Amazon says new warehouse robot can 'feel' items, but won't replace workers

Operational Efficiency & Automation - Amazon introduces Vulcan, a new robot designed to improve warehouse operations [1] - Vulcan can handle 75% of the 1 million items in the fulfillment center [2] - The robot utilizes a "sense of touch" technology to manipulate items under 8 lbs [3] - Vulcan operates at approximately the same speed as a human worker [4] Workforce & Safety - Amazon states that Vulcan will not replace workers but shift them to higher-skilled positions [3] - The company anticipates Vulcan will reduce worker injury rates by handling items on high and low shelves [3] Facility & Scale - The fulfillment center in Spokane, Washington, spans 2.6 million square feet [1] - The center handles 3.5 million items with 2500 employees [1] - Vulcan is currently in use in Spokane and in Germany [4]