Mercedes-Benz has invested in robotics to increase efficiency and reduce energy loss at its Düsseldorf plant. The factory now operates a robot dog named Aris and an autonomous drone. These new systems are digitizing the facility’s maintenance and inspection processes.

Mercedes launches robot dogs and drones

Panel van versions of the Sprinter and eSprinter are produced at this massive 325,000-square-meter facility. The robot dog, named “Aris,” detects compressed air leaks and abnormal noises on the production line. This helps predict potential malfunctions and prevent energy loss.

According to a statement from Mercedes, Aris can even automatically control analog gauges. The data it collects is said to have resulted in annual cost savings of up to six figures.

One of Aris’s most striking features is its ability to climb stairs, allowing it to move fully autonomously around the facility. It is said that in the future, it will also take on tasks such as checking emergency exits and providing data to factory digital twin models.

Another assistant at the factory is an autonomous drone. This drone automates container counting. Thanks to its artificial intelligence software, it can recognize and count cargo carriers based on their size and shape. This allows robots to offload routine tasks, allowing employees to focus on more important tasks.

Both Aris and the drone are integrated with cloud-based applications. These systems communicate with each other and have an infrastructure that can connect with the brand’s other factories in the future.