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MIT designing AI-powered robot that bags groceries

Photo: MIT CSAIL/YouTube

July 29, 2024

MIT researchers are designing a robotic system to tackle bagging groceries.

The innovation uses a combination of cameras, AI and grippers to automate the bagging process at self-checkout stations, according to a Popular Science report.

The robot's camera and AI work in tandem to identify items on a conveyor belt. The grippers use pressure sensors to assess an item's nature. Soft fruits, like grapes, are placed aside, while sturdier items like soup cans are bagged first. The technology stands out from previous robotic baggers by preventing damage to delicate produce, according to the news outlet.