MiR appoints Mark Joppru VP of Sales for the Americas
Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR) has announced that Mark Joppru has joined the autonomous mobile robot (AMR) first mover and global market provider as the vice president of sales for the Americas. The former VP of ABB USA’s Consumer Segments and Service Robotics division started May 2, joining an organization that experienced a 42% increase in sales in 2021 over 2020 and 22% growth in the first quarter of 2022 alone. “The autonomous mobile robot business is exploding, with more companies from even more industries deploying large fleets as they realize the big benefits they can bring to their organizations,” Joppru said. “MiR’s safe, reliable and easy-to-deploy mobile robots improve efficiencies and productivity, especially important as so many continue to struggle with a disrupted supply chain and ongoing labor shortages. The potential is massive as more invest in improving their supply chains and logistics processes, and I look forward to helping MIR continue to lead the way in meeting our customers’ challenges.” Prior to joining MiR, Joppru worked at ABB USA, starting in 2017 as the lead for ABB Motors and Mechanical sales team in the US before being tasked as VP of sales for the Consumer Segments and Service Robotics division in 2020. In his latest role, he was responsible for business leadership, sales, and customer experience. Before ABB, Joppru served for 25 years in multiple sales leadership roles at Rockwell Automation, including industry sales director for China and Latin America and global director of automotive sales. Joppru holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Milwaukee School of Engineering and a master’s degree in industrial distribution from Texas A&M University. “Mark’s decades of experience in industrial automation and sales management makes him an invaluable leader for our growing team and customer base here in the Americas,” said Thomas Knudsen, chief commercial officer for MiR. “Not only does he know mobile robots, but he understands the challenges customers from myriad industries continue to face and has already demonstrated creative ways that we, along with our partners, can solve them. The Americas remains in highly capable hands.” Joppru replaces Ed Mullen, who after nearly six years with MiR left to seek new challenges with the software company Dexterity.
EP 276: Supply Chain, A Family Affair at Open Sky Group
In this episode, I was joined by the father-daughter duo of Dave and Maddie Haley. They are both in the supply chain with Dave being from Open Sky Group on the solutions side and Maddie being from Genuine Parts on the continuous improvement side. We discuss their reactions to MODEX and the current warehousing environment. Key Takeaways When I featured Dave on the podcast at MODEX he mentioned that his daughter was also in attendance so I knew I had to get them together on the microphone. Dave provides supply chain solutions through Open Sky Group and his daughter has followed in his footsteps and is working for Genuine Parts helping to improve their distribution operations. Maddie was in attendance at MODEX as someone who is shopping for solutions so I thought it would be interesting to get her perspective. Overall, both Dave and Maddie had the same thoughts on their reaction to MODEX. While it is great to see all of the technology advancements and automation, they are concerned that companies will not fully optimize before they get to the point where they really should be utilizing automation or robotics. As we discuss, you don’t want to be stuck with robots sitting in the corner of your warehouse collecting dust. If you are going to move to automation you have to ensure that your processes are as optimized as possible first. Another great highlight is the growth that Maddie has experienced in the supply chain. She was able to get into a rotational program through Genuine Parts and has been able to experience multiple different aspects of the supply chain. She gives some great advice for students who are undecided on whether the supply chain is for them or are going to be graduating in the near future. Listen to the episode below and leave your thoughts in the comments. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 276: Supply Chain, A Family Affair
BionicHIVE announces new investment to help advance emerging Robotics Technologies in supply chain
The Amazon Industrial Innovation Fund invests in BionicHIVE to address a key challenge in the fast-growing supply chain emerging technology industries. BionicHIVE will use the investment to grow its team, increase the footprint of its U.S. operations, and expand its customer base BionicHIVE, which enables a new age of robotics innovation, has announced that it received funding from the newly announced Amazon Industrial Innovation Fund aimed at investing in emerging technologies. BionicHIVE has developed the SqUID robotics solution, which combines flexibility with safety and efficiency to solve customer operation challenges within a warehouse environment. Warehouses are rarely static environments with the uniformity and predictability necessary for traditional solutions. SqUID is deployed in a wide range of supply chain facilities utilizing existing shelving racks and boxes and is capable of picking and putting away from the floor to ceiling. “The purpose of the Amazon Industrial Innovation Fund is to support emerging technologies through direct investments, designed to spur invention and solve the world’s toughest challenges across customer fulfillment operations, logistics, and supply chain solutions,” said Katherine Chen, Head of the Amazon Industrial Innovation Fund. “Amazon has recognized BionicHIVE for its differentiated solution capable of optimizing safety around repeated tasks, at any height, in the supply chain workplace, and this is the kind of technology that’s pulling innovation forward.” SqUID’s fleet of autonomous robots provides a one-stop solution that works alongside the warehouse workforce. The ability to string together and streamline multiple operations across the warehouse with robotics, orchestrated and controlled by a smart algorithmic engine, is a key differentiator. SqUID eliminates the rigid operational and financial requirements of traditional automation and requires no start-up costs. “With Amazon’s funding and support, BionicHIVE is growing its team and operations, establishing US footprint to expand its customer base and scale go-to-market, as well as increasing R&D,” said Ilan Reingold, CEO at BionicHIVE. “We couldn’t have asked for a better company whose investment is a validation of the unique approach and capabilities of our platform and whose guidance is invaluable,” Reingold added.
