Agco tests humanoid robots for manufacturing

Agco, a major machinery company, is planning to test humanoid robots in the production of its TNC balers. The company has partnered with Agility Robotics, which focuses on developing robots and artificial intelligence, to bring this innovation to its manufacturing process.

Testing begins in 2027 at Hesston plant

The initial tests of the robots are set to take place in 2027 at Agco’s Hesston plant in Kansas. This facility specializes in manufacturing balers, which are machines used to compress materials like hay or straw into compact bales.

Digit robot handles repetitive and dangerous tasks

The humanoid robot, named Digit, will be responsible for tasks that are repetitive or pose a risk to human workers. These include sorting and stacking parts, as well as placing storage bins. Agco believes this will allow human employees to focus on more complex and valuable tasks.

Digit’s physical and technical capabilities

Digit has two legs, two arms, and grippers that can handle objects weighing up to 23 kg. It can reach up to 2.2 meters, and its cameras, sensors, and artificial intelligence allow it to recognize its surroundings and perform tasks independently.

Digit learns and adapts to workflow changes

Agility Robotics explains that Digit continuously learns and adjusts to changes in workflow. This means companies can incorporate automation into their operations without needing to make significant changes to their existing infrastructure or invest in expensive upgrades.

Agco joins global companies using similar robots

Agco is not alone in exploring the use of humanoid robots. Other major companies, including Toyota, GXO (a logistics firm), and Schaeffler (a bearing manufacturer), are already using similar robots in their operations.