New Tech Service to Automate Warehouse Inventories

Telefónica Tech, Telefónica’s digital business unit, and Dexory, robotics and data intelligence company, have announced their alliance to promote automated warehouse management.

Both companies will combine their technological capabilities to digitally transform the logistics sector with an innovative service that combines Telefónica Tech’s IoT connectivity and its integration capabilities with Dexory’s AI-powered digital twin platform DexoryView.

DexoryView uses fully autonomous robots to gather vast amounts of data from warehouses. The robots use advanced optical cameras and LiDAR sensors. These sensors allow Dexory’s robots to measure distances and map spaces and are capable of scanning up-to 10,000 locations per hour.

The data gathered by the robots is analysed in real-time and visualised on the DexoryView platform thanks to Telefónica Tech’s IoT connectivity, providing powerful and accurate information of the inventory accuracy as well as suggestions on optimising the warehouse space. The robots deployed in the warehouse capture data in real time on the status, volume, dimensions and location of the items, using identifiers and barcodes.

Automate Warehouse Inventories

In addition, thanks to its integration capabilities and specialisation in the industrial sector, Telefónica Tech will be in charge of integrating this service with the customers’ Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) to synchronise and comprehensively manage all warehouse operations (location of materials, stock management, task and resource planning, goods in and out, demand planning, etc.).

Alfredo Serret, Global Director IoT at Telefónica Tech, explains: “The alliance with Dexory allows us to strengthen our portfolio of digital services for the industrial sector, which plays a key role in the country’s competitiveness. This service, which combines Dexory’s robotic technology and AI with our IoT capabilities, will enable logistics, distribution and manufacturing companies to simplify the warehouse inventory process by providing them with real-time visibility and accurate data”.

Oana Jinga, Chief Commercial and Product Officer and Co-Founder at Dexory, says: “As in all areas of business, data is key to driving businesses forward. With DexoryView, warehouse operators and managers are able to tap into rich data that will help them strategically guide their businesses forward and unlock new opportunities for them. Partnering with Telefonica Tech will allow Dexory to scale our solutions quickly in the Spanish market and unlock the power of real-time data in warehouses across the region.”

Total control and optimisation of operations

The launch of this service will revolutionize the daily activity of the logistics sector, which will move from having outdated inventory reports to automating the process to have total control of what happens in warehouses and be able to identify inefficiencies and optimize operations. Connected autonomous robots will reduce inventory errors and provide companies with more accurate data on which to base better business decisions. They will also speed up the search for empty locations so that space can be managed more efficiently and will also shorten the time taken to investigate and resolve problems such as the search for lost objects or the detection of erroneous product references.

The warehouse inventory automation service will help the sector to accurately forecast demand, stock and capacity, and will guarantee greater safety by delegating to robots many of the higher-risk tasks that employees have previously performed.

similar news

Autonomous Robots, Data Intelligence

 

New LiDAR Sensors more Powerful, Compact and Robust

Sensor supplier SICK has expanded its high performance multiScan and picoScan LiDAR ranges to make them even more powerful, compact and robust. With a variety of industry specific software applications that run on-device, SICK aim to take LiDAR sensor technology to new levels of performance, reliability and flexibility.

The modular multiScan 100 3D product family and compact picoScan 150 LiDAR sensors are customisable to suit a wide range of applications, with bespoke parameters, operation and integration. From robotic guidance and outdoor automation to SLAM, SICK’s sensor range is enhanced with new products and capabilities, including improved light performance and accuracy.

Select your variant: Configure your solution

SICK’s flexible 2D and 3D LiDAR product range and families are based on a common user environment and programming development platform. Fast data streaming, 2D and 3D object detection with field evaluation enhance the quality, security and usability of both the multiScan and picoScan. This enables companies to develop dynamic sensing profiles and scale their LiDAR capabilities, leveraging the data generated and customizing sensors to their specific applications and requirements.

Superior performance and robustness

SICK’s expertise in the field of 3D and 2D LiDAR technology enhances the robustness of both product ranges, improving accuracy, and providing ambient light immunity up to 100 klx (making them suitable for all lighting conditions). The picoScan and multiScan devices have a ruggedized design, with an anticorrosive coating, venting element and vibration resistance, making them resistant to shock, vibration and interference. Suitable for use in rough ambient conditions (such as fog, rain and bright sunlight) and harsh environments, both ranges have a selection of connectivity options and accessories designed for outdoor use.

The picoScan and multiScan products also have a contamination indication and the predictive maintenance system means sensors can notify the operator before the system is influenced.

