United Rentals to Use 5D Robotics for Autonomous Driving
United Rentals and 5D Robotics, Inc. have teamed up to bring autonomous driving technology to United Rentals equipment operations. The 5D solution prevents collisions, enables multiple vehicles to follow a person or lead vehicle (“wagon-training”), and allows operators to quickly and easily create and modify autonomous paths throughout a facility.
The 5D solution is much more accurate and reliable than GPS and can function in rain, dust, snow and fog, the company says. It currently has automation systems in place in the defense and energy sectors. A video showing how the system functions, with a scissor lift driving itself into place, is on YouTube.
According to Helge Jacobsen, United Rentals’ Vice President of Operational Excellence, “We’re very excited to be moving forward with 5D Robotics. Seeing this reliable, safe, autonomous vehicle technology function in our rental yards has been an eye opener. The equipment can move from station to station within the yard. The integration with 5D offers substantial opportunities to improve our efficiency and safety, as well as provide new analytical and mapping tools to our own branches and eventually to our customers.”
David Bruemmer, 5D Robotics’ Co-Founder and CEO, added: “5D has pioneered precision positioning and autonomous driving software that performs reliably in difficult, dynamic environments. By adding our cross-platform plug and play modules, we can provide autonomy and enhance safety across United Rentals’ fleet. We are excited to expand the application of autonomous vehicles into the equipment rental space with the industry leader. Our two companies share a passion to bring this innovative technology to hundreds of United Rentals locations, and, ultimately, to their customers.”
ZTR Control Systems and SiTech RTD are joining United Rentals and 5D Robotics in the development of the new systems and solutions that will be utilized by United Rentals.
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