modex Archives

Reliable, Customizable Shuttle System Introduced

Posted on 13 March, 202429 July, 2025 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.”

Automation: Key to Sustainable Warehousing

New Collaborative Robots at MODEX

Posted on 11 March, 202429 July, 2025 by David Priestman

Schneider Electric, a global leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, today announced the release of two new Lexium cobots (collaborative robots) at MODEX 2024; the Lexium RL 3 and RL 12, as well as the Lexium RL 18 model coming later this year. Schneider Electric innovations in robotics and motion will be on display at their booth, #B7232. From single-axis machines to high-performance multi-axis machines, the comprehensive Lexium line enables high-speed motion and control of up to 130 axes from one processor for precise positioning to help solve manufacturer production, flexibility, and sustainability challenges.

Schneider Electric goes beyond robots to provide fully integrated automation systems – digitally designed from concept to operation and maintenance. Integrating robots into the machine control solution through the EcoStruxure architecture enables collaborative data flow from shop-floor to top-floor, by connecting smart products, robots, controls, software, and services. Controlled by Modicon motion controllers, which unify PLC, motion, and robotics control functionality on a single hardware platform and integrated into of EcoStruxure Machine Expert software, it offers a complete robotic solution.

“As US manufacturing increases, the demand for smart machines is growing and customers are requiring robots with digital twin capabilities that validate machine performance to help them quickly increase production consistently, efficiently, and sustainably,” said Christine Bush, Robotics Center of Excellence Leader, Schneider Electric. “We are partnering with our customers to understand their challenges and pain points, then responding with complete, customized automation solutions – from power products and HMIs to PLCs and robotics – to simplify the process and meet their needs.”

Compatibility with EcoStruxure Machine Expert Twin, a digital twin software suite that creates digital models of real machines, allows for virtual test strategies and commissioning, as well as shortened factory acceptance testing (FAT). Digitizing these processes can reduce time-to-market by up to 50% and commissioning time by up to 60%. A 20-40% savings in investment costs can also be realized due to faster time-to-market.

Collaborative Robots

Lexium cobots are part of a full line of robotics and automation solutions developed to meet manufacturer needs across industries, including warehouse/logistics, life sciences, consumer packaged goods, and beyond. Benefits of Lexium robotics and motion solutions include:

• Fast deployment: Built on open automation standards and protocols, cobots offer flexibility, scalability, and easy third-party equipment integration. They can be easily applied to existing or new production lines in a variety of different industries.

• Streamlined integration: Enhanced computing power, open software, and networking technologies facilitate quicker assembly, installation, and maintenance of robots. A centralized architecture with a unified programming platform using open standards promotes seamless interoperability among automation systems, machines, and robots.

• Consistent output: Designed to handle repetitive tasks without errors or distractions, cobots can maintain Overall Equipment Effectiveness while manufacturing higher volumes of quality goods over shorter periods 24/7 without fatigue. This produces a consistent output with little variability over a given production batch.

• Workplace health and safety: Cobots perform well in harsh environments and can handle riskier operator tasks involving heavy weights to reduce accidents and injuries.

Amidst the rapid growth of US manufacturing, companies are increasingly seeking digital, efficient, and sustainable solutions to meet expanding output demands. Embracing Industry 4.0’s digitization, with advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, IoT, and digital twins, has become imperative to drive operational excellence. Software solutions are also playing a critical role in empowering manufacturers to innovate rapidly, reduce commissioning time, and stay competitive in this evolving landscape. As the industry transitions to Industry 5.0, the Lexium motion and robotics offers are poised to redefine efficiency and enable personalized autonomous manufacturing.

Optimizing the Expansion of Automation

Posted on 5 March, 202425 July, 2025 by David Priestman

As warehouse logistics become increasingly automated with a mixed portfolio of devices, robots and systems, the need to connect and orchestrate the various solutions is ever more urgent.
Consequently, the very latest multi-agent orchestration (MAO) technology, SnapControl, will be one of the main features at this year’s MODEX 2024 – at booth #A12509.

Developed by warehouse management technology innovator, Synergy Logistics, SnapControl offers a device-agnostic and unified approach to automation, seamlessly connecting all warehouse devices and robots in real time. It is suitable for both new (greenfield) and existing (brownfield) automated portfolios.

Synergy Logistics’ Chief Product & Delivery Officer, Smitha Raphael, said: “We are excited to have the opportunity to highlight SnapControl to visitors at this year’s MODEX event. By uniquely interpreting bi-directional communication between machines and advanced WMS, SnapControl facilitates efficient and accurate decision-making, which are critical components of the second wave of automation recognized by leading industry analysts.”

Multi-agent orchestration

The virtues of SnapControl have already been tested rigorously by a rapidly expanding US online retailer, resulting in a sixfold increase in productivity over the first few months of implementation. Having invested in a new 300,000 sq. ft warehouse, featuring automated mobile robots (AMRs), carton right-sizing equipment, and automated packaging systems, the retailer required a MAO that could generate real-time data and make smart decisions from those integrations, with little or no human involvement.

