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Tag: ASRS

Reshaping the Global Supply Chain with ASRS

Posted on by David Priestman

The global supply chain can be re-shaped by the greater usage of ASRS, writes Danilo Potocnik, Head of Sales, Stoecklin Logistics.

As today’s supply chain continues to become more complicated and consumer demands climb, warehouses and distribution centers (DCs) are under increasing pressure to streamline operations and improve accuracy without compromising on workplace safety. Luckily, automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), are here to help. Although some have already adopted ASRS technology in their operations, studies have found that the global ASRS market is expected to grow from approximately $9 billion USD in 2023 to $15 billion by 2032. Factors driving this rapid adoption include:

1. Streamlined operations for enhanced efficiency

Many turn to an ASRS for its ability to drastically improve operational efficiency. Traditional warehouses can be labor intensive, requiring manual picking, packing, and storing goods. However an ASRS handles these tasks seemingly effortlessly, without the need for human intervention. Automated cranes and shuttles rapidly move the items to and from storage, significantly reducing the time it takes to fulfill orders. In high-density storage, ASRS solutions help optimize space utilization by storing goods in compact, densely packed areas—maximizing storage capacity, and eliminating the time it takes to search for items. Because automated systems can handle repetitive tasks with precision and speed, they enable faster turnaround times and fewer fulfillment errors.

2. Increased accuracy and reduced errors

Accuracy is essential in the supply chain and automated systems are equipped with advanced technology like sensors, cameras, and real-time processing capabilities to ensure precise tracking and inventory retrieval. By eliminating the risk for human error, an ASRS ensures stock levels are always accurate and only the intended goods are being picked from storage. An ASRS can automatically sort and route items, reducing the chance of misplaced inventory. This level of precision improves customer satisfaction by ensuring orders are accurately fulfilled and reduces costs associated with potential returns and rerouted goods.

3. Scalability for growing demands

Because of the unpredictability of the supply chain, having a solution that is scalable with demand is critical. Thankfully, an ASRS is flexible and can adjust to shifting needs without requiring major changes to the structure of the warehouse. The modularity of the solutions allow for easy reconfiguration to handle varying inventory levels and changing order volumes. In peak seasons for example, an ASRS can be quickly reconfigured to handle increased throughput. Having a scalable solution is essential for companies looking to remain competitive, allowing them to manage larger volumes of inventory and fulfill orders more efficiently without compromising on quality.

4. Addressing labour challenges and safety concerns

Additionally, labour shortages remain a pressing challenge in warehouses and DCs. Driven by demographic shifts, mass retirements, and evolving job market expectations, labor shortages can cause significant delays. However, an ASRS reduces the reliance on manual labor and is able to work around the clock to fulfill orders. Relying on an ASRS allows human workers to focus on more valuable activities. Additionally, ASRS solutions enhance workplace safety by handling hazardous tasks and heavy lifting, reducing the risk of injuries. By minimizing human intervention, warehouses and DCs can create safer working environments and improve overall operational safety.

5. Promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impacts

With a growing awareness about environmental impacts, sustainability has become a leading priority for businesses around the world. ASRS solutions play a key role in promoting eco-conscious supply chain practices like making better use of space. By cutting down the need for big warehouse facilities, automated systems help save energy, environmental habitats, and shrink carbon footprint linked to large-scale operations. And, with maximum precision, automated systems reduce the risk for wasted goods and materials. Additionally, many ASRS solutions are designed with energy-saving features like regenerative braking and efficient power management to further improve sustainability.

6. Integrating with advanced technologies

The benefits of an ASRS solution only get better when combined with other advanced technologies. When you integrate these systems, you can predict when maintenance will be needed, keep an eye on operations in real time, and make smarter decisions — all of which boost the overall effectiveness of automated systems. For example, integrated advanced AI algorithms can help analyze data from an ASRS to help predict potential issues before they occur, allowing for proactive maintenance and reducing downtime.

Forward-thinking

It’s clear that automation is transforming warehousing and distribution. By enhancing efficiency, accuracy, scalability, and sustainability, ASRS are not only optimizing operations but are setting new industry standards. As technology continues to advance, automation will continue to reshape the future of supply chain management — -driving innovation and fostering greater resilience in an increasingly complex global marketplace.

