AHS Partners with Caja Robotics to bring Robotic Fulfillment to a major distribution facility
Advanced Handling Systems (AHS, LLC) has announced that they will be partnering with Caja Robotics to optimize a Midwest distribution facility for a major retailer. AHS, LLC, a full-service systems integrator located in Erlanger, KY, is a premier US partner of Caja Robotics and will be completing the installation and deployment of approximately 100 robots in the new facility. Caja Robotics is a visionary software and robotics company that is committed to advancing warehouse operations through its proprietary, smart, and flexible goods-to-person robotic fulfillment solution. Utilizing a dual-robot system, the Caja solution will support roughly 108,000 square feet of the facility space. The solution will enable the distribution center to operate at optimal performance, with the ability to support an outbound unit volume greater than 26 thousand units per day. “When AHS was looking to expand our technology offerings, we partnered with organizations that we felt not only provided something innovative but technology that could be deployed to solve real challenges in the distribution center,” said Drew Eubank, Director of Customer Solutions at AHS. “I can’t explain – in words – how excited I am to see this strategy pay off with this large Caja installation. It will not only benefit the customer but could potentially provide a solution for an entire industry segment.” Caja Robotics was founded in response to the daily challenges experienced in the world of order fulfillment. This was the driving force to develop a smart warehouse robotics solution that is adaptive enough to work with existing infrastructure and flexible enough to handle peaks in sales. Flexibility is a strong suit, as Caja can respond to peak demands by stretching the robots to increase their working hours and/or add more robots to the fleet of robots during peak time. Caja’s solution increases order efficiency, optimizes storage capacity, and improves the workplace environment to maximize business growth; the solution allows fast deployment and is also scalable. The system includes advanced cloud-based software which controls the entire operation, two types of robots that work in combination, two types of picking stations, and fleet management with a unique 4D algorithm for warehouse and order optimization. “We are excited to partner with AHS on this major deployment, where we excel by virtue of the combined capabilities of both our companies,” said Ilan Cohen, CEO of Caja Robotics. “We’ve teamed up our dedicated robotic solution and market expertise to deliver competitive advantages to fulfillment operations in retail e-commerce.” With AHS’s extensive experience in warehouse automation paired with Caja’s intelligent and flexible goods-to-person technology, both teams are confident and excited to get started on the first of many projects together.
Signode will highlight the latest Automation Solutions at ProMatDX
Signode, a global manufacturer of a broad spectrum of end of line packaging equipment, tools, and consumables, will showcase its complete range of automation solutions at ProMatDX 2021 April 12-16. Signode has scheduled daily product and technology demos and its team of automation professionals will be available online to share insights, answer questions, and interact with the show’s virtual attendees, allowing easy access to specifiers of all industries looking to maximize productivity and enhance efficiency. “Signode’s complete end-of-line warehouse automation offerings address and solve our customers’ challenges and requirements, including increased throughput, improved response time, lower operating and labor costs, and optimized safety,” said Mike Stein, Vice President of Marketing and Product Management, Automation and Packaging Technologies Platform, Signode. Among the wide spectrum of automation capabilities included in the virtual demonstrations at ProMatDX 2021, Signode will present StorFast®, its automated storage and retrieval (ASRS) system (Thursday, April 15, 10:45-11 a.m. CDT). The StorFast ASRS system provides high-density, lights-out, 24/7-access to all products in the warehouse. The shuttle/cart system allows multiple orders to be processed simultaneously and can flex between high-volume input and peak shipping schedules to optimize the utilization and efficiency of the system at all times. The StorFast ASRS system is an increasingly specified solution for both existing and new facilities in the rapidly growing warehouse and distribution space. Its space-saving shuttle/cart system is particularly sought after for urban-based facilities with limited horizontal footprints. “We are seeing intense interest among current and prospective customers as they are rethinking their entire approach,” said Stein. “We know that automation demands increase as companies rebound and reassess their operations following economic downturns and that is certainly the case right now.” Complete Product and Technology Demonstration Schedule: End-of-Line Automation – Solutions to Improve Efficiency Monday, April 12 10-10:15 a.m. (CDT) Attendees will learn how end-of-line and warehouse automation solutions can manage costs and secure products for damage-free shipments. Signode will educate attendees on everything from touch-free automated case packing lines to robotic and gantry palletizers through pallet wrapping and high-density warehouse storage. With more than 100 years of experience, Signode is a trusted partner to high-profile customers looking for efficiency in package handling for transit, storage, and distribution. Octopus® Stretch Wrappers, Unlimited Wrapping Patterns for Load Stabilization Tuesday, April 13 1-1:15 p.m. (CDT) Attendees will learn how to potentially reduce film usage and improve the quality of the wrapping to achieve the required load containment at the lowest possible overall cost. Octopus stretch wrappers offer unlimited numbers of wrapping patterns, stabilizing loads for transport so goods make it through the supply chain undamaged. Octopus machines allow for numerous innovative options (corner post device, integrated top sheet dispenser, load stabilizer, and automatic film reel change) to help solve specific stretch packaging challenges. Versatile, 5-sided Product Protection for Effective Load Containment Wednesday, April 14 1-1:15 p.m. (CDT) Whether looking for increased load stability, reduced packaging material, minimal waste, or an improved packaging solution, Signode stretch hooders offer the perfect mix between function and cost. The Multi FleX1 hooder protects products from the elements and stabilizes them for transport. The machine has a variety of film patterns, including fully closed hoods, film sleeves, short hoods, and film reinforcement capabilities. Stretch hood is ideal for cubed loads, irregular loads with protrusions, varying product shapes, and more importantly, for single-layer loads. Maximizing Savings with Signode’s StorFast Warehouse Automation Solutions Thursday, April 15 10:45-11 a.m. (CDT) Attendees will learn how StorFast’s fully integrated warehouse automation solutions can maximize operational savings for supply chain management. StorFast offers a full range of high-density shuttle and cart-based storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) and is part of Signode’s extensive automation portfolio. In addition to StorFast, the full portfolio includes robot-based depalletizing, palletizing, material handling solutions, and a complete range of automated packaging equipment. StorFast offers full warehouse management software and a complete track and trace system that provides superior cost and performance advantages over basic warehouse automation systems. “We’ve worked hard to deliver ‘time well-spent in our digital show offerings and our automation team is looking forward to connecting with current and prospective customers at ProMatDX 2021,” said Stein. Registration is free for ProMatDX 2021. To register or for more information: www.promatshow.com.
