Optimizing Your Warehouse with Goods-to-Person Automation

Optimizing Your Warehouse with Goods-to-Person Automation

Feb 21, 2023 | Automation, cost reduction, Robotics, space optimization

As eCommerce business continues to grow, customers are looking for even faster delivery of the goods they purchase. As such, businesses are constantly looking for ways to optimize their warehouses to speed up order fulfillment. One way to achieve this is through goods-to-person automation. This automation technology helps streamline the process of stocking, picking, and shipping items, allowing businesses to reduce labor costs and free up warehouse space.

Goods-to-person automation works by utilizing automated guided vehicles (AGVs) to move items from storage locations to human operators. The robots then drive up to an ergonomic workstation and present items in containers or on shelves for easy human pickup. By eliminating the need for humans to manually search for items on the ground or in shelving aisles, goods-to-person automation allows warehouse staff to work more quickly and efficiently. In addition to reducing labor costs associated with picking, goods-to-person automation also reduces energy costs associated with moving people around a warehouse facility. By using robots instead of manual labor, companies can save time and money by not having to pay employees overtime while they walk back and forth between storage locations. AGVs are more efficient since they can travel faster than humans can walk, reducing the overall time it takes for one pick cycle.

Goods-to-person automation also helps improve workflow within warehouses by freeing up space that was once used for storing inventory or materials on shelves or racks. These freed-up areas can be used for other purposes, such as stocking new products arriving from suppliers or staging larger orders prior to shipment. Additionally, goods-to-person automation increases safety within the workplace as employees no longer need to spend time searching through cluttered aisles of inventory or lifting heavy items off high shelves themselves — tasks that are easily accomplished by robots with minimal health risks involved.

Using goods-to-person automation helps businesses optimize both their labor force as well as their warehouse space usage — all while ensuring employee safety and enhancing customer satisfaction by increasing order speed and accuracy at scale. Companies should consider implementing these solutions if they want to maximize efficiency in their warehouses — especially those with large SKU counts and frequent customer orders.

ABCO Systems offers a variety of goods-to-person solutions that can easily be implemented into your warehouse with little to no disruption to your daily workflow. Contact us to see how goods-to-person technology can optimize your warehouse by decreasing labor and increasing space.

*Image depicts Addverb Technologies

Warehouse Automation: Keys to Efficient Storage and Retrieval

Warehouse Automation: Keys to Efficient Storage and Retrieval

Feb 14, 2023 | AS/RS, Automation, Robotics

If you are looking to increase the efficiency of your warehouse, automating your storage and retrieval may be the key to achieving an efficient process. Automated storage and retrieval can help improve accuracy and productivity while also reducing labor costs. With the right warehouse automation system, you can streamline your storage and retrieval process and get products in and out of your warehouse faster than ever before. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of warehouse automation and how it can help improve storage and retrieval for your business.

Goods-to-Person automation for storage and retrieval

Warehouse automation is the use of advanced technologies, such as robotics and automated storage and retrieval systems, to streamline the operations of a warehouse. This technology can provide improved accuracy and efficiency for a variety of warehouse tasks, from order fulfillment and picking to sorting and inventory control. Automation enables warehouses to handle larger volumes with fewer errors and lower labor costs, leading to faster turnaround times and improved customer service. Warehouse automation also helps to reduce the risk of accidents by eliminating manual labor. Automation helps ensure that goods are stored and retrieved quickly and safely, and it can help reduce costs by reducing the need for physical storage space and reducing labor costs. By automating the mundane tasks of the warehouse, employees are freed up to focus on more important tasks, such as customer service or problem-solving. Goods-to-person automation is a popular entry-level automation solution for storage and retrieval. This automation solution is used to move goods from one storage location to another using robotic or automated storage and retrieval systems. Goods-to-person automation is an efficient way to store and retrieve goods, as the system automatically finds and delivers the goods to a particular point within the warehouse. It can also be used to manage inventory, as the system can provide real-time information about the location of goods. By eliminating manual labor, goods-to-person automation for storage and retrieval can help streamline operations and increase warehouse efficiency.