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Rethinking ASRS and Robots

 

Warehouse Automation in 2025: Key trends to Watch

Posted on by David Priestman

There are six key trends in warehouse automation to look out for in 2025, writes Theresa Macdonald (pictured below), Business Development Manager at Element Logic.

As automation continues to reshape industries, warehouses are emerging as prime beneficiaries of this rapid technological evolution. By 2025, businesses that embrace a forward-thinking approach to warehouse operations will see significant gains in efficiency, sustainability, and overall competitiveness. But what trends will define these changes? Below, I’ll explore the critical innovations expected to reshape warehousing in the years to come.

Collaborative robotics: Collaborating with humans

Robotic systems are already transforming how warehouses operate, and by 2025, collaborative robots, or co-working robots that perform side-by-side with human workers, will become more widespread. Unlike early fears of full workforce replacement, modern robots don’t take jobs but complement human abilities by managing repetitive and physical tasks, like retrieving items or piece-picking. These collaborative robots are making workspaces safer and more efficient. For example, robotic arms powered by machine learning can continually refine their ability to pick and place products of varying sizes and weights-allowing for faster, error-free sorting. This collaboration between humans and robots optimises workflows and maximises productivity, all while reducing the physical strain on human workers.

Theresa Macdonald

The power of data: turning insights into action

In 2025, data analytics will become a central driver of decision-making in warehouses. Whether it’s predicting demand fluctuations, identifying potential bottlenecks, or conducting predictive maintenance, the insights generated by data are becoming invaluable for operational efficiency. Real-time data, fed through AI-enabled systems, will give businesses a competitive edge by optimising everything from capacity planning to inventory control. Ultimately, it’s not just about gathering data, but turning insights into precise, effective actions that keep operations running smoothly while minimising waste and inefficiencies.

Sustainability: A mandate, not an option

Sustainability has long since moved from ‘nice-to-have’ to ‘must-have’, and warehouses are no exception. With over 40% of global CO2 emissions attributed to buildings, warehouses are under pressure to lower their environmental impact. As we approach 2025, businesses will be prioritising eco-friendly operations, from the materials used in construction to energy-efficient lighting and climate controls. Technology has a crucial role to play in reaching sustainability goals. Automation systems like AutoStore are helping operators reduce their energy consumption-ten AutoStore robots, for example, use about the same amount of energy as a household vacuum cleaner per hour. Implementing such technology can lead to lower carbon footprints and operational efficiencies, both of which offer long-term savings alongside environmental benefits.

AI: Improving intelligence in the warehouse

Artificial Intelligence (AI) will become an increasingly important part of warehouse management by 2025. Already, AI powers predictive analytics for inventory management, helping businesses anticipate demand spikes and avoid stockouts. More advanced applications see AI driving automated systems to manage everything from picking errors to maintenance schedules. AI’s sophistication has reached a point where it can “learn” warehouse patterns and continuously adapt to optimise processes. This makes for a smarter, more flexible warehouse that can adjust to evolving customer demands and operational complexities-whether that’s managing peak busy periods like Black Friday or keeping everyday operations running smoothly.

Rising customer expectations: Speed and accuracy

E-commerce growth and just-in-time delivery models have changed what customers expect from warehouse operations. By 2025, fast delivery will no longer be a competitive advantage but a customer expectation. Warehouses must respond with better agility, accuracy, and scalability. Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS), like AutoStore, will help businesses efficiently manage surges in demand while maintaining operational flexibility. Automation allows companies to reduce picking errors, streamline returns, and ensure that even during peak seasons, customers receive their orders quickly and accurately.

Preparing for the future of logistics

Warehousing in 2025 isn’t just about embracing automation-it’s about building smarter, more sustainable operations that can adapt to changing customer needs while minimising environmental impact. By investing in AI, robots, and data-driven tools, businesses can future-proof their operations and ensure they stay ahead of the competition in an increasingly demanding market.

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Industry View: Automation and the Future of Warehouse Racking

 

Fully Automated Small-parts Fulfilment Centre in CEE

Posted on by David Priestman

DHL Supply Chain announces the opening of its first warehouse fulfilment centre in Poland equipped with the fully automated small parts AutoStore system. This robotised warehouse in Gorzów Wielkopolski marks the first deployment of the AutoStore system by the global leader in contract logistics in the Centrale and Eastern Europe region. The Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) has been implemented by robotics specialist Element Logic, one of the world’s largest AutoStore distributors. This fully automated robot picking system will strengthen Poland’s position in the European e-commerce supply chain.