For this e-tailer, the return on investment (ROI) in automated resources has amounted to labour savings of over half a million dollars. On average, the company now saves over $40,000 per week, with an impressive investment payback period of just 23 weeks.

Raphael added: “Not all MAOs are the same, because while most providers can integrate with a host of software and robotics vendors, a simple connection is as far as it goes. A true MAO platform, such as SnapControl, is the conductor of the orchestra. It provides the why and where, while connecting and controlling all devices at once, for a complete 360-degree picture of your operation.”

Raphael and her colleagues are also offering practical 30-minute demonstrations at Booth #A12509 of the highly flexible and award-winning SnapFulfil WMS – showcasing how it can be changed or modified in minutes without custom code for quick and easy implementation and a rapid response to evolving fulfillment demands.

SnapControl – Warehouse Automation Connectivity

Kardex Introduces FulfillX at MODEX

Posted on 23 February, 202425 July, 2025 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.”

SVT and Kardex Partner for Pick and Pack

RFID MOT Station at MODEX

Posted on 13 February, 202429 July, 2025 by David Priestman

Clustag, an RFID-based technology solution for distribution centres and warehouses, a Trademark of Rielec, has announced that it will be presenting its patented MOT Station at MODEX 2024. The premier experience trade show for the supply chain industry, MODEX 2024 will take place between 11-14 March in Atlanta, Georgia. A full demonstration of the MOT Station will be available at Clustag’s booth B10005.

Clustag’s MOT Station is designed to provide the best reliability and flow data on the market. It can be fully integrated into processes and aggregates three key pieces of data: RFID identification, case volume and case weight during operation to improve the inventory management process. The technology can scan the contents of cases with dimensions up to 800x600x400mm, scanning 400 tags per case at speeds of up to 1,000 cases per hour. The RFID station has been UL-certified and CE-marked.

Clustag solutions are designed to prevent unwanted external readings and feature integral RF signal shielding. The MOT Station increases the accuracy of shipments and reduces losses, in addition to reducing additional costs and operating time. By scanning RFID tags in an enclosed space, the station can be used at full power – ensuring an accurate, reliable reading of all inventory.

In addition, Clustag also provides regular support on their systems so that high quality is maintained throughout the product life cycle. The RFID MOT Station allows integrators to install a solution that is robust, safe and requires only a specialised installer to deploy.

MOT Station

MODEX 2024 will mark the first time the MOT Station has been demonstrated to the public.

Manolo Reguart, Director of Strategy and Business Development, Clustag said: “The MOT Station can transform a business’s supply chain operations, driving inventory accuracy up to 99.92% and delivering reliable and robust warehouse automation. In a fast-moving environment, real-time inventory accuracy is vital. We hope attendees will share our enthusiasm for the potential of this device and its benefits when implemented in supply chains. We cannot wait to demonstrate the use case of our product at MODEX 2024”

HAI Debuts Cutting-edge Robot Systems

Posted on 23 March, 202225 July, 2025 by David Priestman

HAI ROBOTICS, a pioneer in Autonomous Case-handling Robot (ACR) systems for warehouse logistics, will present its highly flexible totes-to-person warehouse automation solution at this year’s MODEX 2022 show, Booth C4585 at Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta from March 28th to 31st.

With its robots being exhibited also by MHS, SVT Robotics, GreyOrange and Tompkins Robotics, the company will demonstrate alongside its strategic partners how its state-of-the-art warehousing technology complements the global supply chain.

Days ahead of MODEX 2022, HAI ROBOTICS announced new partnerships with Tompkins Robotics and Storage Solutions. The partnerships will see technology and solutions developed by HAI ROBOTICS being applied to various industries across North America.

Brian Reinhart, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at HAI ROBOTICS U.S., said the company would have a full display of its commitment to customers, partners and the U.S. market at the show after being in the market for over a year.

“It’s a very exciting time for HAI ROBOTICS as we continue our expansion and growth in the U.S.” he said. “In order to best serve the market and accommodate the requests of our end users, we are developing a robust, strong, and valuable partner network.” Reinhart, a veteran in the material-handling industry, says: “In a short time, we have planted deep roots in the US.”

In addition to existing customers and partners, HAI ROBOTICS has established a U.S. HQ in Fremont, CA, a fully functional Demo Centre with a decentralised sales and implementation strategy, positioning employees in 15 different states across the country. The company’s “ambitious goals have hiring, onboarding, and training of talented individuals as a top priority.” “We want to be where our customers are to best serve them. We are committed to providing our partners with the best industry products, solutions, and service,” he said.

Exhibits

The company’s exhibits this year include two types of ACR robots and one workstation that were crafted to explore the full potentials of order-fulfilment efficiency, deployment flexibility and scalability in a goods-to-person order-handling context.

