Chick-fil-A testing autonomous delivery robots for its restaurants
Wonder if this is the same or a similar technology to one that the University of Tennessee, Knoxville introduced earlier this year (see news release here)? Regardless, if it works, it has to be a relief for customers who live near a Chick-fil-A and want to avoid those long drive through lines.
The highly popular fast-food company announced that it is testing delivery with the newest members of its fleet – autonomous delivery robots – at a limited number of restaurants in California, Texas, and Florida. Chick-fil-A’s news release explained that “these robots can enhance restaurant operations, cut delivery costs and provide great-tasting food with the consistency our guests expect. With the help of several autonomous delivery partners, we are researching and developing technology for a variety of environments, meeting the needs of our restaurants and guests.”
The autonomous delivery robots are equipped with artificial intelligence systems and advanced depth-perception cameras, which allow them to navigate traffic patterns, pedestrians, and even maneuver through car and bike lanes, busy malls and on sidewalks.