A new dimension of logistics efficiency

AutoStore is a very compact automated storage and retrieval system that enables optimized space-saving storage of small products and fully automated picking of items. The AutoStore in Gorzów Wielkopolski uses a fleet of 25 robots and 33 000 bins to move products around the warehouse. The solution significantly improves inventory management of hundreds of thousands of different products. The system uses aluminium frame structures, in which each product is placed in a special container called a “bin” and is stored within the structure of the warehouse. The robots support staff in the order picking process by independently locating the required bins (containers), picking them and transporting them to the so-called Port (workstation). This synergy between humans and technology enables faster order completion and delivery to customers.

“We are pleased to implement such a groundbreaking technological solution in our logistics network in Poland. AutoStore has demonstrated significant benefits internationally, especially for e-commerce providers needing high storage density and rapid order processing. With nine AutoStore systems already in operation and three more under construction, DHL Supply Chain is one of the leading users of this technology globally. Our experience shows it is a highly profitable investment, addressing key industry challenges such as labour costs, rising warehouse space expenses, and environmental concerns. This facility marks another step in DHL Group’s global strategy of scaling our innovative, efficient logistics solutions,” says Hendrik Venter, CEO EMEA DHL Supply Chain.

Cooperation with Element Logic

“The AutoStore solution is crucial for companies seeking to optimise their warehouse processes. We are delighted to have collaborated with DHL Supply Chain on this regionally groundbreaking project,” emphasised Anna Wisniewska, Managing Director of Element Logic, the system provider for the facility located at Mosiężna 3 in Gorzów Wielkopolski.

The benefits of the system:
• Storage Density: The vertical structure and dense bin storage allow the warehouse to hold more goods in less space.
• Operational efficiency: Automation reduces order-picking time and increases warehouse throughput.
• Flexibility: The modular design of the system allows for easy expansion as the needs grow.
• Improving work ergonomics: Automation relieves employees from heavy physical tasks, increasing safety and comfort.

Poland Strengthens Role as Key Supply Chain Hub

Poland has solidified its position as a critical link in the supply chain for the e-commerce sector across Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe, according to recent industry reports. Strategic investments in advanced logistics technologies, such as the AutoStore system, are driving Poland’s logistics centres to new levels of international competitiveness. With its prime location, skilled workforce, and expanding infrastructure, Poland is increasingly attracting global businesses seeking efficient and scalable logistics solutions. These advancements are enabling Polish facilities to meet growing demands for speed, flexibility, and sustainability, reinforcing Poland’s role as a logistics leader in the European market.

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DHL Supply Chain and AutoStore Partner

 

Automation Helps NEXT make Delivery on Time

Posted on by David Priestman

Leading fashion and homeware retailer, Next plc recently invested in a brand-new DC near Wakefield, connected to existing facilities by a link bridge. Looking to replace its legacy split tray sorter in order to increase throughput and reduce order-processing times, Next selected the AutoPocket sortation solution from KNAPP for its new warehouse.

AutoPocket is the latest generation of KNAPP’s pocket sorter technology, which arranges suspended pockets of goods into the precise sequence required for dispatch. “The key benefit of AutoPocket,” explains Craig Rollason, Managing Director of KNAPP UK, “is that it enables items to be deposited precisely and fully automatically anywhere in the warehouse, while moving at full speed. The ability to release items without needing to stop, or even slow down, makes the system incredibly fast.”

Every second counts

With Next promising next-day delivery for orders placed by 11pm, rapid order processing is critical. The AutoPocket system transports pockets with single-item orders directly to the packing stations, while those with goods from multi-line orders are sequenced by the system’s matrix sortation algorithm.

Two challenges, one solution

In the new DC, the KNAPP team has solved two challenges with one solution. While two AutoPocket modules consolidate and sort e-commerce orders highly efficiently, a third module handles sortation in the goods-out area. Combined with intelligent software, AutoPocket optimises the flow of goods for Next from picking all the way to shipping.

