mook Wrote:
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> What's more likely is the computer will load the
> container using automated forklifts (already in
> use in many Amazon warehouses). Then, the
> robo-truck will dray it to a suitable transload
> and a computerized crane will drop it on a ship or
> a train. Then the train or boat (by then
> single-operator (train) or minimal crew (boat)
> essentially supervising an automated operation
> similar to BART) will move the box to another
> transload near its destination where a robo-truck
> will take over again.
>
> You & George are right that it will be difficult
> for robo-trucks to handle unpredictable weather
> conditions; a driver will be needed at those
> times, using the robo-features for cruise control
> once things are settled. Wonder where we'll find
> them?
>
> This is capitalism at its finest - substituting
> capital (robots) for labor. Considering how often
> humans are needed to manage automated BART trains
> (at every station, usually), I'm not counting on
> it working all that well in a pure configuration.
> It is duly noted, however, that Vancouver BC has
> run its "Skytrain" system from the beginning with
> no human train operators, so in principle it's
> possible.

Do you really think mankind is just going to let robots roll over them. Lube oil will be shed.