Podcast EP 275: Procensis at MODEX 2022
In this episode, I was joined by Ed Kennedy of Procensis at MODEX 2022. Procensis is focused on turning your employees into warehouse superheroes by utilizing different mobile solutions. We discussed what Ed was seeing at the show being a veteran of the industry and what that means for us going forward. Key Takeaways One of the big things that Ed points out is the amount of robotics that has come into play in our industry. As he reflects on the multiple years of MODEX that he has attended, he says that this is the first time where he has seen so many robots. I think this show made it pretty evident that robotics is here to stay in our industry and it is only expanding. When we look at ways to improve our operations and help address labor concerns these forms of automation are certainly a direction to go in. Procensis is very focused on mobile devices for picking and doing other tasks in the fulfillment and distribution industries. Ed’s perspective on the future of wearable devices is that smart glasses are going to be coming up and gaining more traction. While we have seen a few iterations of these here on the podcast, Ed discusses how these are evolving to be more comfortable for the user. Additionally, the battery is becoming more usable and practical on these devices. This is a great thing because with battery life you can utilize these more effectively and efficiently. Another big thing for Procensis is developing more gamification for employees to help motivate them and give them real-time insights into their productivity. Ed discusses how many companies are moving to an incentive-based system whether it is a bump in pay for hitting certain thresholds or giving them rewards based on their productivity which relies on having accurate data. Procensis is putting in place visibility to the number of picks and scans right on the screen for the user. This gives them an idea of where they are at and allows them to pick up their pace if they are not quite where they need to be. Listen or watch the episode below and leave your thoughts in the comments. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 275: Procensis at MODEX 2022
Muratec
T3 Motion
AutoStore
Below Expectations: Employers not meeting Training Expectations of Workers
While 80% of employed U.S. adults consider an employer’s professional development and training offerings an important consideration when accepting a new job, just 39% say their current employer is helping them improve their current skills or gain new skills to do their job better, according to results from the latest American Staffing Association Workforce Monitor® online survey conducted by The Harris Poll in late October and early November 2021. Job training programs put employers at a competitive advantage when recruiting job candidates from all generations. Among those employed, 84% of Millennials view an employer’s professional development and training offerings as important considerations when accepting a new job, along with 79% of Baby Boomers and 79% of Generation X. Seven in 10 of those in Generation Z (70%) share this view. Meanwhile, many employees said they were not receiving from their employers the skills training needed to maintain or grow their careers. Just 31% of Baby Boomers said their employer is helping them improve or expand their skillset, compared with 50% of Millennials, and 33% of those in Generation X. Of Generation Z employees, who comprise the newest members of the workforce, just 37% said their employer was helping them improve or expand their skills to do their job better. “For employers looking for an edge in 2022, investing in training and development could make the difference in competing in the war for talent,” said Richard Wahlquist, President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Staffing Association. “Employees are looking to employers to provide the job training they need to elevate their careers. During the Great Resignation, if an employer is not willing to train and upskill its workforce, those employees may begin to look for an employer that will.” The study also found concern among some U.S. workers about the effects of automation on their employability, with 37% worrying that automation will cost them their jobs. Nearly half of Hispanic/Latino employees (49%) worry that automation will eliminate their jobs, compared with 35% of Black/African-American employees and 33% of White/Caucasian employees. In addition, 52% of Millennial workers expressed worry about their job security due to automation, compared with 40% of Generation Z employees, 30% of Generation X employees, and just 20% of Baby Boomer employees. “The acceleration of automation due to the pandemic has only increased the importance of employer investments in workforce training and development,” added Wahlquist. Method This survey was conducted online within the U.S. by The Harris Poll on behalf of ASA between Oct. 28 and Nov. 1, 2021, among a total of 2,042 U.S. adults age 18 and older of whom 1,054 were employed. Results were weighted for age within gender, region, race/ethnicity, household income, education, marital status, and size of the household where necessary to align them with their actual proportions in the population. Propensity score weighting was also used to adjust for respondents’ propensity to be online. About the American Staffing Association The American Staffing Association is the voice of the U.S. staffing, recruiting, and workforce solutions industry. ASA and its state affiliates advance the interests of the industry across all sectors through advocacy, research, education, and the promotion of high standards of legal, ethical, and professional practices. For more information about ASA, visit americanstaffing.net.