EP 165: Locus the Unicorn
In this episode, I was joined by the CEO of Locus Robotics, Rick Faulk. Recently Locus Robotics was valued at $1 Billion making them a “unicorn” in the industry. You may remember that just a few weeks ago I spoke with Karen Leavitt of Locus discussing how the Locus Bot helps with spikes in returns and at the end, she teased some big news coming up which I did not realize would be the new valuation. As you can imagine, we discuss the news, Rick’s journey through Locus, the company’s evolution, and also the concept of a warehouse in your pocket. Key Takeaways Locus has been on the show multiple times and we have talked about the journey even with one of the founders, Bruce Welty, but on this episode, we get to hear it from Rick who has helped the company grow to this point of a billion-dollar valuation as its leader. He discusses how there is a digital transformation that has been taking place and also one that is driving towards automation becoming mandatory. Even in his safety tip, he discusses the necessity of automating. As he discusses this, he points out a large amount of help wanted signs he recently saw on a trip and believes that automating is the only way to deal with the large labor shortage. One of the topics that have been coming up for me lately is the accessibility of automation and robotics for smaller companies. Rick explains how the Locus model addresses this by its scalability and business model. He discusses how the Locus Bot is able to start very small for an organization and then quickly ramp up as needed. He also goes deeper into the RaaS (robots as a service) model that they offer and explains how financially it helps smaller businesses be able to invest in automation without having a large capital expenditure. Prior to interviewing Rick, I listened to another podcast he was on where he mentioned the warehouse in your pocket. I was very intrigued by this as being able to access analytics and data for an operation on the go or when on the floor without a computer has always been something I have wanted in my own career. With Locus, the dashboards and data insights are all available to view right on your smartphone which makes it incredibly convenient and gives you even more effective ways to manage your operation. One key thing is that Locus has focused on making the information digestible through dashboards as opposed to the typical green screen of other WMS’s. Listen to the episode below and let us know your thoughts in the comments. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 165: Locus the Unicorn
VARTA AG and SoftBank Robotics Europe expand cooperation
In the future, VARTA will not only be a battery supplier for Pepper – the world’s first social humanoid robot – but will also work together with SoftBank Robotics Europe on a new battery format. The battery platform is targeted at various emerging applications in the field of robotics. VARTA and SoftBank Robotics Europe have been working together since 2012. The successful cooperation in the areas of product and project development as well as in technical design is now being continued and intensified in a new major project: Together, the two technology companies are developing a battery platform that will serve as a battery module suitable for emerging robotic applications at SoftBank Robotics Europe. The start of the VARTA and Softbank Robotics collaboration was the development of the battery for the humanoid robot Pepper, which uses facial recognition and is able to engage with people through conversation and its touch screen. Pepper is used as an assistant in various industries and fields. The platform’s batteries are to be used in the latest version of Pepper and in other emerging applications such as next-gen robotic platforms for new markets. Gordon Clements, General Manager, VARTA Solutions: “The whole field of robotics will have a significant impact on our lives. VARTA was able to master the complex battery requirements for a humanoid robot like Pepper, translate them into a simple solution, and then deliver in volume manufacturing. Now we want to develop the technology further and make it applicable to the entire portfolio of Softbank Robotics. With the planned battery platform, we are creating the basis for many different autonomous and smart robotic applications that will make our lives easier and more comfortable. Reducing SoftBank Robotics time to market and investment when realizing new robotic applications” “Thanks to its expertise and its successes built in different market applications, VARTA together with SoftBank Robotics Europe teams are working on the definition of our battery for our next generation robotics platform with the constant goals of accelerating the time-to-market, proposed the good cost structure by never compromising performance and feature set. This state-of-the-art architecture allows SoftBank Robotics Europe to use the same battery as a global asset for different projects and products. VARTA’s team connects us to a complete ecosystem made of WW manufacturing capabilities and partners“, says Xavier Lacherade, COO of SoftBank Robotics Europe. The platform’s batteries will be produced at VARTA’s highly automated production facility at the VARTA site in Brasov, Romania. With more than ten years of experience on high-tech production lines, around two million individual battery formats and solutions are manufactured annually for major customers and OEMs.
