Audi and Agile Robots test mobile humanoids for parts sequencing in Ingolstadt

Audi and Agile Robots are testing mobile humanoids for parts sequencing at Ingolstadt, with Dassault Systèmes and NVIDIA providing digital-engineering and simulation technology. Announced at GTC Berlin on 21 October, the proof of concept is underway in Audi’s Production Lab, where robots pick components from containers and arrange them in assembly order.

Sequencing determines which parts reach an assembly workstation and in what order. Audi says its material-supply operations involve around one million picks a day. The trial addresses work involving varied components, flexible parts and mixed container contents, where a robot must choose a grasp and place the correct item into the next position.

Agile Robots’ platform combines a mobile base with a humanoid upper body and dual-arm manipulation. Working at human height allows it to reach into existing containers and handling areas. AI perception identifies parts presented in different positions or packaging, while two-arm handling supports larger or flexible components. Audi’s supply-chain team defines the operating requirements and contributes its sequencing experience.

The partners are building a virtual twin of the logistics environment using Dassault Systèmes’ DELMIA tools on 3DEXPERIENCE with NVIDIA Omniverse libraries. Engineers will use it to examine task feasibility, cycle timing, ergonomics and safety before deployment within the wider intralogistics environment. The proposed workflow also includes future assistance from Dassault’s LEO virtual companion.