The two order-processing modules handle 15,000 items per hour, while the outbound module sorts 5,000 parcels per hour. In total, the AutoPocket system at Next features 32,300 pockets and processes around 240,000 items a day. The savings for Next, compared to a traditional cross-belt sorter, amount to 35% in weekly personnel hours. “In addition to reducing order-processing times,” says Craig Rollason, “using a single technology obviously secures benefits in terms of ease of maintenance and spare parts availability.”

Automated tote store

KNAPP has also supplied an OSR Shuttle automated store as part of its solution for Next. Containers from the store are automatically conveyed to one of 20 pocket-loading stations – 10 for each of the order-processing AutoPocket modules – where up to 1000 items per hour are taken from the totes, scanned and loaded into an automatically supplied pocket. From here, pockets are forwarded to the module distributor, which allocates them to one of the AutoPocket modules, balancing the workload between them to maximise throughput.

Buffer pocket storage

In the order consolidation area, each of the two modules has 14 buffers across two levels, where pockets of individual items are stored temporarily until all parts of an order have been processed and consolidated. Completed orders are automatically diverted from the rotating buffer to the six packing loops by the warehouse control system. Here, the pockets release their contents automatically at one of 240 chutes, which slide them to 60 packing stations. Employees pack all the items in an order into a polybag and these parcels are then fed onto a conveyor that transports them to the outbound sortation system.

Outbound sorter

Packed customer orders are inducted into the third AutoPocket module at one of six loading stations. The parcels are then sorted and distributed across 40 courier-specific drop-off points via the outbound sortation loop, from where they are shipped to customers worldwide.

“We are delighted to have delivered this successful project for Next,” comments Craig Rollason. “The AutoPocket is an incredibly versatile technology. As well as the order-fulfilment and outbound sortation tasks performed at the South Elmsall DC, AutoPocket can act as a highly efficient solution for processing returns. In addition, its modular construction means that the system can be scaled flexibly by adding sorter modules as volumes grow.”

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Fashion Retail Fulfilment Centre

 

Mahle Achieves Operational Efficiency with Cube Storage

Posted on by David Priestman

Having witnessed a trend towards more small package orders and less frequent large stock pallet orders, MAHLE Aftermarket selected a highly efficient AutoStore empowered by Kardex robotic cube storage system to increase capacity and throughput.

The global parts and solutions provider to the independent aftermarket was also experiencing storage capacity constraints at its distribution centre in Olive Branch, Mississippi. MAHLE looked for a high-density storage solution that would enable it to adapt to the shift in customer order profiles and is scalable for future growth. Having examined a range of options, the company invested in the AutoStore empowered by Kardex solution. The project has been hailed a success by MAHLE, helping the company store more products in less space and ship small orders more efficiently.

MAHLE chose Kardex to implement the intelligent goods-to-person automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) tailored to MAHLE Aftermarket’s material flow, with market-leading inventory storage density and processing. The complete AutoStore solution at the Mississippi facility comprises 42,000 bins, 7 ports and 18 robots, in addition to a connected conveyor solution with 18 gravity lanes used for consolidation.

Designed and planned by Kardex, the AutoStore solution was built and commissioned on schedule and ramped up quickly and smoothly. Kardex FulfillX maximizes the capabilities of AutoStore robotic cube systems to optimize resources and processes, delivering the fastest order fulfilment solution per square foot on the market, increasing storage capacity by up to 4 times and enhancing performance by up to 10 times compared with traditional methods, without additional workforce.

Density, scalability and hands-on support

MAHLE Aftermarket has hailed the support Kardex provided throughout the project. Lorraine Hinderer, MAHLE Aftermarket Head of Business Innovation and Excellence, says, “One of the reasons we chose Kardex is because compared to the other integrators they were able to provide an end-to-end solution tailored to our material flow, whereas the others were focused on selling their solution and not a holistic approach. I would recommend Kardex to other companies – and have actually – just due to the way that they support in the whole initial design and sizing… but also in actually implementing the system on-site.”

Rhiannon Fisher, MAHLE Aftermarket Head of Business Excellence for the North America region, adds, “The support provided by Kardex exceeded expectations. During the design process they were very hands on. They provided support on-site during the entire process and ultimately delivered a turnkey solution.”