Motion hires new Group VP-Automation
Motion Industries, Inc., a distributor of maintenance, repair, and operation replacement parts, and a premier provider of industrial technology solutions, just announced that Aurelio Banda will join the Company as Motion’s new Group Vice President of Automation, effective April 1st. “Aurelio’s extensive industry background in automation distribution and manufacturing, combined with his education and training, make him a perfect fit to lead our automation strategy and accelerate growth,” said Randy Breaux, Motion President. “We look forward to watching our automation business flourish under his leadership.” Mr. Banda most recently served as President and Chief Executive Officer of PHD Inc., a global manufacturer of electric, pneumatic and hydraulic industrial automation actuators of various types in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Prior to leading PHD Inc., he served as President and CEO – North America for Beckhoff Automation, a global manufacturer of industrial PCs, software, hardware, and a variety of other products, in Savage, Minnesota. Mr. Banda was also the owner and President and CEO of Controls Plus, Inc., an automation distributor in Noblesville, Indiana. Additionally, he served as VP Sales and Regional Sales Manager for Motion Automation, Inc., and a Regional Sales Manager for Bosch Rexroth’s Electronic Controls & Drives. A graduate of DeVry University with a degree in Applied Science in Electronics, Mr. Banda furthered his education with an MBA in Finance & Operations from Notre Dame and completed Harvard Business School’s General Management Program.
EP 164: Caja Robotics
In this episode, I was joined by two guests, Dr. Ilan Cohen and Hannah Yanovsky of Caja Robotics. Ilan is the Chairman and CEO at Caja while Hannah is the CRO & General Manager. Caja Robotics is an Israel-based robotics company providing a goods-to-person solution. We discuss Caja’s solutions, what is unique about the solution, and their partnership with Sela Logistics Center. Key Takeaways Caja Robotics provides a good to-person robotic solution that works with two robotic solutions. One is a lift type robot that assists in storage optimization and replenishment while the second is a cart robot that is utilized for picking and transporting boxes throughout the fulfillment center. Powering this solution is their own software that allows for the robots to navigate in your existing infrastructure and requires no changes to your operation making it much easier to implement. One interesting part of the discussion was the contrast of warehousing real estate in Israel versus other countries. Hannah shares some great insights into how the smaller size of Israel has pushed the price of real estate very high. Due to this warehouses look to maximize on smaller spaces to be able to provide fast service to customers. They also tend to utilize existing spaces which can add some complexity to an operation as you have to adapt to space. This is somewhat of a contrast to North America where we see lots of open lands that are being built up with large distribution centers. Dr. Cohen discusses the uniqueness of their software which really helps their solution effectively. The solution provides inventory management, travel management, and communication for the robots. Additionally, they have easy implementation, flexibility, and scalability. When it comes to keeping up with spikes in demand and the constant change of fulfillment, flexibility, and scalability is key. Much like the spikes that we saw with the pandemic, the ability to quickly scale up to meet new demand is key in being successful. Listen to the episode below and leave your thoughts in the comments. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 164: Caja Robotics
Cimcorp Partners with GEODIS to introduce Automated Layer Picking as Innovative Warehouse Solution
In the Clayton, Indiana facility, Cimcorp’s Layer Pick system increases throughput and ensures order accuracy Cimcorp, a manufacturer and integrator of turnkey robotic order fulfillment and tire handling solutions, announces the successful implementation of a robotic Layer Pick solution to third-party logistics (3PL) provider GEODIS at its warehouse located in Clayton, Indiana. Cimcorp has partnered with systems integrator Advanced Handling Systems (AHS) for the project, in which Cimcorp’s technology is integrated into an automated distribution solution. As a key solution feature, the Layer Pick system will enable faster order fulfillment and ensure complete picking accuracy. A global supply chain operator, GEODIS provides logistics, transport, and supply chain management services to companies around the world. At the Clayton facility, GEODIS specifically handles warehousing and distribution operations for one of the largest suppliers of over-the-counter health products in North America. Rob Thyen, SVP Engineering & Facilities, GEODIS, said, “Businesses today are looking for a 3PL partner that can keep up with rising consumer demands and solve complex logistical challenges—and one of the best ways to do so is through automation. By offering this automated solution, we were able to win the business of a major consumer goods provider, and we feel confident that the solution will deliver the speed and efficiency necessary to best serve our client’s needs.” Cimcorp’s Layer Pick solution will drastically increase throughput for GEODIS, picking a notable 3,000 layers of product a day in just two shifts—with 100-percent accuracy, full product traceability, and no need for manual picking. Derek Rickard, Sales Manager at Cimcorp, said, “Our Layer Pick solution is ideal when you need to rapidly and accurately pick orders in layered quantities from a large volume of inventory. The system is also flexible and compact, making it much easier for 3PL providers (like GEODIS) to integrate automation into their existing facilities and operations. We’re excited to work together with Advanced Handling Systems and GEODIS, and look forward to a long partnership with both supply chain leaders.”