EP 274: Verses at MODEX 2022
In this episode, I was joined by the President of Verses, James Hendrickson, at MODEX 2022. James and I reconnected after three years to learn about his new role at Verses which is focused on bringing spatial intelligence into the supply chain. We discuss why digital twins are so important in the supply chain and what they can help us to achieve. Key Takeaways Verses is focused on bringing the spatial web to enterprises through a robust suite of technologies that have been developed with the Spatial Web Foundation. As James breaks it down, it is really focused on the digital twin or the duplication of our physical space into a virtual one. Harnessing these technologies can really help to advance your organization in a sophisticated way and prevent potentially costly mistakes. As we look at the sheer number of innovations and technologies at MODEX this year, there is a need to be able to implement these virtually before we do things physical to ensure operations will still flow properly. What does it mean to duplicate virtually? As James explains, this is the metaverse for the supply chain. With the technology, you are able to create your operation and adjust things with the ability to know where everything is. It’s almost like making an AutoCAD come to life which can allow you to have better visualization into what your operation could potentially look like or where obstructions might be. There is a lot of potential for this technology in our space and James gives a few examples of how they may partner with companies to give them better visibility and capability. One of Verses offerings is Wayfinder which is a spatial picking platform that allows your employees to be navigated throughout the facility. The technology knows where everything is and is essentially guiding the picker as a GPS would. The benefits of this are that the employees are getting the most optimized pick path every time and they are not getting lost or losing track of where the location is. This takes creating an efficient pick path to a whole new level. Listen or watch the episode below and leave your thoughts in the comments. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 274: Verses at MODEX 2022
Kollmorgen introduces a new generation of Robot-Ready Frameless Servo Motors
Kollmorgen, a global provider in motion control systems, has announced the new TBM2G series of frameless servo motors, introducing features that simplify the design of collaborative, surgical, aerospace and defense, and other robots while delivering optimal performance in a lighter, more compact package. These new motors will complement Kollmorgen’s existing TBM and KBM series of frameless motors. Resulting from several years of research, testing, and customer feedback, the TBM2G series offers high-performance torque in an extremely compact electromagnetics package. These next-generation motors enable robots with lower joint weight, higher load-carrying capacity, improved energy efficiency, lower thermal rise, and faster, smoother movements. Frameless torque motors typically deliver their best performance at low speeds but suffer at higher speeds. TBM2G motors remove this limitation through advanced windings and materials that deliver industry-leading power, torque, and efficiency consistently across a wide speed range. TBM2G motors also remove the sizing limitation that engineers often face when using off-the-shelf strain wave gearing, also known in the robotics market as harmonic gearing. The new TBM2G series motors are sized for a perfect fit with readily available strain wave systems, eliminating the need for extensive customizations that can increase engineering time and cost while potentially leading to supply and quality issues when robots enter full production. The TBM2G series is available in seven frame sizes with three stack lengths each—a total of 21 standard motors that can be integrated directly into robotic joints and similar embedded equipment. Typical applications are collaborative robots in the 3–15 kg range, powered at 48 VDC and below. These motors are designed to perform at high speeds without exceeding the 80°C limit typically needed to safeguard humans working in proximity to cobots and to prevent degradation of grease and electronic components. And they’re available with thermal sensor options to meet the requirements of drives and control systems used in the cobot market. Kollmorgen is highly tooled up to deliver TBM2G motors globally, at any volume, with fast production times, reliable quality, and local co-engineering support. “We’re excited to introduce new servo motors that significantly increase overall performance while reducing size in a wide range of frameless applications,” said Jeff Czarnecki, Vice President, Global Marketing at Kollmorgen. “And we’re particularly excited at the possibilities the TBM2G series opens up for robotics. TBM2G motors are a perfect fit for a new generation of high-performance cobots,” Czarnecki said. “They are truly robot ready.”
AutoStore™ accelerates international growth with new Singapore office
Warehouse automation company, AutoStore, just announced the opening of its new Singapore office. The location will serve as the local hub for AutoStore in the Asia-Pacific region as the company positions itself to serve both local partners and clients while adapting to meet the growing demand for Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) in the region. The new Singapore office builds upon the company’s existing presence in the area. Currently, AutoStore has installed its innovative cube storage systems at seven sites in Singapore through its partner network. The new location will allow AutoStore to seamlessly work alongside both its local partners and clients. “This new office in Singapore gives us the opportunity to interact more closely, directly, and personally with our Asia-Pacific clients and partners than ever before,” said Philipp Schitter, Vice President of Business Development Asia-Pacific at AutoStore. “It is clear that the demand for automated warehouse solutions is growing, especially as e-commerce continues to be a driving force for innovation. We’re pleased to expand our global presence to meet customers where they are at.” AutoStore plans to hire for several key positions to be based in the Singapore office, as well as offer demonstrations of its robotic solutions at the new facility in the coming year.