Fred Fox, Director of Project Success for the Kardex Solutions AutoStore team, explains that Kardex offers clients the flexibility to either leverage Kardex FulfillX, the purpose-built software package designed specifically for AutoStore end-user solutions, integrate other warehouse management systems (WMS), or utilize their own software. In the case of MAHLE Aftermarket, it chose to integrate with its existing SAP Warehouse Management System. “Together we got a really good solution in place and that’s just part of who we are and what we want to do,” Fox states.

Following the success of the Olive Branch project, MAHLE Aftermarket automated a second operation in Décines-Charpieu (Lyon), France, including 22,440 storage bins, 7 robots and 2 workstations. MAHLE continues to evaluate its other locations worldwide to assess if AutoStore empowered by Kardex can enhance customer service, increase efficiencies, and standardize its operations.

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SVT and Kardex Partner for Pick and Pack

 

ASRS to OSRS Automation

Posted on by David Priestman

Ocado are a familiar name in grocery ecommerce in the UK, but now aim to challenge major warehouse systems integrators internationally. CEO Mark Richardson spoke to David Priestman.

Ten communications per second between a warehouse robot and its operating software is impressive. Not only does that prevent collisions between the picking bots, it means that ‘appointments’ for each robot can be made for a specific tenth of a second. The routing software, ‘Dash’, communicates with every robot ten times per second in scheduled time slots. This is no ordinary automation system. Such expertise has been honed by 20 years’ operating Ocado’s 50,000 grocery line SKU storage and retrieval system in Britain.

“It’s a leading-edge ASRS, high-dense cube that can be scaled up as large as is necessary. The robots are designed to lift up to 35kg. Each storage bin can contain just over 30kg of product,” Richardson explains. Brands with complex, high-throughput operations in healthcare, retail apparel/footwear, consumer packaged goods, plus their third-party logistics operators can now access this automated fulfillment technology from Ocado Intelligent Automation (OIA). “It’s a global offer, pretty broad applications, especially in pharma,” Richardson adds.

OIA, a division of Ocado Group, formerly part-owned by the John Lewis Partnership, debuted its Ocado Storage and Retrieval System (OSRS) for the first time in North America at Manifest in February. OSRS simplifies and streamlines complex challenges facing modern supply chains using software, hardware, and processes proven in the demanding grocery industry.

“A non-grocery cube, on average, is not as big but it can be even larger, if required, for example in a general merchandise warehouse,” Richardson reveals. “We’re going for the larger systems. Non-grocery presents a breadth, rather than a throughput challenge. As the technology matures we can automate anything.” Food-retail demands fast, continuous picking, but non-food may have more and slower-moving items.

“We’re using our technology to create new products at our R&D centre in Welwyn Garden City,” Richardson says. Mention of the town of my birth and childhood, in Hertfordshire, peaks my interest further. “Automation tends to deliver better results, it’s more deterministic and very reliable. We can load our bins without humans. Inbound goods are delivered to the decant stations by pallet truck, for now,” he adds. “OSRS can buffer the outcome of the pick. Completed picks can be stored back in the grid for despatch later, therefore decoupling the processes of picking and dispatch. Prior to despatch, robots retrieve all the orders for a delivery route and bring them out of the grid. This allows the finished pick to live in the grid.”

OIA also incorporates technologies brought into the group with the acquisition of 6 River Systems and Kindred AI. These bring depth and flexibility to OIA’s products, offering a range of solutions. ‘Chuck’ is a robot order picker that does not necessitate a major investment. Kindred’s powered robot is deployed as a picking arm on top of the OSRS grid. It can be tele-operated remotely, so no engineer is required on site and Ocado Group has more than 1000 maintenance and support personnel around the world plus a 2500 strong development team in eight countries.

I asked Richardson the million-dollar question. How does OSRS compare with AutoStore, the Norwegian-invented system that has become the go-to for ASRS in the DC, sold by many system integrators? “We’re the most dense system, saving footprint,” he claims, “and OSRS is faster – more products can get through it. OSRS can be built taller than an AutoStore so can achieve a greater density in a given floor space. Because OSRS robots occupy just a single grid space, they create less congestion, so for busy grids total system throughput is higher. This all reflects our background in grocery, where volumes are typically very high compared to other industries.” The gauntlet has been laid down. What of further acquisitions? “We’re not specifically looking for new technology right now,” says Richardson, “but absolutely will do so in the future.”