EP 162: The Vecna Silverback
On this episode, I was joined by the Senior Vice President of Sales at Vecna Robotics, Jeff Huerta. Vecna has been on the show a few times and I even got the chance to do a site visit with them in Massachusetts. Definitely enjoy the solutions that they are putting out and also the work they do to keep the robotics world collaborative so I was happy to hear that they recently launched a new product called the Silverback. Jeff and I discuss the Silverback, why this was next in line for them, and how they have handled the pandemic. Key Takeaways From previous episodes, you may be familiar with the Vecna product line but in this episode, we discuss their new offering which is the Silverback. This is a counter-balanced forklift that now adds lifting capability and double stacking ability to Vecna’s fleet. As Jeff describes, this solution really came from a need for customers to go a step further by the request to be able to lift pallets up higher and also be able to double stack pallets for creating better space utilization. As for the name, it comes from the Silver Back gorilla having the strongest strength to weight ratio. Jeff discusses how the pandemic has been and one of the bigger triggers of the increase in demand for robots has been the labor shortage. This is something that I have seen firsthand as well. With the pandemic, not only have individuals been weary to work due to potential exposure, but it has also been difficult to get warehouse labor due to the increase in e-commerce demand that some of the big players in the space are experiencing which causes them to suck up most of the labor in the area. To combat this, many companies have been turning to robots to fill in on some more repetitious jobs like moving pallets from place to place which Vecna’s solutions can help replace. The other interesting thing about our discussion is the tidbit that Jeff drops about how the Silver Back is giving Vecna a taste of getting elevated. I prod Jeff a bit about whether or not this is a hint into the next things to come from Vecna. Unfortunately, he cannot confirm but it certainly does seem that Vecna may be reaching new heights in the future which would be the likely evolution. Will we see an automated reach truck from Vecna? I guess we will find out! Listen to the episode below and let us know what you think of the Silver Back. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 162: The Vecna Silverback
EP 158: From No-Bot to Robot with Bricz
In this episode, I was joined by the Warehouse Robotics Practice Leader at Bricz, Parth Pethani. Bricz is a global supply chain solutions provider that helps companies build out a robust supply chain. Parth and I discuss Bricz, robot implementation, and how to start to introduce robotics into your operation. Key Takeaways As you might have heard in several of our podcast episodes throughout the pandemic, many companies are moving towards robotics as an answer to deal with new safety protocols and keep up with spikes in eCommerce demand. Bricz actually began to implement robotics into their solution offerings as they saw an increase in demand from their customer to provide solutions to them. Parth discusses how robotics became a flourishing part of their business and how he got such an awesome title. The main focus of our discussion is looking at robotics implementations but for many, robots are not something they have already had experience with. We are still in a position where robots in a warehouse or distribution center are a very new idea with adoption now increasing steadily and accessibility increasing. Parth discusses that the initial step of going from no-bot to robot is to really take a look at your operation and see where the operation can really benefit from being automated. This is a very important starting point because you may think that a robot is what you need for a certain task but in reality, there may be a better opportunity to start with first. From that first implementation is where you can start to grow into other processes and tasks. During the implementation process, Parth stresses that ensuring the system integration will work and communicate properly is one of the biggest aspects of the implementation. We discuss how communication between systems is just as important as communication between people when processes need to flow. If the robot is not able to get the proper information and task-driven by the system in place then it will not be able to do what it needs to do and help you improve your efficiency. This is a key step in ensuring that the overall implementation will be successful with minimal hiccups. Listen to the episode below and leave a comment if you are ready to go from no-bot to robot. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 158: From No-Bot to Robot with Bricz
Automate Forward Keynote Speakers, Full agenda announced
Virtual Trade Show and Conference to feature more than 80 speakers, 250+ exhibitors More than 80 global experts will speak at Automate Forward, the world’s premier virtual automation trade show and conference set for March 22-26, 2021. The event also features more than 250 leading companies in an expanded exhibit area, enhanced networking opportunities, and a look at innovative automation startups. Speakers include senior executives from companies such as 3M, General Motors, Intel, Microsoft, UPS, IBM, GE, FedEx, Siemens, and Proctor & Gamble. The full agenda is available online. “With the adoption of automation accelerating, and the impossibility of holding large in-person shows in the US at the moment, Automate Forward will play a critical role in educating companies about how robotics, AI, machine vision, motion control, and related automation technologies can immediately help improve product quality, productivity, competitiveness, and worker safety,” said Jeff Burnstein, President of the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), the event’s host. Automate Forward will include a robust virtual exhibit hall and networking center where attendees can connect directly with companies and experts to solve their automation solutions and get immediate answers. The trade show will be open daily from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET for attendees to learn about products and systems that can help with unique challenges. A3 will share a sneak peek of the association’s new brand identity at 9:30 am ET on Monday, March 22 exclusively for Automate Forward attendees. Join live to learn about how its four current brands – RIA, AIA, MCMA, and A3 Mexico – are combing to create the new A3 representing over 1100 global companies and organizations active in automation. Automate Forward Keynote Sessions Monday, March 22 10 AM ET PANEL: The New Industries Driving The Growth of Automation and Robotics Robert Little, CEO, ATI Industrial Automation Mark Lewandowski, Director – Robotics Innovation, Procter & Gamble