It’s an Automation Boom creating big opportunities
Demand for shorter lead times needs for quality products and staffing shortages. It’s an equation resulting in increased automation in material handling warehouses. “We have experienced demand from customers for shorter delivery times. There is a higher expectation, not only for quality but to get products within hours to the door,” said Carlos Fernández, chief product officer at AutoStore, a warehouse automation company. One way to achieve these goals is to move inventory closer to the customer, Fernández said. But in greater population centers, real estate is typically at a premium. This month, Material Handling Wholesaler examines some of the latest automation innovations designed to help companies succeed, as well as some of the trends shaping the industry. Robots reaching higher AutoStore’s recently announced the arrival of its R5+ Robot in the company’s “Red Line.” This addition to the AutoStore Robot fleet enables warehouses to manage larger items, because the R5+ is able to handle bins up to 425 millimeters, the tallest in the AutoStore system, according to a company press release. Previously, this was a premium feature possible only with the AutoStore B1 Robot installations, or the “Black Line.” The company, which has been developing cube storage for more than 20 years, has long focused on helping customers lower their fulfillment costs, according to Fernández. He said making the R5+ Robot available through the company’s cost-effective Red Line allows businesses around the globe the flexibility to select the most appropriate line for their needs. “There has been a big demand for this type of application,” said Fernández, who said that apparel companies have been particularly interested in using the AutoStore 425-millimeter bin line. Fernández said AutoStore customers view the Red Line as “a very solid and proven” technology. “Our customers really like it,” he said. “We have seen a very positive demand from both our distributor network and customers.” The goal of AutoStore is to continuously upgrade the technology to extend the capabilities of both the hardware and software. By making the robotic technology widely accessible, Fernández said AutoStore is helping customers automate new sections of warehouses, allowing for the driving of more inventory and increased productivity. Material handling warehouse management typically is looking to “save as much space in their current operation so they can continue to grow. To think faster and be more productive,” Fernández said. “We want to allow them to stay competitive. All the way to the end clients.” At The Raymond Corp., the Automated Transtacker (Automated TRT) was recently released, with an ability for a high vertical reach. “It’s an industry-leading product,” said Martin Buena-Franco, product marketing manager of automation at Raymond. The Automated TRT can be operated 24/7, according to Buena-Franco. It has dual-mode operation: automated mode for full pallet moves and manual mode for case picking. “With no need for operator breaks, this means more hours and the floor and more pallets moved per shift, increasing productivity,” a company release said. The Automated TRT also integrates into the customer’s warehouse management system and while it requires some human interaction, does not require regular maintenance. “You still need to train the operator to set up the automatic mode, to introduce to the system at the beginning of the shift,” Buena-Franco said. “And there are few other safety training things you train the customer or end-user on.” Still, many of the safety features are simply built in to the Automated TRT. The transtacker is a solution for very narrow aisles and is being used by Raymond’s customers in apparel, warehousing, packaging and plastics, and others. “A lot of times the customer, because they don’t have the room to expand the distribution center, they build up instead,” Bunea-Franco said. At FORT Robotics, the Nano Safety Controller was released this spring. The controller is an embeddable board allowing customers to build FORT wireless communication and safety technology into their machines. It can receive trusted commands, or dependable messages like stopping, sprinting, crawling, or changing in the state, via patented technology, a press release said. “Until now, customers who wanted our trusted command technology have had to use our bolt-on hardware. That’s not always ideal for every project,” said Nathan Bivans, FORT CTO, in the statement. “With the NSC, we can provide a solution that’s smaller, more flexible, more integrated, and cost-effective.” Labor shortage Worker shortages are driving the automation trend due to the cost of labor and a generational shift, Buena-Franco said. “The baby boomers a few years from now, are going to be all out of the workforce,” he said. “We don’t have enough young people coming in. It’s just the numbers. We need to find ways to automate. ”Fernández agreed. Automation advances like the R5+ Robot can assist in filling the ongoing labor gap and in meeting the growth of e-commerce following the pandemic, according to Fernández. “We definitely are seeing that the labor shortage is driving a lot of the automation push and demand for technology,” he said, adding that the advancement of the technology can provide improved safety and provide a draw for the workforce. “Technology like that from AutoStore is allowing retailers to bring workers into a better work environment,” he said. “From a safety standpoint, there is no need to walk longer distances. The goods will come to where they are. We have also seen how retailers are using technology to attract more talent into their operations,” said Fernández. “There is greater importance in knowing how (a company) relates to sustainability. Brands want to have a statement out there,” he said, noting how the use of AutoStore technology can assist a business in using space efficiently. “Space is always a key driver,” said Fernández, who said that AutoStore technology is also designed to be user-friendly, helping address labor turnover. “It is very easy to use. It takes maybe 30 minutes to understand how the workstation works,” he said. “It’s very fast and intuitive.” The system can be monitored by a designated supervisor or superuser in-house. The Future Fernández can envision automation technology eventually moving directly into retail spaces. This would free up
MHS and Fortna to combine to create global eCommerce and Logistics Automation leader
