Panasonic to start testing delivery by Sorakarabin robot funicular to help with Japan's labour crisis due to growing elderly population

The introduction of a robotic delivery system in the suburb of Kawasaki that uses unmanned aerial vehicles could significantly change delivery logistics, make shopping easier for the elderly, and promote social activity and mutual aid in the community. Panasonic, Tokyu, and the Urban Renaissance Agency (UR) have entered into a cooperation agreement to conduct a pilot project to use drones for delivery in the Kawasaki suburb of Kanagawa Prefecture. The project is set to be the first of its kind, introducing aerial robots for civilian logistics operations in residential areas.

The public will be given the opportunity to experience the system from November 18, as part of an effort to engage the public and ensure transparency in the testing. The project is aimed at addressing critical social challenges such as a shortage of delivery workers and rising delivery costs, especially in areas with a high level of population ageing. Improving the comfort of shopping in suburbs can help build communities, improve the well-being of residents and revive local traditions of communication and assistance.

Panasonic aims to develop robotic delivery systems as a response to the "Challenge 2024", which refers to the logistics industry's labour crisis, and to facilitate shopping in the face of decreasing accessibility to traditional stores in the suburbs. The pilot project will also provide a detailed analysis of the efficiency of using drones for delivery, their impact on the lifestyle of local residents and their potential role in future urban infrastructures. It is expected that the increase in the number of places to receive automatic delivery goods will not only help residents improve the logistics of shopping, but also stimulate social activity and support among the elderly population, who may face problems in accessing goods and services.

The challenge of 2024 in Japan

Japan's challenge of 2024 is related to the expected labour shortage due to an ageing population. As an industrialised country, Japan faces unique challenges, such as a shrinking young population and an increasing number of elderly people leaving the labour market. This is leading to a reduction in the number of available workers, especially in sectors that require physical labour such as construction and logistics, and creating a need for innovation and reform, including automation and robotics.

About Tokyu Corporation

Tokyu Corporation, also known as the Tokyu Group, is a diversified conglomerate based in Japan, engaged in a variety of businesses including rail, real estate and leisure. One of the company's core businesses is rail transport, including the operation of commuter railways in and around Tokyo. In addition to transport, Tokyu owns and operates a large number of real estate properties, including residential complexes, shopping malls and office buildings. The company is also active in the leisure and hospitality sectors, operating hotels, resorts and entertainment venues. Tokyu has a reputation as an innovator in the field of sustainable development, developing smart city and green architecture projects. The company is active internationally, investing in various projects outside Japan. Through its many businesses and partnerships, Tokyu Corporation has played a significant role in the development of infrastructure and urban planning in Japan.

About Urban Renaissance Agency

The Urban Renaissance Agency, or UR, is a Japanese government organisation that develops urban projects. It was established to support urban development, reconstruction and renovation of residential areas. UR works to create affordable housing, improve the quality of residential areas and promote economic growth through urban planning. The agency also does a lot of work in the field of environmental protection and sustainable development, implementing green building and smart city initiatives.

Source: robotstart.info