John Dulchinos, Vice President, Jabil Ted Dengel, Managing Director, Operations Technology and Innovation, FedEx Ground John Bubnikovich, Chief Regional Officer – North America, KUKA Robotics 11 AM ET: The Competitive Advantage is Here and It’s All About Digital Raj Batra, President, Digital Industries, Siemens 1:30 PM ET: Moving Automation Forward: What is required? Greg Brown, Vice President of Strategy and R&D, UPS Tuesday, March 23 10 AM ET PANEL: The 2021 State of the Automation Industry Executive Roundtable Mike Cicco, President & CEO, FANUC AMERICA Patrick McDermott, President North America, B&R Automation Dr. Thomas Evans, CTO Robotics, Honeywell Intelligrated Christine Boles, Vice President, Internet of Things Group – General Manager, Industrial Solutions Division, Intel Sebastien Schmitt, North American Robotics Division Manager, Stäubli 11 AM ET: Human Aware Robot Software and Tools for Delivering it Rodney Brooks, Co-Founder and CTO, Robust.AI 1:30 PM ET: 3M’s Automation Journey: Driving Growth & Productivity Debarati Sen, Vice President & General Manager Abrasive Systems Division Safety & Industrial Business Group, 3M Wednesday, March 24 10 AM ET PANEL: The Rise of Smart Automation Rashmi Misra, GM AI Platforms, Business Development, Microsoft Jorge Ramirez, Global Director Automation and Chief Mfg. Cybersecurity Officer, General Motors Rishi Vaish, CTO and VP, IBM AI Applications, IBM John Lizzi, Executive Leader – Robotics, GE Tom Panzarella, Senior Director of Perception, Seegrid 11 AM ET: Using Deep Learning and Simulation to Teach Robots Manipulation in Complex Environments Dieter Fox, Senior Director of Robotics Research, NVIDIA 1:30 PM ET: Automation and the Future of Manufacturing Indranil Sircar, CTO, Manufacturing Industry, Microsoft Thursday, March 25 10 AM ET PANEL: How Collaborative Automation is Driving Productivity Co-sponsored by the International Federation of Robotics Milton Guerry, President, Schunk USA Joe Gemma, Global Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Calvary Robotics Greg Smith, President of the Industrial Automation Group at Teredyne David Robers, Robotics Sales Manager – Americas, Denso Robotics 11 AM ET: Value Chain Integration and Optimization Through Robotics in Consumer segments and Retail Marc Segura, Executive Global Business Line Leader – Consumer Segment Service Robotics, ABB Robotics and Machine Automation Friday, March 26 10 AM ET PANEL: Autonomous Mobile Robots: How to Get Started Karen Leavitt, Chief Marketing Officer, Locus Robotics Søren E. Nielsen, President, Mobile Industrial Robots Matt Rendall, CEO and Co-Founder, OTTO Motors Rob Sullivan, President, AutoGuide Mobile Robots Melonee Wise, CEO and Founder, Fetch Robotics 11 AM ET: Using an End-to-End Workflow to Build, Iterate, and Operationalize Deep Learning-Powered Visual Inspection Projects Andrew Ng, CEO & Founder, Landing AI
EP 156: Locus Returns
In this episode, I was joined by a friend of the show Karen Leavitt who is the Chief Marketing Officer at Locus Robotics. I have spoken to Locus a number of times on the show, through a webinar and have even done a site visit to their headquarters in Massachusetts prior to the pandemic. They recently released some incredible news about them now being worth $1 billion and hitting Unicorn status so, first off, congratulations to them, and really happy I have been able to see them grow as I have been following them through the podcast. This episode was recorded prior to the release of the news and you will hear Karen mention some news coming soon at the end but I had no idea it would be this so it’s a really fun episode for me. We also discuss the surge in returns due to the pandemic drive spike of e-commerce demand and how the Locus Bot is helping companies keep up. Key Takeaways Without a doubt, the pandemic has and continues to have a huge impact on the supply chain and consumer behavior overall. Karen and I discuss how the pandemic has been a difficult time but has also been an opportunity for some businesses that are aligned with e-commerce. Locus has certainly been one of those companies that have been able to help businesses keep up with the unexpected spike in consumer demand. We discuss how different industries have dropped but also come back as well. Along the way, Locus has also hit some total units picked milestones as well. Overall, the pandemic has driven innovation and a sense of urgency to adopt the technology. Due to the increase in consumer’s buying on eCommerce platforms, there has also been an increase in returns. Karen explains a phenomenon called “bracketing” which refers to consumers buying multiple sizes of the same item and returning the ones that do not fit. As Karen explains, this has been the replacement for fitting rooms during the pandemic. While this is convenient for the consumer, it is not always so convenient for those processing the returns. We discuss how the seasonality of the fashion industry, where this type of behavior typically happens, can require returns to be processed very quickly as products may be going out of season and losing their opportunity to sell. Locus is ready to help meet this demand in returns by turning their co-bots into putting away machines. While the Locus bot has a big focus on picking, it can also be utilized to help with the reverse of picking and do put away. As the product is processed through returns it can be placed onto the Locus bot and then the bot will find its way to the proper area and direct the operators to put away the product in the correct bin. Karen discusses how this works and also how it can help to switch between picking and put away during downtime so your labor is being utilized efficiently. Listen to the episode below and let us know how you’re handling the spike in returns. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 156: Locus Returns
EP 154: Keeping Up with the E-commerce Spike