The benefits of automating your warehouse

Warehouse automation provides a variety of advantages for businesses and facilities. Automated warehouses spend less time on mundane and repetitive tasks, such as manual stock picking, packing, and sorting. Automation also increases accuracy and efficiency by eliminating human error, thereby improving customer service and satisfaction. Automated warehouses also provide faster order fulfillment and improved inventory management, resulting in lower costs and higher profits. Furthermore, automated warehouses free up personnel to handle other tasks and duties. Automation also allows for better tracking of orders and items throughout the warehouse, allowing for improved monitoring of inventory and ensuring that all items are kept in the right locations. Finally, warehouse automation helps to streamline operations, reducing the time required to find and retrieve items from storage.

The key to efficient storage and retrieval

Efficient storage and retrieval of inventory is a critical element of warehouse operations. With the right automation, it can be a breeze. Automation can help to streamline the process of storing and retrieving goods from the warehouse and reduce manual labor. It also enables warehouses to track and store data about their products and locations more quickly and accurately.

The key to efficient storage and retrieval is having the right balance of automation and manual labor. On the one hand, automation allows for faster, more accurate movement of goods from one place to another, as well as providing real-time visibility into inventory levels. On the other hand, manual labor is still necessary for certain tasks such as packing, loading, and unloading.

Benefits of warehouse automation include increased efficiency and productivity, improved accuracy in order processing, reduction of labor costs, reduced manual errors, and improved customer satisfaction. Automation also makes it easier to manage large numbers of items and handle sudden spikes in demand.

The main challenge associated with automating storage and retrieval is that the equipment requires regular maintenance and updates to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, the installation of automated systems comes at a cost, and there may be a need to invest in additional training for employees.

Overall, efficient storage and retrieval is achievable with the right mix of automation and manual labor. Automation can enable warehouses to track and store data quickly and accurately while reducing manual labor, leading to increased efficiency, productivity, accuracy, and customer satisfaction. However, careful consideration should be taken when investing in automation as there are associated costs and challenges that must be taken into account.

How to automate your warehouse

Warehousing automation is a great way to streamline storage and retrieval operations, making them more efficient and cost-effective. But how do you get started?

One of the most popular entry-level methods of warehouse automation is goods-to-person. Goods-to-person automates order fulfillment by having robots or automated systems deliver items from storage areas directly to picking personnel, eliminating the need for people to walk around the warehouse. This not only reduces labor costs but also allows for increased accuracy in order picking and faster order turnaround times.

Another method of warehouse automation is automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS). These systems typically use automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and robotic arms to move items between shelves, into bins, and onto picking carts. ASRS can reduce labor costs by eliminating the manual handling of items and by speeding up the storage and retrieval process.

The latest generation of warehouse automation technology includes machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI). AI systems can be used to analyze data collected from the warehouse, allowing businesses to identify areas of improvement and maximize efficiency.

For smaller warehouses that may not be able to afford the latest technologies, simpler solutions such as voice-directed picking, radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags, and barcode scanning are still viable options.

Ultimately, the right warehouse automation solution will depend on your individual needs and budget. The key is to find a solution that meets your specific requirements while offering the best possible return on investment. As a Systems Integrator, ABCO Systems affords years of experience in the industry, coupled with the most innovative automation solutions to enable you to find the ideal solution for your unique situation. The ABCO Systems team of engineers and operations brings years of industry expertise along with longstanding relationships with the most innovative suppliers of warehouse automation solutions.  Find out how we can help you navigate your way into automating your warehouse. CLICK to view more on ABCO Robotic Technologies

*Image depicts Addverb Technologies

Choosing the Right Robotics Solution for Your Warehouse

Choosing the Right Robotics Solution for Your Warehouse

Jan 31, 2023 | ABCO Systems, AGV, AMR, Automation, Robotics

Robotics has the potential to revolutionize the distribution industry, improving efficiency, accuracy, and speed of operations. This article will explore the current state of robotics in distribution, the benefits and challenges of implementing these technologies, and the potential future of robotics in the industry.

Current State of Robotics in Distribution:

Robotics is already being used in a variety of roles within the distribution industry. These include tasks such as order picking, packing, sorting, and transportation. Some distribution centers have implemented fully automated systems, while others have adopted a hybrid approach, using robotics to complement the work of human employees.