MHS Global (“MHS”), a global provider of material handling automation technology and systems integration, and Fortna (“Fortna”), a software and solutions provider for warehouse and distribution, will combine to form a multi-billion-dollar, multinational company providing parcel, warehouse and distribution, and lifecycle services. MHS and Fortna belong to the investment portfolio of Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. (“THL”), a premier private equity firm investing in middle-market growth companies. THL will remain the majority owner of the combined company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (“ADIA”) will acquire a significant minority stake to support the combination. As businesses increasingly require improved throughput and faster execution, there is heightened demand for automation, advanced operating software, and services. The combination of MHS’s automation technologies and Fortna’s operational optimization software, in addition to each company’s deep industry partnerships, serves the need for end-to-end solutions in logistics operations. Customers will benefit from the breadth and depth of both companies’ offerings: industry-leading capabilities in a parcel, cross-docking, conveyance, and sortation solutions combined with industry-leading orchestration and optimization software and unique operational designs leveraging advanced automation to drive greater efficiencies and cost savings for customers. “MHS has built its reputation over the past 20-plus years by being a reliable and committed partner while expanding our capabilities and taking a progressive, tech-forward stance to deliver new products and solutions,” said MHS CEO Scott McReynolds. “Combining with Fortna will allow us to accelerate our collective efforts on all fronts, to the benefit of our customers, employees, and suppliers.” “Fortna has been a trusted advisor driving competitive advantage for our clients as they build direct-to-consumer models, increase service levels, and enable a lower cost to serve,” said Rob McKeel, CEO of Fortna. “The combination with MHS will enable the model to scale with our clients globally and allow the combined company to drive further innovation in operating models, software, and automation.” Upon closing, McKeel will become the CEO, and McReynolds will become the President, of the combined entity. Hamad Shahwan Al Dhaheri, Executive Director of the Private Equities Department at ADIA, said, “MHS and Fortna are leading players in their respective industries, and their combination will create a significant operating platform for the company to deliver automation solutions to customers on a global scale. This transaction aligns with our approach of making investments alongside proven partners in support of technology leadership.” Jim Carlisle, Managing Director at THL and head of both Technology & Business Solutions and the THL Automation Fund, said, “We look forward to working with the talented management teams and employees of Fortna and MHS as we continue to drive excellence in logistics automation. Automation solves industry-wide challenges, such as labor shortages, and helps customers meet escalating demand. These two companies are well-positioned to meet these challenges and unlock new opportunities for their customers.” Carlisle will serve as board chairman of the combined company. This transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and RBC Capital Markets, LLC served as financial advisors to MHS. Baird served as financial advisor to Fortna. Kirkland and Ellis served as legal advisor, respectively, to both companies. J.P. Morgan Securities, LLC will lead the debt financing for MHS. J.P. Morgan Securities, LLC and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP served as financial and legal advisors, respectively, to ADIA’s subsidiary.
EP 272: SVT Robotics at MODEX 2022
In this episode, I was joined by A.K. Schultz at MODEX 2022 to discuss his company, SVT Robotics. SVT Robotics is focused on allowing automation solutions to function together in the same operation through their Softbot Platform. We discuss one of the big problems with automation integrations and how SVT Robotics is solving that problem. Key Takeaways A.K. was sure to start off our conversation by discussing the problem in automation which is one that has been multiplied by the number of solutions now available. He points out that with so many automation solutions coming into our world, they are from multiple different companies and they need to communicate. In addition to this, getting these solutions to communicate can be complicated at times, and companies that do not have the resources are simply not equipped with programmers that can handle making these integrations work. SVT Robotics has set out to simplify this and make this a reality for all companies. SVT Robotics has developed their Softbot Platform which helps to solve this problem. It provides the code already written for each solution that is requested (with many already in the database) and puts it in an easy drag and drop format. This gives access to companies of all sizes and skillsets to easily integrate multiple different automation solutions into their operation. Listen or watch the episode below and leave your thoughts in the comments. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 272: SVT Robotics at MODEX 2022
Industrial automation partner Gibson Engineering bolsters Kassow Robots’ position in US Manufacturing
Kassow Robots, a developer of 7-axis cobot solutions for machine tending, material handling, and related applications, has partnered with Gibson Engineering (Norwood, Massachusetts, USA), a subsidiary of Applied Industrial Technologies. Gibson Engineering is a value-added distributor of automation solutions serving manufacturers in all industries in the northeastern U.S., from Maine to Maryland. The KR series of lightweight 7-axis collaborative robots supplements Gibson Engineering’s solutions to efficiently complete light manufacturing operations in the medical, semiconductor, and electronics industries. “Gibson Engineering’s long-established operation gives Kassow Robots the opportunity to work with world-class manufacturers in the U.S. that can benefit from strong, fast, and simple cobots,” says Dieter Pletscher, the head of global sales at Kassow Robots. The 7-axis cobots offer speed and power combined with a long reach and a high degree of flexibility to work in tight and awkward spaces. The KR series can handle payloads up to 18 kg and reach up to 1800 mm, allowing customers to automate a variety of physically demanding and/or repetitive tasks. The seventh axis enables continuous dispensing, welding, and material removal applications, regardless of access angle, without the need to reorient the arm. “The KR 7-axis cobots use workspaces efficiently and give programmers more options for completing tasks than traditional 6-axis devices,” says Rob MacDonald, director of sales and marketing at Gibson Engineering. “The combination of performance, ease of use, and safety make the Kassow cobots a great addition to our product portfolio.” Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) without robotics specialists can carry out complex automation and programming cost-effectively and independently with Kassow Robots solutions. The cobots are perfect for limited-space retrofits and applications such as machine tending, pick-and-place tasks, quality inspection, and palletizing.