In this episode, I was joined by Kraig Foreman who is the DHL President, eCommerce, DHL Supply Chain, North America., and Vince Martinelli who is the Head of Product and Marketing at Right Hand Robotics and previous guest of the show. The two joined me for the latest installment in our partnership with Material Handling Wholesaler for the March 2021 cover story entitled “As E-commerce Grows, Automation and Artificial Intelligence Help Companies Keep Pace” which is now available here. We discuss the spike in e-commerce due to the pandemic, consumer behavior changes, and technology is utilized to keep up with the spike. Key Takeaways It is no secret in our industry that e-commerce demand has skyrocketed throughout the pandemic well exceeding what a normal peak season would be like. This has caused our industry to have to adapt and accommodate in many different ways all while maintaining the safety of workers. In this episode, we get to hear from two different perspectives in the industry, one in Kraig from DHL who is fulfilling orders to the consumer, and the other from Vince who is providing companies like DHL solutions to keep up with the demand. Even though both are coming from different ends, they can both agree that this unexpected spike has caused companies to accelerate their technology just to keep up. The consensus is that the change in consumer behavior due to the pandemic is here to stay and now the challenge is to ensure that companies can keep up with the demand. Kraig mentions that companies have accelerated their plans by seven years in order to meet this demand. As I discuss with Kraig and Vince, technology is the key to being able to meet the e-commerce demand and the key is automation and AI. What I found most interesting is how Kraig details the deep dives into data analytics and how they will be greatly improved by utilizing AI and taking into account many microcosms that occur within an environment that can have an impact on demand in one or another. Another interesting part of the discussion was how Vince attributes the development of technology in the material handling industry to the gaming industry. He discusses how the advancement in video game technology has helped to push forward material handling technology as well by utilizing some of the same advanced components. One thing that I have noticed is that more technical aspects that are utilized in our regular lives are migrating to our work environments as well like smartphones and how handhelds are now becoming android based. It is an interesting shift but one that helps to reduce training time and get individuals more familiar with working with these different technologies in the material handling industry. Listen to the episode below and let us know your thoughts in the comments. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 154: Keeping Up with the E-commerce Spike
MHS and HAI ROBOTICS to provide goods-to-person robotic solutions in North America
Innovative case-handling robots address the demand for warehouse automation, complete with local support from MHS MHS, a single-source provider of material handling automation and software solutions, announces a partnership with HAI ROBOTICS to provide autonomous case-handling robotic systems for distribution and fulfillment facilities and courier, express, and parcel distribution centers. The relationship leverages innovative HAIPICK technology from HAI ROBOTICS and systems engineering, integration, and support from MHS to address labor and storage capacity challenges facing customers in North America. “With logistics facilities feeling pressure to accommodate growing SKU counts and order volumes, our robotic systems provide efficient, intelligent, flexible, and customizable warehouse automation solutions to make more efficient use of available space,” says Johnny Zhang, Vice President of International Sales, Hai Robotics. “In order to expand our business in North America, we need to find the right local integration partners. The experience, capability, and strength of MHS in our target markets make them an ideal fit.” The HAIPICK system uses autonomous case-handling robots to store and retrieve several cases at a time in tall, narrow storage aisles. This dense storage configuration can enable operations to reduce square-footage dedicated to storage, while actually increasing total storage capacity. Once cases are retrieved, the robots work in a goods-to-person framework, moving inventory into position to fuel order fulfillment and other logistics processes. “The HAIPICK solutions offer superior flexibility, faster implementation, and much lower cost compared to conventional AS/RS driven by shuttles and cranes,” says Michael Fleming, Manager of AGV and AMR solutions, MHS. “Working with HAI ROBOTICS allows MHS to serve our customers with advanced technology that best fits their needs in an evolving marketplace.”
Seegrid introduces Fleet Geek Data Analytics Software to complement its Autonomous Mobile Robots
New cloud-based addition, Fleet Geek, optimizes autonomous mobile robot performance, drives continuous improvement, and demonstrates impact of automation across the enterprise Seegrid Corporation, the leader in autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for material handling, has introduced Fleet Geek, a cloud-based analytics solution that provides a holistic, data-driven view of material flow, providing Seegrid’s customer base — prominent global brands in manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics — with comprehensive, actionable insights into Seegrid Palion AMR performance across their entire network of facilities. Fleet Geek tracks and illustrates material flow trends, empowering users with critical insights to optimize workflows, increase utilization, quantify the value of automation, and scale automation initiatives across the enterprise. The announcement follows the company’s recent unveiling of two new autonomous mobile robots: the company’s first autonomous lift truck, Palion Lift, and the newly enhanced Palion Pallet Truck. Fleet Geek joins Supervisor, the company’s fleet management software, as part of Seegrid’s Fleet Central enterprise software platform. “Seegrid is not only a robotics company but also a data analytics company,” said Jim Rock, Seegrid’s Chief Executive Officer. “Data-driven businesses are best positioned to keep up with fluctuating demands. Fleet Geek provides our customers with intuitive data visualizations and on-demand reporting to make well-informed decisions about their unique workflows to scale their success. We’re committed to continuing providing solutions that help our customers maximize the value of automated material flow.” Seegrid Palion AMRs work in unison among human coworkers, autonomously and safely moving billions of pounds of material each month in highly complex environments. Fleet Geek increases visibility by showing live project status views of each Seegrid Palion AMR across the company’s entire network of facilities. Dashboard views help companies ensure their entire Palion AMR fleet is running effectively across all facilities, shifts, and business applications — meeting key performance indicators while delivering information to quantify the success of the automation investment. “Industry leaders across the supply chain are not asking ‘if’ or ‘when’ to automate material flow — but rather, how to ensure their automation investments are delivering maximum impact, and how to replicate that success across the enterprise,” said Jeff Christensen, Seegrid’s Vice President of Product. Seegrid remains steadfast in its focus on delivering connected, end-to-end solutions that transform the world’s supply chain by combining industry-leading AMRs, enterprise software solutions, and best-in-class support services. The addition of Fleet Geek analytics software further accelerates automation initiatives in making facilities safer, more productive, and efficient.
