Imagine a future in which your large cheese pizza is delivered by not a human, but a robot. A world in which you collect your piping hot garlic bread and ice-cold soda from the compartment of a four-wheeled unit named DRU. Well, according to Domino’s, it may not be too far off.
That’s because the restaurant chain has revealed a prototype for an autonomous bot that it says could change the way we receive our dinner on Friday night. The sleek prototype, which was built in collaboration with Marathon Robotics, is capable of achieving speeds up to 12mph and navigating from a starting point to his destination, selecting the best path of travel. He uses a LiDAR sensory system to perceive obstacles in its path and change its route accordingly. Each device is also equipped with traditional sensors that detect obstructions at close range, just like that Roomba vacuum you have cleaning your home. Initially designed for neighborhood delivery, DRU is perfectly suitable for sidewalks, bike paths, bridges, and of course, college campuses.
According to Lifehacker Australia, DRU’s body is comprised of ABS and urethane plastics, while his lenses are made using acrylic and the internal chassis is finished using aluminium and mild steel. It is water tight and weatherproof — so yes, you’ll still get your pepperoni pie on a rainy night! It weighs approximately 418lbs and has a maximum height of roughly four feet. (three feet with the compartment closed).
Although you may not see DRU roaming your streets anytime soon, the proof-of-concept is meant to show that autonomous vehicles can create new opportunities and an impetus for innovation, particularly for Domino’s in Australia and throughout the world. What’s more, the pizza giant is actively engaged in the field of robotics and working with regulators on the future commercialization of such technology.
“This highlights what can happen when disruptive thinking is fostered – it turns into a commercially viable and revolutionary product,” explains Don Meij, Domino’s Group CEO and Managing Director. “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.”
Intrigued? See DRU in action below!