The HAIPICK A42T robot to be displayed is an evolution of the company’s IFOY 2021 “Best in Intralogistics” title earner. With a telescopic lift function that can flexibly adjust its picking height, it can handle bins (totes or cartons) at a storage height ranging from 0.28 to 10 metres. It can carry eight loads to feed goods-to-person workstations in one move, and shuttle between different storage areas without hindrance.

The HAIPICK A3 fork-lifting robot is a new invention that targets wider warehousing scenarios in addition to bin storage. It handles goods that don’t require a container, such as tires, trays and boards that can be lifted by a fork from the bottom. Its fork-lifting design brings an extra benefit of higher storage density, since spaces between neighbouring bins can be reduced. This type of robot is a good match with working environments where control for dust, static and pollution is strict.

In addition to high flexibility, the HAIPICK robots outperform other goods-transporting robots by bringing every inch under the ceiling available for storage. However, it is the teamwork with the HAIPORT-powered Workstation that maximises a warehouse’s throughput capacity.

A HAIPORT-powered Workstation, which can fulfil orders at in-bound and out-bound, involves collaboration between HAIPICK robots, HAIPORT and conveyor belts. HAIPORT is an automatic loading and unloading machine that can be docked with ACR robots and conveyor belts. At a HAIPORT-powered Workstation, multiple loads of totes or cartons are unloaded from the HAIPICK robots at the entry side of the HAIPORT, then transferred onto the conveyor belts for sorting per system orders and moved to the exit side of the HAIPORT, where they were fetched by robots for the next round of order processing.

The HAIPORT-powered Workstation is suitable for medium-to-large warehouses that have high throughput requirement of at least 400 bins per hour. It’s machine rate can deliver 600 bins per hour to an operator. It suits for extensive storage scenarios in which medium and small-sized bins are used, such as raw materials, small electronics, apparel, medicine, retails and 3PL industries that have large number of SKUs.

Honeywell and Hai Robotics Collaborate

Rockwell to showcase virtual warehouse at MODEX

Posted on 2 March, 202225 July, 2025 by David Priestman

Rockwell Automation, Inc., the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, is doubling down on its commitment to the warehouse and fulfilment industry by exhibiting for the first time at MODEX 2022, in Atlanta, on March 28th-31st. The company will demonstrate its proven solutions designed to help customers’ operations be more intelligent, connected, and productive.

“Emulate3D is excited to be exhibiting together with its parent company, Rockwell Automation, for the first time at MODEX, to demonstrate Rockwell’s game-changing automation and digital twin supply chain solutions in-person,” said Linda Freeman, manager, regional industry, Rockwell Automation. “We look forward to joining nearly 20 of our OEM, system integrator, and technology partners in Atlanta to showcase Rockwell’s technologies in booths throughout the show floor and provide attendees with an unforgettable, interactive experience.”

MODEX attendees can stop by Rockwell’s booth (B6611) to experience the newest and most innovative technology in the industry. Some of the technologies that will be on display that attendees can interact with and experience first-hand include:

Emulate3D Simulation Station: See how MODEX veteran, Emulate3D, Rockwell’s digital design software, can reduce time to market, improve start up reliability and enable scenario planning. The ease of use is clear as 3D warehouse drawings are modified in real time in the booth.

MagneMover LITE Intelligent Conveyor Demo: A smart, frictionless transport system designed to move loads quickly and efficiently. See it deliver flexible routing and high-speed sorting in a small, low-maintenance footprint. Includes an AR workforce demo.

Armor PowerFlex Drives (pictured): The next generation of space-saving motor control will debut at MODEX. This modular solution features built in safety, is ideal for a wide range of environments and size requirements, and provides real-time data to the enterprise.

Interactive Virtual Warehouse: Attendees can dive into this interactive experience and explore videos and demos of the latest warehouse and logistics solutions like independent cart technology, digital facility design, unified robotic control, and more.

In addition to its own booth, the latest Rockwell solutions will be on display across MODEX in nearly 20 of its PartnerNetwork member booths. For example, Rockwell’s Technology Partner, Comau is showcasing an independent cart technology, Rockwell-controlled robot demo in its booth (B9632). Additionally, FlexLink Systems, Inc., a gold level OEM partner, will feature a full pharma sort system simulation based on Rockwell’s MagneMover LITE in its booth (B1007).

“I’m excited about the possibilities that a major, well-known, well-established company like Rockwell can bring to this space,” commented Tandreia Bellamy, founder of TB Supply Chain Consulting and former global logistics executive. “From building a digital twin to do real, what-if scenarios, to independent cart technology that truly pulls products through a warehouse, they’re really looking at it from end-to-end.”

Rockwell says those who experience its game-changing solutions first-hand at MODEX will learn how their warehouse and logistics operations can become more connected and efficient.

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