The team who created Amazon’s warehouse robots returns with a new robot named Chuck – CNBC

Currently, the start-up's software connects to retailers' and shippers' systems to get data about what orders are coming in the door, and where items are located in a facility. The Chuck also takes in data from on-board sensors to navigate within centimeters of a desired item on a shelf.

The robots could become smarter over time, and help the managers and operators of warehouses identify areas for improvement, essentially managing foot traffic and placement of inventory on shelves.

Dubois told CNBC, "When researchers truly figure out grasping, and things like that, there's also a real opportunity to put an arm on Chuck, and start to use him to help people with different kinds of work."

The company's competition includes Locus Robotics, Fetch Robotics and a handful of other more niche systems designed to help workers in warehouses move goods around more efficiently.

6 River Systems recently attracted $15 million in new venture funding, Dubois said. The round was led by Norwest Venture Partners, joined by Eclipse Ventures and iRobot, the company that created the Roomba vacuum.

Norwest's Matt Howard said one reason his firm invested in 6 River Systems is because its technology can be installed without any changes to a warehouse.

"You can start using the Chuck without pouring in any concrete, or installing cameras and sensors or special networks all over. This will be accessible for small to medium-sized enterprises, which are essential for making deliveries over that last mile," he explained.

While the CEO did not have permission to name early customers of 6 River Systems, he said they already include half a dozen publicly traded companies including massive department stores, big box retailers and third-party logistics businesses. He expects the installed base for Chuck will more than double in the next three months.

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The team who created Amazon's warehouse robots returns with a new robot named Chuck - CNBC