One example of a company that has successfully implemented robotics in its distribution operations is Amazon. The company uses a variety of robotic systems in its fulfillment centers, including Kiva robots for order picking and transportation and Pegasus robots for sorting packages. These systems have allowed Amazon to improve efficiency and speed of operations, leading to faster delivery times for customers.

Benefits of Implementing Robotics in Distribution:

There are several benefits to implementing robotics in distribution operations. These include:

  1. Increased efficiency: Robotics can work 24/7 without breaks, allowing for uninterrupted operations. In addition, robots can perform tasks with high accuracy and precision, reducing the need for rework and correcting errors.
  2. Improved accuracy: Robotics can help reduce the risk of errors in tasks such as order picking and packing, leading to higher levels of customer satisfaction.
  3. Reduced labor costs: By automating tasks that are currently performed by humans, companies can reduce labor costs.
  4. Increased speed: Robotics can help speed up operations, leading to faster delivery times for customers.

Challenges of Implementing Robotics in Distribution:

There are also several challenges to implementing robotics in distribution operations. These include:

  1. High upfront costs: Implementing robotics can be expensive, with the cost of purchasing and installing the systems being a significant barrier for some companies.
  2. Lack of skilled labor: There is currently a shortage of skilled workers who are able to program and maintain robotic systems. This can make it difficult for companies to find the personnel needed to implement and maintain these systems.
  3. Complexity of operations: Distribution centers often have a high level of complexity, with a wide range of products being stored and shipped. This can make it difficult to implement robotic systems that are able to handle the diversity of tasks required.
  4. Limited adaptability: Robotics systems are not currently able to adapt to changes in operations as easily as human workers. This can make it difficult to respond quickly to changes in demand or shifts in the market.

The Future of Robotics in Distribution:

Despite the challenges, the future of robotics in distribution looks bright. As technology continues to improve and costs decrease, more and more companies will likely adopt robotics in their operations. In the future, it is possible that fully automated distribution centers will become more common, with robots taking on an even wider range of tasks.

Robotics has the potential to revolutionize the distribution industry, improving efficiency, accuracy, and speed of operations. While there are challenges to implementing these technologies, the benefits and potential for growth make it an attractive option for many companies. As technology continues to improve, we will see increasing adoption of robotics in the distribution industry.

ABCO Systems offers years of expertise and insight into product flow to help you navigate any challenges you may face in the design and implementation of automation and robotics in your warehouse distribution. We maintain relationships with the top robotics and automation solutions suppliers to help you find the right solution for your unique situation. CLICK for more information or a consultation on how we can help you increase efficiency and productivity in your warehouse.

 

*Image depicts robotic solutions from Addverb Technologies on display in the ABCO Systems Showroom and Training Center.

The Impact of Automation and Robotics: The Future of Warehousing

The Impact of Automation and Robotics: The Future of Warehousing

Jan 13, 2023 | ABCO Systems, AGV, AMR, Automation, order fulfillment, Robotics, Sortation, Uncategorized

Thank you to everyone who attended the DC Velocity webinar on December 15th, where we collaborated with our partner Addverb Technologies.  For those unable to attend, we are pleased to provide a link here where you can view the webinar.

For further information on how ABCO Systems can help you navigate your Automation and Robotics needs, CLICK HERE, and an ABCO Team member will contact you.

Click the box below to view the video.

AMRs vs AGVs: What are the key differences

AMRs vs AGVs: What are the key differences

Dec 13, 2022 | AGV, AMR, E-commerce, order fulfillment, Robotics

Over the past several years, as warehouse automation has become a necessity rather than a luxury, companies of all sizes have started investing more in warehouse robots. Using automated robots helps to streamline how goods are sorted and shipped, increases productivity, and raises the stakes of the game for warehouses throughout the country.

As demand for warehouse automation continues to grow, warehouses big and small are looking into which robots make sense for their warehouse. At ABCO Systems, we want you to understand the different options for robots and which solution might help take your warehouse to the next level.

AMRs

What are AMRs?

AMR stands for Autonomous Mobile Robot — a self-contained machine that can be programmed to carry out a wide range of material moving activities.