Based on time of flight (ToF) technology, SICK’s high value multiScan range delivers high quality 3D with simultaneous multiple measurements individually configured for precise detection and localisation. The multiScan 3D LiDAR range’s unique combination of high-density horizontal layers and 3D point cloud offers outstanding measurement performance and advantage in real conditions, including wide-area environment perception on large machines and outstanding measurement accuracy for access protection in stationary applications. Capable of reliably detecting drop-off edges and obstacles ahead, the range is ideal for anti-collision and environmental perception to support autonomous driving for outdoor automation.

With no blind zone and superior detection of small objects at a distance, the multiScan 100 is a product family of 3D LiDAR devices with 3D object detection and contamination indication on board. The multiScan 136 builds on the capabilities of the multiScan 100 platform by providing 16 LiDAR layers, including two HD layers, 65° coverage at 360° and 30 m range all round. Meanwhile, the multiScan 165 has the highest detection capability in foggy, rainy and dusty conditions. It offers the same 16 LiDAR layers, but with a narrower coverage angle and range of up to 60 m, and the upcoming multiScan 165S will provide PLb and outdoor safety.

Small in size, big in range and performance

The next evolutionary step from the popular SICK TIM sensor, with higher data streaming speeds and more precise localisation, the picoScan 150 compact 2D LiDAR sensor is one of SICK’s highest angular LiDAR devices, with a rotary resolution of 0.05 degrees. The increased light suppression performance helps outdoor performance reach unprecedented levels. The multiScan family has a wide range of accessories, including mounting kits, connection boxes, gateways and reflectors. The picoscan 150 comes in three variants – Core, Prime and Pro, with a working range from 0.05 m up to 120m. Each model has a different specification to allow easy selection of a device for a specific application.

Easy to integrate into various environments, with a range of software interface options, the picoScan 150 is one compact sensor for multiple applications and it ticks all the boxes in terms of range, resolution, accuracy, field of vision, scan rate, power consumption and connectivity. Its high robustness is perfect for harsh and challenging applications, such as mobile platforms, outdoor automation, mobile robots, building security, interactive 3D studios, logistics automation and security protection.

Nathaniel Hofmann, SICK UK Market Product Manager – Machine Vision and Measurement Systems, says, “These are two great product families with new features and capabilities that expand the capabilities and possibilities of LiDAR sensor technology. We are continually growing and enhancing our LiDAR sensor range, based on a commonality of user environment that ensures products are easy to use, customisable, robust and consistent.

“We are winning high-profile projects because of the new light immunity and resolution capabilities of the picoScan and multiScan ranges, across a huge range of applications and industries; from robotics to interactive art installations, intelligent infrastructure to outdoor automation. Our modular, customisable sensors fit almost all applications, with the exceptional reliability and performance you expect from SICK.”

similar news

MultiScan Master Data Solution Available

 

Added value thanks to Autonomous Logistics Bot

The autonomous GESSbot Gb 350 from Gessmann sets new standards in intralogistics by optimising production processes through advanced automation. This autonomous mobile robot takes over human tasks, ensuring faster and more precise operations. Gessmann prioritises not only the seamless integration of machines, production lines, and storage systems but also the smooth interaction between people and machines.

New benchmarks

Automated Guided Vehicles are versatile in intralogistics, but these systems often rely on physically marked routes. The GESSbot Gb 350 stands out as it requires neither magnetic tracks nor complex environmental adaptations. Instead, this autonomous mobile robot (AMR) navigates precisely along the desired routes using LiDAR sensors and a digital map. This makes its behaviour predictable for people around it. It can adapt flexibly to new conditions, recognise and avoid obstacles, and transport loads of up to 350 kg through both wide and narrow passages. The GESSbot communicates with its surroundings via a sound system, display, and LED indicators. Its user-friendly interface and ‘expressive eyes’ make it an approachable and intuitive counterpart.

With a battery life of up to 12 hours, the GESSbot is typically sufficient for a standard working day. If the battery level drops below a specified limit, the GESSbot automatically searches for the nearest charging station. Thanks to inductive charging stations, such as those at loading and unloading points, it can also recharge during the working day.

Software and customisation

The flexible and efficient GESSbot solutions from Gessmann can be adapted to a wide range of applications. GESSbots can be integrated into various order control systems in the intralogistics sector, whether for simple round trips, connecting to existing systems, or full integration into MES or ERP systems. With the VDA 5050 interface, GESSbots can be managed alongside other autonomous vehicles within a single fleet management software. The software also facilitates the creation and customisation of environment maps and routes, ensuring smooth operations, especially for large fleets. Additionally, lifts, gates, and fire alarm systems can be integrated. The fleetmanager optimises order processing by considering factors like battery charge and distance to the destination. It can be easily operated via pushbuttons or touch displays.

