In the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, a revolutionary change in the coffee industry is brewing, thanks to the innovative robotic coffee kiosks developed by Hi-Dolphin Robot Technology. Founded in 2018 by Philip Han, the company aims to transform how coffee lovers enjoy their daily brews with their flagship product, Cofe+. This self-contained robotic kiosk promises not only a quick and convenient coffee experience but also substantial cost savings for business owners.
The Cofe+ is more than just a machine; it’s a testament to how technology can enhance everyday experiences. Designed for efficiency, this kiosk operates 24/7, serving up to 800 cups of freshly ground coffee daily at an astonishing pace of about 50 seconds per cup. With a compact footprint of less than 2.5 square meters and weighing roughly 800 kg, it fits seamlessly into various environments, from hospitals to tourist attractions.
Customers have a delightful array of options at their fingertips, choosing from two types of coffee beans, two cup sizes, and three temperature settings—cold, hot, and iced. This next-generation robotic barista also allows patrons to customize their drinks according to strength, temperature, sweetness, and ice level, potentially serving over 50 unique flavors.
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The standout feature of the Cofe+ is its four-axis robotic arm, which meticulously handles the coffee-making process, ensuring precision and consistency. According to the South China Morning Post, the automation inherent in the kiosk enables swift coffee preparation, achieving a daily capacity of 300 drinks.
Hygiene is a top priority for the Cofe+. Enclosed in glass, the kiosk incorporates advanced features to protect against insects and bacteria. With self-cleaning capabilities and the ability to maintain milk at a constant temperature, this robotic barista ensures that every cup served is as fresh as possible.
“The Cofe+ robot coffee kiosk is fully enclosed for sterilization and dust elimination, intelligently disinfects and cleans, and operates 24 hours a day.”
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One of the most compelling advantages of the Cofe+ is its remarkable cost savings. Hi-Dolphin claims that operating a fully automated booth is approximately 90% cheaper than running a traditional coffee shop. Furthermore, it requires significantly fewer staff, making it an appealing option for businesses navigating economic uncertainties. A maintenance person can prepare a kiosk for operation in less than 30 minutes, allowing them to manage up to 10 kiosks in a single day.
With over 500 locations already utilizing the Cofe+, including museums, bookstores, temples, and research institutes, the technology is poised to revolutionize the coffee landscape. Hi-Dolphin envisions its kiosks as a lifeline for coffee shops struggling to stay afloat amid a challenging economic climate, where thousands of cafes have shut their doors in recent years.
The company has established nearly 1,000 coffee booths in more than 30 foreign countries and plans to expand to an additional 20 countries by the end of the year. The price of each kiosk ranges from $50,000 to $60,000 overseas, with a lifespan of around 10 years, making it a viable investment for entrepreneurs globally.
