HUMLOG – Humanoid Robots in Logistics: Interaction, Integration and Governance

Research Project, 2027

Humanoid robots are being rapidly developed to perform a range of roles within logistics systems. From warehouse operations to home delivery, they are increasingly presented as near-term substitutes for human labour. Yet it remains unclear which functions humanoid robots are expected to fulfil in commercial logistics and what barriers may constrain their future adoption.

The project aims to map the expected functions of humanoid robots, identify the organisational and technical adaptations required for their integration, and examine key barriers to adoption, including legal, ethical, and workforce-related concerns. It is motivated by recent technological advances that enable humanoid robots to operate in human-oriented environments and perform tasks alongside human workers. Ultimately, the project seeks to clarify how humanoid robots can be deployed within existing value chains and which business models may support their use in professional logistics settings.

The project will generate a journal article, a research methodology outlining how to conduct interdisciplinary research on humanoid robotics, and an application for external funding targeting a suitable funding source. It will support both academia and practitioners by identifying the current state of research and practice related to the introduction of humanoid robots, providing a methodology for interdisciplinary work on the topic, and helping Chalmers and the University of Gothenburg secure project funding for related research.