed that DRU has been involved in a number of customer deliveries in restricted streets identified by the Department under special permit and is operated in semi-autonomous mode to ensure he complies with current regulation. According to the company, the trials are a big step forward in commercialising fully autonomous delivery vehicles.
“With autonomous vehicles opening up possibilities for saving lives, saving time and moving goods more efficiently, we look forward to continuing our work in this field and leading the commercial trials so that our customers can reap the benefits,” Meij said.
“DRU is cheeky and endearing and we are confident that one day he will become an integral part of the Domino’s family. He’s a road to the future and one that we are very excited about exploring further.”