Seegrid receives Frost & Sullivan Technology Innovation Leader award
Autonomous Mobile Robot provider earns recognition for technology leverage, commercialization success, and growth potential Seegrid Corporation, a provider of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for material handling, has announced that it has received Frost & Sullivan’s prestigious Technology Innovation Leader Award for 2022. The global research and consulting firm recognized Seegrid for leading the North American AMR market for material handling with complete, connected automation solutions that drive operational resiliency for global leaders in logistics, e-commerce, and manufacturing. The award is based on Frost & Sullivan’s independent and primary research market analysis and recognizes Seegrid for its commitment to innovation and creativity, commercialization success, and growth potential. “With experienced leadership and continuous R&D focus, Seegrid is poised to witness exponential growth for the sustainable future. The company is well-positioned to reap the benefits of the radically evolving AMRs for material handling space,” said Krithika Shekar, Frost & Sullivan Industry Analyst. Frost & Sullivan’s research highlights that automation solves labor shortages and safely increases productivity while mitigating uncertainties. The firm recognized Seegrid’s innovative autonomy technology, Seegrid IQ, as its market differentiator. Fusing data from cameras, LiDAR, and machine learning models with the company’s proprietary 3D computer vision system, Seegrid IQ captures and processes massive amounts of data in real-time to deliver agility, reliability, and human-like understanding capabilities required to operate in dynamic industrial environments. Seegrid’s Chief Executive Officer Jim Rock said, “This recognition underscores our commitment to providing our customers with intelligent automation solutions that achieve their material handling goals, future-proof their operations, and drive the entire industry toward a safer, more efficient supply chain.” “Frost & Sullivan is impressed with how Seegrid integrated sophisticated hardware, enterprise software, warehouse equipment, and actionable analytics with its AMRs to automate complicated material handling techniques in dynamic environments,” said Shekar. Seegrid was also recently named the #4 most innovative robotics company in the world by Fast Company and earned recognition as the #1 AMR provider in the US and #1 market leader in tow tractor AMRs worldwide by Interact Analysis, an international market research authority for the supply chain automation industry. Last week at MODEX, the company showcased the interoperability of its mobile robots, enterprise software, and data analytics solutions, and debuted its newest AMR, Palion Lift, now available for pre-order and shipping to customers. Download a complimentary copy of Frost & Sullivan’s analysis of Seegrid.