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Ocado Claims Breakthrough Advances in Robotic Arm Capability

 

Reliable, Customizable Shuttle System Introduced

Posted on by David Priestman

HWArobotics showcased its high quality, reliable and efficient shuttle automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) technology at the MODEX 2024 supply chain show, in Atlanta, Georgia (March 11-14TH).

The warehousing and logistics robot company has 20 years’ experience in developing and building shuttle robot systems and appeared at MODEX to introduce its comprehensive range of ASRS technology to a North American audience. HWArobotics is looking to expand its customer base in the region and develop new partnerships with distributors, following the successful deployment of its solutions by Canadian 3PL business Darwynn.

Designed to optimize logistics and supply chain management operations, four key HWArobotics product lines were launched in North America, including three tote shuttles and one pallet shuttle, as well as associated cargo lifts, racking, and control software. With system availability of more than 99%, excellent reliability, accuracy, and scalability, HWArobotics customizable shuttle robot systems deliver high throughput for a wide range of industry sectors and can be deployed fast to deliver results quickly.

A whole process intelligent logistics solution

HWArobotics’ warehouse automation experts were on hand at Booth C3885 at this year’s MODEX to demonstrate the company’s products, which use high performance components from European suppliers, including Siemens (Germany), Voestalpine (Austria) and Hilti (Liechtenstein). The stand featured the SLS300, SLS400, and SLS600 series tote shuttles and the FPSS1500 pallet shuttle.

Manufactured using durable, long-lasting core components to create a stable structure, the SLS300 series standard tote shuttle storage system delivers high efficiency and up to 24 hours of continuous operation. Capable of speeds of up to 4 m/s and acceleration of 2 m/s, the SLS300 has single machine capability of up to 120 boxes an hour. Alongside the SLS300, HWArobotics also launched the SLS400 series variable tote shuttle system to the North American market. Offering strong compatibility and flexibility, the robot ASRS solution can mix and store containers of different sizes and can be configured to meet different efficiency requirements.

Reliable, economical and flexible, HWArobotics’ SLS600 3D tote shuttle system meets the needs of low-traffic, high-efficiency environments, such as spare parts, publishing, and ecommerce sites. It has excellent warehouse sharing capabilities as shuttles can realize any change of lane operation, while system capacity can be easily adjusted by increasing or decreasing the number of shuttles to meet local short-term demand peaks.

Customizable Shuttle System

Also on display at MODEX 2024 was the highly-controllable FPSS1500 series pallet robot shuttle system designed for warehouses and distribution centers. The four-directional solution is an advanced ASRS designed for efficient pallet handling and storage, with global standard CE and UL certification. Specialized all-electric shuttle devices are capable of moving in four directions within the racking structure, providing enhanced versatility and operational efficiency.

The FPSS1500A is designed for room temperature environments across the manufacturing, distribution, food & beverage, and industrial sectors, and the FPSS1500B has been created specifically for cold storage, such as food, medicine and cold chain businesses. Using AI scheduling algorithms, it has achieved swarm intelligence within the PSR system to automatically adjust efficiency based on the number of vehicles and the rack structure.

Alongside its high performance shuttle devices, HWArobotics has a wide portfolio of goods lifts, racking and picking workstations (including robotic picking), for maximum performance and conveying capacity, high positioning accuracy, and sturdy, high tolerance storage.

HWArobotics General Manager, Sky Chen, explains, “We are delighted to have been at MODEX 2024 demonstrating the exceptional range of benefits our tote and pallet shuttle ASRS solutions can deliver. Thank you to the many visitors who visited our stand to learn more about the possibilities our innovative automated warehousing and logistics technology offers to reduce the workload of personnel and deliver efficient and accurate order execution.

“At HWArobotics we are enormously proud of the 20 years’ of experience we have as a pioneer in the field of shuttle robot systems and our exceptional customer service. We have established a base in the US and are excited to enhance the competitiveness of North American businesses with our shuttle ASRS technology. The recent deployment of HWArobotics shuttle systems by Darwynn demonstrates how our technology can be up and running quickly and effectively, automating and optimizing logistics and storage processes. Our strong global customer base, including Bosch UAES, Hisense Hitachi, SONY, iCOOP, Shein, Joyson Safety Systems, JD.com and Forvia, is testament to the capabilities we offer to companies seeking intelligent upgrading of their warehouses and manufacturing plants.”

