Amazon Introduces VASS, the System That Simplifies Package Sorting With Machine Vision | | Generative ai in finance and banking | Free generative ai online | Turtles AI

Amazon introduces VASS, a computer vision system that streamlines package sorting at delivery stations. Using vision projections and AI, employees can quickly identify the correct packages, improving efficiency and reducing errors.

Key Points:

• Advanced technology: VASS uses computer vision and light projections to guide employees in sorting packages.
• Operational efficiency: Reduced mental and physical strain on employees, resulting in improved sort times.
• Promising results: Initial tests show a significant decrease in errors and increased productivity.
• Future implementation: VASS is expected to be adopted in select delivery stations in Europe and the United States starting in 2027.

Amazon recently introduced VASS (Vision Assisted Sort Station), a new technology designed to streamline the package sorting process at its delivery stations. The system, based on computer vision and light projections, guides employees in quickly identifying packages for sorting, eliminating the need to consult screens or handheld devices. When packages arrive at delivery stations, VASS creates a static buffer zone where it visually highlights the correct packages with a green circle, while the irrelevant ones are marked with a red shape. In parallel, the destination bags are delivered directly to the employees, reducing the need for travel and improving work ergonomics.

This innovation builds on the previous VAPR (Vision-Assisted Package Retrieval) system, already implemented in Amazon delivery vans. VAPR automatically projects a green "O" onto the packages to be delivered once they arrive at their destination and red shapes on the other packages, assisting drivers in identifying the correct packages. According to initial tests, VAPR has led to a 67% reduction in the physical and mental effort perceived by drivers and a saving of more than 30 minutes per trip.

Preliminary tests of VASS at Amazon’s DNZ3 innovation center in Dortmund, Germany, have shown promising results:

Reduced mental load for employees, who no longer have to memorize destinations or consult portable devices.

Increased sorting accuracy, with a substantial reduction in errors.

Increased efficiency, with the ability to handle a buffer of up to 10 packages at a time, compared to only two with conventional methods.

Greater operational flexibility, allowing employees to work at their own pace without being dependent on the sequence of machines.

Currently in the pilot phase, Amazon plans to implement VASS in some of its delivery stations in Europe and the United States starting in 2027. This initiative is part of a larger investment of over €700 million in delivery station technologies in Europe, aimed at creating safer and more efficient work environments for employees.

With the introduction of VASS, Amazon continues to innovate its logistics processes, integrating advanced technologies to improve operational efficiency and employee well-being in its delivery stations.