"Passersby gawk at the squat, six-wheeled robots that crisscross the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus, avoiding all manner of obstacles to deliver food orders. “I, Food-Delivery Robot” playfully chronicles one such trek—from the robot’s point of view.
Writer Preston Schmitt, who followed along with a photographer, imagines unit 6E151’s thoughts as it strives to bring a lunch order to the On Wisconsin magazine staff. 6E151 crosses busy streets and nimbly navigates crowds of students. Along the way, the robot explains its ability to make quick adjustments, thanks to GPS tracking, 12 cameras, ultrasonic sensors, radars, and neural networks. It also relays the perils of being a UW–Madison food-delivery robot, such as when a fellow unit tumbled into a manhole and had to be rescued by construction workers.
Fortunately, this odyssey has a happy ending. The On Wisconsin staffers unlock the robot’s compartment and enjoy their lunch. Meanwhile, 6E151 turns back to retrieve its next order. A robot’s work is never done.
“I, Food Delivery Robot” was one of On Wisconsin’s most-viewed stories online for 2021 and generated tremendous engagement on social media. One alumna sent a photo of her son reading the magazine with this letter: “My nine-year-old son was captivated by 6E151’s harrowing journey across campus! Thanks for the fun read!”"
From the Judges
The piece was cleverly written and included interesting details about the technology. Creative. Unique. Out of the box.