EP 271: Open Sky Group at MODEX 2022
In this episode, I was joined by Dave Haley of Open Sky Group at MODEX 2022. Open Sky Group is the number one reseller of Blue Yonder and has expanded beyond WMS to help companies integrate multiple different systems into their operation. We discuss their advisory services and why it is important to fully assess your operation before determining your next step. Key Takeaways Open Sky Group originally started with a focus on implementing WMS software into operations but has since expanded into multiple different system types and focuses on Blue Yonder. They have also expanded into advisory services which serve the purpose of ensuring the customer is getting the right system for their needs. Dave shares an example where a company was convinced they needed a tier-one TMS system but when they really looked at it they did not need all that functionality. Due to this, the company was able to save themselves a lot of spending so being able to determine the right fit with an expert is key. When going through the advisory services process, Open Sky Group really takes the approach to determine what the customer’s real need is and not go into it trying to sell them something. They will take a full assessment of what you are currently doing and look for the gaps. If they can fit into the gaps then they will give you their recommendation but as Dave says if they do not fit into the gap then they will advise you on some other companies that can help you do that. This is a very important partnership to form as you are looking at improving your operation. You need to get a fair assessment and need to be able to have someone that can help you understand what you truly need. Dave discusses how it is important to fully assess your operation before going after the shiny objects that we were seeing at MODEX. While these technologies can really help you to improve operations, it is important to optimize your processes as much as possible before moving in that direction. If you do that, you will not see the ROI or efficiency gains that you may be expecting. He also emphasizes that dealing with the labor shortage is more than trying to get employees and that retention should also have as much concentration as recruiting and trying to get new technology to supplement labor. Listen or watch the episode below and leave your thoughts in the comments. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 271: Open Sky Group at MODEX 2022
StayLinked supports Zebra Technologies ground-breaking WS50 – the ultra-compact wearable mobile computer
StayLinked, a market provider in terminal emulation (TE) solutions for the supply chain industry, has announced its support for Zebra Technologies’ newly released WS50, the world’s smallest enterprise-class wearable Android mobile computer. The ultra-compact, fully functional mobile computing device with a built-in barcode scanner can be worn on the wrist, across two fingers, or on the back of the hand as a ring scanner. “Our support includes integration of the WS50 with Evolve, StayLinked’s robust and highly-secure integration platform supported by our SmartTE software, enabling supply chain organizations to future-proof their legacy systems and take advantage of new and emerging Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies,” explained Justin Griffith, chief technology officer, StayLinked. Evolve gives WS50 wearers the ability to activate and communicate with new and emerging IIoT devices such as Fetch Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), and Zebra’s HD4000 Enterprise Head-Mounted Displays. “As a Zebra partner and a member of the Zebra Early Adopter Program we can see the potential wide-ranging applications and capabilities that StayLinked’s integration with the uniquely versatile WS50 can deliver,” continued Griffith. StayLinked Evolve enables the rapid and seamless integration of hardware platforms such as the WS50 and Fetch AMR into a customer’s existing environment. The integration requires no coding, no scripting, and no changes to the customer’s applications. This integration presents significant innovative opportunities for StayLinked’s channel partners and their customers as the WS50 and other IIoT devices are immediately accessible by two-thirds of the rugged data collection market using legacy TE software. “StayLinked Evolve’s integration with Zebra’s WS50 gives our channel partners and their customers an easily deployable IIoT peripheral as a stand-alone wearable Android device and an IIoT hub, all in one versatile platform,” said Griffith. The WS50 has been designed for scan-intensive workflows with a limited user interface (UI). Converged Scan models are ideal for loading trucks, sorting boxes, and item put-away, where workers scan frequently, needing only limited on-screen instructions. With the WS50 Wrist Core model, supervisors can communicate with workers via PTT or push messages and tasks. Users interact with a simple menu-driven UI optimized for the two-inch display. The WS50 supports 14˚ F to 122˚ F operation (not freezer) and is designed for rugged industrial use cases. The WS50 opens the door for StayLinked partners and their customers to deploy many new cutting-edge enhancements to existing workflows by supporting the full suite of its Evolve partners’ solutions. “With the introduction of the WS50, Zebra is once again demonstrating why it is a leader in the rugged wearable technology sector – the WS50 really is in a class of its own, and StayLinked is excited to be supporting this cutting-edge device,” concluded Griffith.
Vecna Robotics partners with Big Joe to introduce a new Co-Bot Pallet Jack
Entry-level Vecna CPJ Brings Intelligent, Flexible Material Handling Robotics Solutions to Labor-intensive “In-between” Workflows That Have Been Long Ignored by Automation Vecna Robotics, a provider of flexible material handling automation solutions, announced at MODEX 2022 with Big Joe, a provider of pedestrian material handling equipment, its latest autonomous offering for labor-intensive material-handling workflows called the Vecna CPJ. This revolutionary co-bot pallet jack is uniquely designed to bring human-assisted robotics to warehouses and manufacturing facilities with labor-intensive workflows that have been long ignored by robotics automation, including shorter distances, lower throughput, and tighter spaces. Internal simulations and field tests reveal up to 45% improvement in throughput versus human work only. There are over 5 billion pallets in circulation and nearly 5 million manual pallet jacks at work moving them every day. With 70% of the total cost of moving those pallets being labor – and severe labor shortages crippling supply chains – Big