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Automation: Key to Sustainable Warehousing

 

 

Kardex Introduces FulfillX at MODEX

Posted on by David Priestman

Kardex, a world leading manufacturer of automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), is presenting Kardex FulfillX – an innovative warehouse execution system designed specifically for AutoStore empowered by Kardex systems – at MODEX 2024. Kardex FulfillX takes the unexpected surprises out of go-live and allows new AutoStore systems to ramp-up faster and meet or exceed business cases in as little as 6 months. Showcasing its latest developments in automation software, MODEX visitors will experience a new way to maximize automation and robotics potential in Atlanta, March 11 – 14, in booth B6410.

In addition to new developments in warehouse software, visitors will also be able to experience live demonstrations of Kardex’s Intuitive Pick Assistant that projects relevant picking information directly onto the surface of the access opening for both Kardex Remstar and AutoStore ports. This user-friendly picking display responds to movements and enables ergonomic, fast, and error-free picking.

Through the use of digital tools, visitors will experience Kardex’s entire portfolio of solutions, including vertical lift modules, vertical carousel modules, vertical buffer modules and AutoStore systems, come to life using augmented reality. Comprehensive software packages as well as service and modernization concepts complete the portfolio. Furthermore, Kardex is a global AutoStore partner. The powerful and space-saving solution for fast and efficient processing of small parts orders fits ideally into the existing solution portfolio of Kardex AG.

Cube storage

Commenting on the capabilities of FulFillX, AutoStore Partner Sales Manager, Matt Savoie says, “Kardex’s innovative FulfillX warehouse execution system is a great fit for AutoStore, enabling our market-leading warehouse automation systems to do more and exceeding our customers’ expectations of what is possible with cube storage. Being able to ramp up systems faster without any surprises provides reassurance and the confidence companies need to meet and exceed their business goals.”

President of Kardex Solutions Autostore, Mitch Hayes, adds, “MODEX 2024 is the ideal opportunity to present FulFillX to a wide audience and showcase its possibilities. As a global AutoStore partner, we have developed a warehouse execution system that can provide remarkable results in just 6 months and is the fastest order fulfilment system per square foot on the market. We are looking forward to meeting with visitors to the expo and demonstrating how FulFillX, our Intuitive Pick Assistant, and AutoStore can help to transform their warehouse operations.”

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SVT and Kardex Partner for Pick and Pack

 

Movu Orchestrates Dynamic Warehouse Robotics

Posted on by David Priestman

stow Group, a global market leader in the development, manufacture and implementation of advanced warehouse solutions and automated storage systems, is putting its new Movu Robotics brand in the spotlight at LogiMAT 2024.

On booth 3B67 (in hall 3) Movu will feature a dynamic technology showcase of its state-of-the art robotics sub-systems. This ensemble of seamlessly integrated solutions will demonstrate how automation and robotics is not only accessible but is possible in all kinds of warehouses, so that no warehouse is left behind.

For the first time ever, Movu will be presenting an end-to-end material flow live at LogiMAT and demonstrating how Movu’s automated subsystems can work together as a fully integrated solution.

The flow starts with the Movu escala, an innovative Shuttle solution which provides dense automated storage and retrieval for bins. Robot carriers move bins in all three dimensions within escala, every point of which is connected by a sophisticated rail track. The robots move along the rails in two dimensions throughout a level of the system and they can move between levels via ramps, in a similar way to a car driving to the next level of a multi-storey car park. This eliminates the need for maintenance-intensive conveyors, lifts, service aisle access and sequencers.

The bins are automatically delivered from inside the escala to a goods-to-person workstation, where the seamlessly integrated Movu eligo picking arm robot automatically piece-picks from a bin to place individual items into mixed SKU bins on a pallet placed on a Movu ifollow Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR).

