Peachtree Corners launches first underground-delivery robot

The US city of Peachtree Corners has launched what has been dubbed “the world’s first below-ground autonomous robot delivery system”.

Developed in cooperation with tech firm Pipedream, the new delivery system spans almost one mile and connects a busy shopping centre to the heart of the city’s Curiosity Lab – a 25,000-square-foot smart innovation centre.

Staff at the centre will be able to order food from a handful of restaurants Monday through Friday during peak lunch hours, with deliveries made through underground infrastructure through which robots travel back and forth.

“When we think about wear and tear [on infrastructure] and the kerb management of deliveries, they’re often delivering one package to thousands of people a day,” Brandon Branham, Chief Technology Officer, Peachtree Corners told Cities Today.

“If we can take that and put it underground we can clean up our roads, save on emissions and reduce the wear and tear on infrastructure.”

“Right now, Curiosity Lab members can order food from select restaurants – but, the goal is to expand this to groceries and packages in the near future as the pilot continues.”

How it works

The tunnel is built 1.8-2.1 metres underground depending on the elevation, with the robot capable of travelling at speeds of up to 72 kilometres per hour.

The entire trip takes approximately five minutes, according to Branham – who also serves as the innovation centre’s Executive Director.

“This would be faster than a car, as there are no stop lights or other vehicles on the roadway causing delays,” he added.

“With this first real-world installation we have proven that underground delivery is not only possible today but easy to retrofit,” said Garrett McCurrach, CEO of Pipedream.

“Underground delivery feels like something just teleported into your living room, and thanks to the leadership of Peachtree Corners in pushing forward and implementing smart city world-first technologies and infrastructure, this is a reality today.

“We’re excited for people to experience that here at the Curiosity Lab, and are planning to bring it to many more cities over the next couple of years.”

Image: Curiosity Lab