KAWASAKI

Company introduces new robotic cargo delivery system

Kawasaki talked about a fully robotic delivery system that will be able to function without human intervention. One of the key elements of the system is the unmanned K-Racer X1 helicopter, powered by the 1.0 engine of the H2R motorcycle.

The K-Racer X1 is a drone the size of a small car. Outwardly, it resembles a helicopter that, instead of a torque-compensated tail rotor, has two propellers on small wings. They not only play a compensating role, they also provide forward movement of the machine, and the wings on which they are installed slightly increase the lifting force of the machine. The H2R engine develops a power of up to 300 hp, which is more than enough to carry the aircraft's payload – it's limited to just 100 kg. It is possible that, in the future, this motor will be replaced by an electric motor.

Kawasaki recently posted a video showing how the K-Racer X1 can function as part of a fully robotic delivery system. Small cargo robots, which are relatively simple platforms on small wheels, will work in conjunction with the aircraft. The ground vehicle delivers the cargo to the drone, enters the hold and exits upon reaching its destination. The company plans to integrate this system with fully automated production facilities, eliminating human involvement. Nothing has been reported yet about the timing of implementation of such a project.

AVnews