Tailor-made automation solutions

Gessmann offers a broad range of automation solutions, enabling customised robotics for various industries. The GESSbots can be equipped with different attachments, such as shelves, while automated roller conveyors allow for seamless connection to conveyor belts. Collaboration with Techman Robot Inc. has led to innovative solutions featuring collaborative robots (cobots) capable of handling payloads from 5 kg to 35 kg. These cobots, characterised by their intuitive user interface, can be used flexibly with the GESSbot, such as for autonomous machine loading or safe collaboration with humans at assembly workstations.

similar news

Autonomous models for the warehouse

 

 

Scalable Mobile Robot Conveyancing Tech

LexxPluss is investing heavily in the US to provide its autonomous mobile robots (AMR) technology. The Japanese automation solutions provider has recently announced a new US demo space to showcase the capabilities of its flexible robotic fleet solutions and the flagship 30×30 ft facility is located in the Indiana IoT Lab, in Fishers, Indiana.

In addition to the demo space, LexxPluss has established a US subsidiary, opened a new US sales office in Indiana, and is expanding its team. Recent US hires include Business Development Manager Morgan Chang, and Project Manager Sandeep Chilukuri.

With its Lexx500 autonomous mobile robot and LexxFleet, the fleet management system, LexxPluss aims to solve problems by creating sustainability through the use of automation and other technologies. This includes adding value to intralogistics operations by reducing workload and improving the safety of workers at manufacturing, automotive, and logistics sites.

With a range of sensors, a multi sensor guidance system, easy to use interfaces, and open architecture, the Lexx500 AMRs are designed to be highly scalable and interoperable; from a single robot to a fleet of units working together safely and flexibly alongside existing automated systems and human workers. The low upfront cost and ability to transport irregular cargo and large payloads of up to 500 kg is ideally suited to manufacturing and logistics businesses.

Combining dynamism with experience to create sustainable materials handling

LexxPluss was created in 2020 by Founder and CEO Masaya Aso and a team of autonomous technology experts with decades of experience in the robotics and autonomous driving industry in companies such as Bosch, Amazon, and Honda. Its technology has been successfully deployed in Japan and the company was recently chosen by both EY for its Innovative Startup 2024 Award in Japan and by Forbes as one of 100 Japanese startups to watch in 2024.

Having secured Series A funding worth $10.7 million in 2023 for expansion in the US, LexxPluss is now leveraging its expertise and relationships in Japan. The company sees significant potential in the US, with market intelligence agency Interact Analysis forecasting the US mobile robots market will grow at a CAGR of 37% between 2023 and 2027, expanding from $1.1bn to $3.8bn.

Seamless integration, larger payloads and multi-sensor safety

A trio of products will be officially launched by LexxPluss at Automate 2024 in Chicago this May: the Lexx500 AMR, LexxFleet fleet management solution, and LexxTug towing interface. Each of the products being launched in the US has been renamed as part of LexxPluss’ commitment to achieving success in international markets (with the products previously called Hybrid-AMR, Konnectt and WaniGripper).

LexxPluss has equipped its mobile conveyancing robots with superior multi-sensor safety that combines LiDAR sensors, ultrasonic sensors and depth cameras to ensure they can operate safely and collaboratively with a human workforce. The company is also committed to open architecture, making its mobile robots easy to integrate with other systems and simple to maintain on-site.

Announcing the opening of the US demo space, LexxPluss COO, Rizo Itakura, says, “There is huge potential for greater automation in the US. Our products remove barriers to scaling up and integrating automation with existing systems. Customers can start with a single unit, using existing carts and production machinery to generate greater efficiencies and improve the working environment. Interested companies and potential partners are welcome to visit our demo space in Indiana, to learn first-hand how our solutions can help to create sustainable intralogistics operations.”

Morgan Chang, LexxPluss US Business Development Manager, adds, “We are excited to launch our new demo space and see this as part of our commitment to open mechanical design and transparent technical information sharing. This is something that sets LexxPluss apart, offering the highest levels of interoperability with existing systems and operations, alongside our determination to offer high levels of safety, reliability and scalability. I look forward to meeting potential new partners and customers at the LexxPluss stand at Automate 2024 (Booth #3076), where we will be showcasing our technology and officially launching a range of exciting products.”

read more

Robots Help Solve Japan’s Problem

 

Subscribe

Get notified about New Episodes of our Podcast, New Magazine Issues and stay updated with our Weekly Newsletter.