Flippy, the burger-flipping robot, takes a break
Flippy took the spotlight this week as a burger-flipping robot installed at a Cali Burger in Pasadena, California, that might one day replace humans. But the robot has reportedly been forced to take a break because it has been deemed too slow.
Flippy needs a break, after all.
After gaining significant attention this week for being a burger-flipping robot that might replace humans some day, the robot has been forced to take a break because it has been deemed too slow, the BBC is reporting. The avalanche of media reports led to more orders than the robot could handle, reportedly impacting its efficiency.
Installed at a Cali Burger in Pasadena, Calif., the robot, made by Miso Robotics, is undergoing an upgrade to cook in a quicker manner. In a statement obtained by the BBC, the company said it was testing Flippy's code that controls its ability to cook faster.
MEET FLIPPY, YOUR NEW FAST FOOD GRILL COOK WHO NEVER TAKES A DAY OFF
USA Today reported that even though the robot was still manning (or is it roboting?) the grill, it has been switched off, with a sign attached to it that reads, "Cooking soon."
Cali Burger's head of technology, Anthony Lomelino, told USA Today the restaurant's kitchen staff has to learn to "choreograph" their movements better to aid Flippy.
In addition to getting a reboot, Flippy's fleshy friends are also getting a helping hand, receiving additional training on how to best use it. These include tasks such as preparing the raw patties and putting the raw ingredients down to ensure Flippy is a flippin' machine.
On its website, Miso Robotics said Flippy costs $60,000 at a minimum and can make between 150 and 300 burgers per hour, depending on the size of the kitchen staff.
Once Flippy wakes from its snooze, Cali Burger is expected to install the robot in up to 50 of its restaurants. It has locations across the globe, including U.S., Canada and Mexico.
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