Joe and Vecna Robotics identified a clear need for an autonomous material handling solution to handle “in-between” loads. The new offering combines Vecna Robotics’ proven expertise in autonomous mobile robots and orchestration with Big Joe’s trusted material handling hardware. Together, the two companies provide an easy-to-use, on-demand labor automation service that frees up human workers to focus on higher-value tasks. “The last 18 months had driven huge demand for AMRs like autonomous forklifts, but current offerings are typically only accessible to very large facilities,” said Craig Malloy, CEO at Vecna Robotics. “Our CPJ is a game-changer as it allows facilities of varied sizes to address their immediate labor shortages with intelligent material handling robots. The new solution works seamlessly alongside human workers and automates a broader range of payloads, workflows, and environments that the market is not currently addressing.” To maximize the accessibility of the product and help with immediate labor shortages, Vecna CPJ will be available through a Robot-as-a-Service (RaaS) pricing model that is designed to support easy onboarding of robotics solutions and deliver rapid savings without the need for large CapEx budgets. “Bringing solutions to market that empower workers to better manage in-between material handling tasks is a core to who we are,” said Bill Pedriana, CMO of Big Joe. “We are thrilled to be working with an industry leader like Vecna Robotics to bring our first robotics offering to the masses together. Their intelligent and easy to deploy system will help our joint customers make moving workloads far more efficient on day one.” Vecna Robotics’ customers, including GEODIS and Shape Corp., trust the company’s material handling automation solutions to simplify workflows and increase throughput. “Vecna Robotics’ new co-bot platform is an innovative, accessible solution for improving productivity in labor-intensive, underserved workflows across the warehouse. We look forward to future tests of the platform and continued innovation from Vecna Robotics on automating material handling workflows,” said Andy Johnston, Senior Director of Innovation at GEODIS in the Americas. “Vecna Robotics’ CPJ is a versatile platform that complements our future deployments, while the flexibility and simplicity of operation allow us to tackle new use cases. We look forward to expanding our work with Vecna and incorporating this into our other workflows to automate our material handling processes,” added Mahesh Nikam, Shape Excellence Systems Manager, Shape Corp. Vecna Robotics also collaborated with industry leader Quanergy Systems (NYSE: QNGY) on the lidar technology used by the CPJ to enable mass-market adoption and democratize access to automation. “The time to democratize automation in material handling is now. This technology has long been exclusive to early adopters or those in select industries with large budgets for innovation,” said Enzo Signore, CMO at Quanergy. “In collaboration with Vecna Robotics, we have a unique opportunity to deliver a true co-bot solution to help companies overcome dire labor shortage issues with technology that can be immediately deployed, virtually out-of-the-box.” Available for purchase by the end of 2022, Vecna CPJ will offer the following: Flexible configurations for moving a variety of pallets, carts, racks, bins, and other payloads up to 3,300 lbs. / 1,500 kg Full AMR functionality, including intelligent route planning, obstacle circumvention, and transport at an accessible entry point Seamless switching between autonomous and manual control, easy onboarding, user-friendly UI/UX for intuitive programming and collaborative workflows Enterprise-class automation to historically underserved workflows, including pallet and tote consolidation, pick-to-packout, QA/QC/rework, and dunnage retrieval Productivity boosts with collaborative human-robot workflows at large, multi-shift enterprise sites with tight spaces Intelligent human-robot orchestration, autonomy, interoperability, remote monitoring, and analytics powered by Vecna’s Pivotal™ software
RightHand Robotics™ adds Vanderlande to its growing Partner Integrator Network
RightHand Robotics, a provider of data-driven, autonomous robotic picking solutions for order fulfillment, has announced that Vanderlande, a global market provider for future-proof logistic process automation in the warehousing, airports, and parcel sectors, has partnered to deploy piece-picking robots to meet the demands of general merchandise warehouses and distribution centers on a global scale. In doing so, Vanderlande has added the RightHand Robotics award-winning RightPick™ item handling system to its Smart Item Robotics (SIR) portfolio of technologies, following the company’s strategy to accelerate the use of robotics in warehousing. “The market wants integrated robotics that works, so we’ve tested the world’s leading robot solutions,” says Terry Verkuijlen, Vanderlande’s Vice President of Warehouse Solutions. “Our findings showed that RightHand Robotics’ use of gripper technology, vision systems, and software algorithms is the best fit for automated general merchandise warehouses.” After testing several of the world’s leading robot-picking solutions, Vanderlande ultimately selected the RightHand Robotics solutions for their best-in-class features and capabilities, and because they are successfully functioning in warehouses today. As labor shortages continue to increase, the partnership will benefit Vanderlande’s customers as advanced automated picking becomes ubiquitous in an ever-demanding order fulfillment climate. “We are pleased to be included with the Smart Item Robotics (SIR) portfolio of technologies,” said Leif Jentoft, CSO and Co-Founder at RightHand Robotics. “Warehouses are under increasing pressure to accelerate order fulfillment as eCommerce orders continue to rise. We look forward to helping Vanderlande meet the needs of customers worldwide and are honored to meet their standards for advanced automated picking.” The collaboration is managed as part of the RightHand Robotics Partner Integrator program, the company’s flagship strategic partnership initiative that makes it easier for end customers to adopt the RightPick platform while still working with their preferred automation suppliers. The program was launched to align the business goals of system integrators, OEM technology providers, certified robot integrator partners, and other related sales alliance members. The program offers strategic, commercial, and technical engagement such that companies can develop and build comprehensive solutions that are Powered by RightHand RoboticsTM RightPick piece-picking technology.