This episode of The New Warehouse Podcast features Heico Sandee, the Founder and CEO of Smart Robotics. Sandee shares the story behind Smart Robotics, a company focused on developing intelligent robotic arms for diverse warehouse applications. The conversation explores the evolution of robotic arms, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in logistics, and the generational shifts affecting the warehousing workforce. Sandee also discusses how Smart Robotics addresses operational challenges by blending human expertise with automation to create smarter and more adaptable warehouse environments.
AI-Driven Robotics for Warehouses
The rise of automation has seen warehouse technology shift from conveyors to AGVs, yet manual tasks still dominate. Sandee emphasized, “99.5% of manual warehouse tasks are still done manually.” Smart Robotics leverages AI to equip robotic arms with multifunctionality, enabling them to tackle complex tasks such as piece picking, palletizing, and depalletizing. This shift aims to replicate human flexibility in repetitive tasks, bridging the gap between traditional manual operations and cutting-edge robotics. Sandee explained, “We bring in AI to handle the variety of tasks, motions, and items robots need to recognize and manage.”
Navigating Workforce Generational Shifts
The generational transition in warehousing is undeniable. Baby boomers carry extensive industry knowledge, while younger generations demand innovation and adaptability. “This generation grew up with phones in their hands and expects ease of use and flexibility,” said Sandee. Smart Robotics creates systems that engage tech-savvy employees and enhance the skills of experienced workers. Robots and humans work side-by-side, allowing younger employees to “train robots to get better,” blending creativity with practical solutions. This collaborative dynamic addresses labor shortages in repetitive, physically demanding tasks while preserving institutional knowledge.
Ease of Integration: The Key to Scaling Robotics
For Smart Robotics, seamless integration is a top priority. “We don’t just deliver a robot; we deliver a complete system,” Sandee explained. By working closely with system integrators and end users, Smart Robotics ensures robots fit perfectly into existing workflows. From testing flow percentages to designing robust operational systems, the company simplifies implementation. Sandee highlighted a recent success: “We placed a robot in a warehouse that automates item picking and integrates with conveyors, addressing gaps left by previous manual processes.” This hands-on approach accelerates adoption to scale productivity.
Key Takeaways from Smart Robotics
- Manual tasks still account for 99.5% of warehouse operations, leaving significant room for robotic integration.
- AI enables robotic arms to adapt to diverse tasks, bridging the gap between human and machine capabilities.
- Generational shifts demand innovation that engages younger workers while respecting the expertise of older generations.
