The logistics robot for the automation of your warehouses

In order to improve productivity, to solve storage problems or to better manage stocks, many companies resort to warehouse automation. Indeed, a robotic solution allows toincrease the logistic performances ina global way. Want to know more? Find out all the important information about the logistics robot with RAJA.

What is logistics robotics?

Logistics roboticsis the use of an autonomous system or machine to automate various operations within a warehouse. Logistics robots are designed to provide assistance to operators. In particular, they play a role in :

• L’automating the flow of goods flows;
• The operator safety ;
• L’increase in productivity of the warehouse.

Indeed, robots are designed to operate autonomously in the warehouse. They are used tocarry out complex, costly or dangerous tasks for humans. Implementing a robotic solution is now essential, particularly because of the need for increased productivity, and at lower cost.

In fact, more and more companies are resorting to this solution. A McKinsey study estimates theannual growth rate of automation in warehouses at 23%. The logistics robotics sector is therefore booming.

The advantages of logistics robots

In order toimprove the supply chain and meet ever-increasing needs, companies are increasingly using logistics robots. Indeed, they offer many advantages.

Productivity at all levels

One of the main advantages of logistics robots is that they can perform all kinds of tasks in thewarehouse. There are various robots and machines designed to automate logistics operations. For example,logistics robots are useful for moving goods, receiving goods , and storing goods .

They are also used forstock management, order picking and shipping. Implementing a logistics solution can thereforeoptimise the performance of the company at all levels .

Cost reduction

Adopting a logistics solution in a warehouse can reduce production costs. The use of logistics robots makes it possible tooptimise volumes and storage space .

Thecompany’s fixed costs can be reduced byreducing the number of operators in the warehouse logistics department. Finally, logistics robotics offers more precise operations. The number of errors is reduced compared to manual goods handling.

Time saving

Automating logistics operations saves considerable time. This results inhigher productivity and efficiency. Indeed, with 24/7 operation possible, logistics robots make the work faster and less difficult for the operators. The advantage for the company is to obtain a greater competitiveness on the market.

Safety for operators

Finally, entrusting the handling of goods to logistics robots reduces the risk of accidents at work. This is especially true when the goods are heavy, bulky and require non-ergonomic postures or movements. Autonomous, the logistics robot carries out operations with precision, without risk of accident .

The different types of robots used in logistics

Depending on their needs, warehouses may need to use different logistics robots. Here is a list of robots that are usually found in warehouses.

Autonomous mobile robots

These robots, also known as AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots), are capable of moving products from point A to point B in complete autonomy. They analyse their environment thanks to the presence of sensors and automatic guidance software.

The autonomous mobile robots can thus follow the digital plans of the warehouse. AMRs can be divided into several categories, depending on the type of picking. They can be AMRs for picking from man to product, or AMRs for picking from product to man.

AGVs

Like AMRs, AVG vehicles are used to move goods from one point to another in the company. However, the navigation system used is different. AVGs follow a predefined path. These driverless trucks can be wire-guided or laser-guided.

Exoskeleton robots

These external skeletons are designed to enable employees tolift heavier loads without damaging their health. The exoskeleton robot is used for tasks where the human is not replaceable. Worn by employees, this type of robot protects the vertebrae and back muscles, among other things.

Robotic arms

Designed to simplify order picking, robotic arms have similar functionality to human arms. They are able to performrotational or translational movements as required. They work independently or in collaboration with operators. They are particularly used for handling heavy loads.

Pallet wrapping robots

Pallet wrappers offer considerable time savings and ease of use. Automatic or semi-automatic, these robots place stretch film around the goods. The aim is tofacilitate various logistical operations, such as transport or storage.

At RAJA, the wrapping machines with rotating arm and manual brake are designed to apply film without any physical effort.

The automated logistics sorter

This robot automatically checks, sorts and distributes the goods. The products are automatically fed into the logistics sorter and then directed to the right place. The advantages for companies using a sorting robot are time savings and higher productivity due to optimal throughput and continuous operation .

Automation allows several factors to be worked on to improve the efficiency of the warehouse. Robotic systems offer many advantages, such as increased productivity, time savings, improved safety and reduced risk of accidents. So, as consumer demand continues to grow, automation is gaining ground in the world of logistics.