Refining the training process with VR
Virtual reality is becoming a valuable teaching tool in training new supply chain employees. With the ability to simulate a warehouse environment, new hires can familiarize themselves with their workstations and warehouse technology before even starting the job. In this video, learn about some of the benefits of training using VR. Click here to view the video.
Cimcorp to showcase its Robotic Order Fulfillment Solutions during the first virtual ProMatDX Show
Attendees will have the opportunity to view on-demand demos of Cimcorp’s automated systems and chat live with a company expert to discover the best solution for their warehousing challenges Cimcorp, a manufacturer and integrator of turnkey robotic order fulfillment and tire handling solutions, announces its participation in the first-ever ProMat Digital Experience (ProMatDX) show, scheduled to be held virtually April 12-16, 2021. During the show, Cimcorp will be sharing its robotic order fulfillment systems designed to help warehouses and distribution centers overcome today’s toughest operational challenges—from tightening storage space and demanding lead times, to labor shortages and seasonal fluctuations in order volumes. ProMatDX attendees will be able to view on-demand demos of Cimcorp’s automated solutions, presented by the company’s Director of Sales, Derek Rickard. These will include: Crate picking: Combining buffer storage and order picking into one seamless operation, the MultiPick can rapidly handle a large volume of products stored in industry-standard crates, trays, and totes across a high-density storage area. The MultiPick’s ability to meet high throughputs with 100-percent order accuracy makes it an ideal solution for the distribution of fresh produce, dairy foods, and baked goods, where product freshness is dependent on the speed of fulfillment. Layer Picking: The Layer Pick uses gantry robots, each equipped with a vacuum picking head and clamp gripper, to pick products stored in layered quantities. Using varying force and vacuum strength based on the individual SKU, the system can handle virtually any consumer product on the market. A key differentiator is its ability to pick one-layer, multiple layers, and even entire pallet loads to build rainbow pallets. When integrated with an automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) or case picking automation, it creates the perfect end-to-end picking solution. The Layer Pick is ideal for facilities, including third-party logistics providers, picking over 1,000 layers per day from inventories of 50-500 SKUs. Case Picking: Cimcorp’s case picking solution integrates an AS/RS with automated case picking and mixed case palletizing—all managed by a Warehouse Control System. It can handle a wide variety of products with high speed and precision, including grocery distribution—an industry in which Cimcorp has a breadth of knowledge and experience. Modular and flexible, the case picking system can be scaled up as a business expands, making it a future-proof solution. Cimcorp’s automation experts will be available as well to chat live with attendees to discuss their unique warehousing needs. There will also be a variety of resources to view and download, including customer videos, case studies, and product brochures. Derek Rickard commented, “While the past year has been filled with unprecedented challenges, it’s also highlighted many long-existing ones within company warehouses and distribution centers—particularly those still reliant on manual order picking by employees. Issues can range from difficulties scaling operations due to spiking demand to managing SKU proliferation as a result of ongoing business growth. By recognizing these challenges, however, organizations can begin to understand how solutions like automation can help to overcome them and optimize processes within their facilities.” Rickard added, “We look forward to meeting with ProMatDX attendees and would like to commend MHI for enabling the show to go on this year in an innovative and safe format.”