An AMR does not need human supervision thanks to sophisticated sensors and cameras that it uses to see. This gives it the ability to detect if a human or obstacle is in the way and move out of the way accordingly which helps keep warehouses safe even while introducing automation.

What can AMRs do?

  • Transport and sort goods
  • Help with the picking process
  • Manage inventory
  • Avoid collisions with humans, objects, and fixed structures

Benefits of AMRs:

  • Increases efficiency and productivity by eliminating the need for workers to complete repetitive, physical tasks
  • Frees up employees to focus on more important tasks
  • Streamlines picking processes which reduces human error
  • Saves time, cuts costs, and increases productivity
  • Can work safely with humans
  • Smaller than other machinery including forklifts
  • Can obey programming instructions
  • Can be deployed in minutes with proper route mapping

Types of AMRs:

  1. Picking and putting which picks up items and places them where they are needed
  2. Inventory management to track SKUs in real-time and alert the need to replenish low stock
  3. Transportation for bringing direct goods to their next stop

AMRs are dependable and can work for 12-15 hours before needing to be charged. A single robot can free up to two employees, allowing them to work on other more important jobs. If your team is constantly carting things around large areas, AMR technology will benefit your warehouse.

AGVs

What are AGVs?

AGV stands for Autonomous Guided Vehicle — an unmanned guided vehicle that completes automated repetitive tasks that help keep warehouses moving smoothly. AGVs move materials from one part of the warehouse to another, often delivered directly to processing lines via a predetermined path mapped by QR codes on the floor. By using an AGV, a warehouse is more likely to keep running smoothly rather than deal with delays due to waiting on humans.

What differentiates an AGV from an AMR is an AGV travels on a predetermined path and cannot make corrections to its path in real time.

What can AGVs do?

  • Transport raw materials
  • Deliver materials directly to production lines
  • Deliver materials without needing human interaction
  • Move materials to storage or retrieve items from storage

Benefits of AGVs:

  • Increases efficiency and productivity by eliminating the need for workers to complete repetitive, physical tasks
  • Frees up employees to focus on more important tasks
  • Streamlines picking processes which reduces human error
  • Saves time, cuts costs, and increases productivity
  • Can work safely with humans
  • Smaller than other machinery including forklifts
  • Can obey programming instructions

Types of AGVs:

  1. Carts that move around the facility and carry materials
  2. Tuggers which can pull carts with loads up to 50,000lbs
  3. Forklifts that can move paper rolls, coils, and more
  4. Unit-load that can move single products such as a pallet or bin
  5. Heavy haul that can move machinery up to 250,000lbs

How to choose between AMR and AGV

AGVs have been a warehouse staple for decades and were first introduced in the 1950s. Until recently, they were one of the only options for automating the repetitive tasks of bringing goods from one place to another. However, with the introduction of AMRs, their status as the primary warehouse robot is being challenged.

AMRs are more sophisticated, flexible, and cost-effective. They are also more autonomous when maneuvering and can detect objects and move around them or stop. For example, if an AMR detects a human moving towards it is trained to get out of the way while AVRs follow predetermined tracks on the floor and cannot adjust their path, even to avoid hitting a person or machine.

5 Differences between AMRs and AGVs:

  1. AMRs have better data collection than AGVs
  2. AMRs are safer than AGVs because AMRs can move around objects and humans in their path while AGVs cannot
  3. AMRs are more cost-effective than AGVs as it does not require changing the building infrastructure needed to create the predetermined paths AGVs use
  4. AGVs have a simpler control system and sensors than an AMR
  5. AGVs stick to their path while AMRs can become “lost” when crossing large expanses of floor space

We hope that this article was able to shed some light upon the differences between AGVs and AMRs. While Automation continues to become an integral part of warehouse operations, robotics may still feel like uncharted territory that is financially out of reach for many businesses.  Remember that the cost of robotics is highly dependent upon many factors.  As a Systems Integrator, ABCO Systems is at your service to help you navigate your way through the countless options in robotics and all other aspects of automation.

To learn more about if an AGV or AMR is right for your warehouse, or to set up a consultation to discuss your challenges and how we can offer solutions to fit your unique needs, CLICK HERE and an ABCO Systems Team member will put you in touch with the right team to make your dreams of Robotics a reality.