Combining advanced software with intelligent grippers and machine learning, eligo, the latest member of the Movu product family, ensures reliable and high-performing throughput. The intelligent grippers ensure an accuracy greater than 99% and reduces the number of manual ‘touches’ required for order fulfilment or replenishment. Able to achieve 600 picks per hour, depending on the specific implementation, eligo can pick goods up to 2 kg and with dimensions of 1 cm minimum to a maximum of 30 cm. Being completely product agnostic gives it the flexibility to handle changing product mixes.

When the pallet is ready, the ifollow AMR transports it autonomously to the Movu atlas pallet shuttle sub-system. ifollow’s slimline design allows it to fit where other mobile robots will not and they can operate in cold stores, working in temperatures down to -25°C, moving to an ambient environment without any condensation. A customisable top lifter allows a variety of tasks to be performed and this versatile mobile robot can also support collaborative order picking operations.

The pallet carried on the ifollow is received at the highly efficient Movu atlas pallet shuttle sub-system, which is based on stow racking. Here, an atlas shuttle, which is a self-powered pallet carrier, moves it to a storage location. The atlas sub-system provides a high density, multi-pallet position deep Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS), which can also work in coldstores. With no need for lift truck aisles, storage capacity is maximised, and manual handling is replaced leading to a reduction in both personnel risk and picking errors.

Visitors will be able to see how Movu software coordinates and monitors the shuttles and mobile robots, ensuring a smooth flow of materials with realtime visibility of the system.

This unique performance demonstrates how Movu goes beyond a single robotics product to offer cutting-edge sub-systems in a symphony of seamlessly integrated solutions, which is not a futuristic concept but a practical, accessible reality. Movu’s goal is to upgrade the world´s warehouses through the power of easier automation. This creates a democratisation of automation to ensure that – irrespective of its size, shape, or use – no warehouse is left behind.

Stefan Pieters, CEO of Movu Robotics commented: “We are proud to present for first time ever an integrated end-to-end showcase with all Movu solutions. Following our brand launch in September last year, we are excited to see at LogiMAT all our products coming together in one place. Visitors will experience live our interpretation of ‘Easier Automation’ and how it helps to increase efficiency and improve profitability. Our experts will also be on hand to discuss how our solutions, which have improved efficiency for customers in a variety of sectors, can serve your requirements.”

Honeywell and Hai Robotics Collaborate

Posted on by David Priestman

Honeywell (Nasdaq: HON) today announced it will team up with Hai Robotics to deliver flexible, high-density storage and retrieval solutions to distribution centers (DCs). The alliance couples Hai’s innovative robotics technology with Honeywell’s Momentum Warehouse Execution Software, enhanced cybersecurity capabilities and experience integrating robotics solutions. Additionally, it supports Honeywell’s portfolio alignment to three compelling megatrends: automation, the future of aviation and energy transition.

“Companies face high costs for warehouse space, continued labor shortages and pressure to deliver goods quickly,” said Keith Fisher, President of Honeywell Intelligrated. “This automated solution allows them to maximize space in their existing facilities, increase productivity and best use their workforce. The combination of Honeywell and Hai Robotics delivers faster time-to-value than most traditional material handling storage and retrieval solutions, providing greater flexibility to meet changing demand and reducing execution risk for our customers.”

Hai Robotics’ autonomous case- and tote-handling mobile robotics (ACR) solutions, which automate item storage and retrieval and make the warehouse put-away and picking processes more efficient, use guided robots capable of reaching up to 32 feet high. These systems condense the required footprint to store goods and can operate within existing brownfield DC and warehouse sites, as well as in the back of retail stores for micro-fulfillment.

The ACR solutions store a variety of cases, totes, moving pallets and shelves, and can support e-commerce, automotive, third-party logistics and manufacturing operations. Hai robots can increase productivity by achieving typical throughput rates of approximately 500 pieces per hour (pph), compared to 100-250 pph without the use of robotics.

“Honeywell’s 30+ years of experience in supply chain automation technology development and deployment, robotics integration expertise and ability to complement our ACR technology through powerful software and support services make them an ideal partner for our company,” said Brian Reinhart, Chief Revenue Officer at Hai Robotics.

Hai Robotics solutions integrate with Honeywell’s Momentum Warehouse Execution Software, enabling DC operators to analyze real-time operating information across a DC and prioritize and redirect work as it is performed by both robotic systems and people, allowing for reduced costs and greater customer service levels.

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