As e-commerce grows, automation and artificial intelligence help companies keep pace
Recent months, and the last holiday season, in particular, brought an e-commerce boom like no other. As the pandemic accelerated trends already in motion, online shopping and deliveries exploded and possibilities surrounding automation and artificial intelligence zoomed to the forefront. Now as businesses consider the changing landscape, the use of automation and AI are weaving more tightly into the practices of many operations. A Permanent Shift At DHL Supply Chain, Kraig Foreman said the shifts that occurred in shopping patterns during the pandemic are here to stay. “It’s not a temporary change,” said Foreman, President, eCommerce, DHL Supply Chain, North America, of the rapidly rising levels of online shopping and home delivery. While such patterns were increasing before the pandemic, Foreman said that March and April of 2020 contained a big e-commerce spike coinciding with the spread of the coronavirus. The subsequent 2020 holiday season also presented major increased demand for e-commerce and delivery. At DHL, Foreman reported a “very successful peak season.” “There was a lot of work and effort in the industry to make it successful. Parcel carriers did a great job. I think retailers did smart things in bringing in promotions early, before Black Friday,” he said. “Overall, the industry did a great job considering the unprecedented level of volume.” The need for additional labor was apparent, however, both over the holidays and currently. “The more (e-commerce) expands, the more labor we’re going to need. That is where technology is going to be important,” Foreman said. Technology can help fill gaps, but Foreman added that businesses will also need to hone their appeals for workers. “When a shortage exists, as an employer in the market you have to win the contest for labor,” he said, noting this is something DHL has remained focused on – building a work environment and culture appealing to workers. Also important is “getting technology into our businesses that help reduce some of the burdens and also make the work content more appealing,” Foreman said. There are a host of growing areas in both automation and artificial intelligence that Foreman said is exciting for the industry, like advancing analytics. “That’s a big game-changer for the industry,” he said. “It is changing from us looking through the rearview mirror to looking through the windshield,” he said. Foreman also mentioned advancements in robotics as part of the new landscape, including picking robots. Robots Lend a Hand This is an area focused on at RightHand Robotics. “We are building data-driven, intelligent picking platforms useful for predictable order fulfillment,” said Vince Martinelli, head of product and marketing for the company. He noted the frequent number of points during the e-commerce process when a product needs to be handled. If robotics can help at some of those points, then he said the process can be streamlined. Picking automation has developed beyond what was envisioned even as recently as a decade ago, according to Martinelli, aided by the advancement of cameras. Cameras are cheaper and can now perceive depth, allowing a robot to be equipped to sort items from a pile. “This machine learning that has emerged in the last eight years that makes it such that you can teach and train systems to do cognitive tasks,” said Martinelli, who added that the advancement of gaming technology and related products have also translated to the material handling world. “Quite honestly, if not for gaming systems and other products we might not be able to make the kind of products we’re building,” he said. RightHand Robotics makes grippers that resemble a bird of prey grabbing things, according to Martinelli. “It’s based on our understanding of grasping technology,” he said. Some have asked why the company has not developed robotics for gripping that mimics the human hand, and Martinelli said the simple answer is that level of skill is not required. “The hand can do all kinds of sophisticated things we don’t need,” he said. With robotics that can simply and effectively automate picking, there is wide value to a range of companies, Martinelli said. “It frees up people in the building to do better and more complex things,” he said. Martinelli agreed with Foreman that the pandemic pushed demand for e-commerce ahead rapidly. Martinelli said the growth seemed to advance “about five years overnight.” “The numbers got stunningly large really fast,” he said. RightHand Robotics has been focused on providing products to medium to large size companies. The company has been revisiting its first generations of products, but a second-generation will be announced sometime later this year. The robots currently pick items about two kilograms in weight and less, which Martinelli said is a size that makes up about 90 percent of e-commerce shipping orders. He said the company will look at moving its robotics up to handling 5 to 10 kilograms at a time, but currently, the demand and interest at the lighter weights remain strong. The main goal of the robots is to make things easier in the running of an operation by weaving seamlessly into the business. “Sometimes I compare the guys who run fulfillment centers to being the captain of a big ship. They want to trust all the components of their facility,” Martinelli said. RightHand Robotics, therefore, works to supply the right amount of assistance to prevent waste, according to Martinelli. ‘A strong game plan’ In global calculations surrounding the latest e-commerce advancements, Foreman at DHL believes the U.S. is proceeding more quickly than Canada, with the latter impacted by geographic constraints. However, he said Europe is outpacing the U.S. in some areas, like network solutions. As all of the players worldwide work on advancement, Foreman is convinced e-commerce trends are here to stay based on how levels kept growing in areas where quarantines lifted. “I don’t believe consumer behavior is going to go backward and stop using it,” he said. “I think we’re growing from where we are today.” The entirety of the ripple effects of this sea change is still coming into focus. But what Foreman said is clear is that this shift means retailers are going to need “a strong game plan” going
Episode 152 – Accuracy with inVia Robotics
In this episode, I was joined by the CEO and Founder of inVia Robotics, Lior Elazary. You may remember Lior from our MODEX series last year on Episode 60 where we discussed the origins of inVia Robotics and how the landscape of robotics in the material handling industry has changed so dramatically. One thing that stuck out to me from our conversation was how the inVia solution does inventory control so in this episode Lior and I dive deeper into that discussion. Warehouse Safety Tip! – You will also notice that we are trying something new on this episode with the guest giving a warehouse safety tip in the beginning. Please let me know your thoughts on this by commenting below or emailing me at kevin@thenewwarehouse.com. Key Takeaways Lior and I previously spoke at MODEX in 2020 in-person which is hard to believe in our current virtual world. As a refresher inVia Robotics is a robot as a service-based business that provides AI-driven robots that help fulfillment centers become more efficient and help to meet their service level agreement without putting employees at risk of being overworked. Their solutions have come in as a huge help during the pandemic for their customers due to the ability of the robots to keep working when employees cannot. Lior explains how the robot combination with a put wall type of setup allows the robot to be able to pick the orders and fill the spaces within the put wall at times when employees are not there. This is a huge help to reduce downtime not only during the pandemic but also in other times when you may need to close down. Since the last time, we spoke COVID changed businesses dramatically so I asked Lior how inVia has done throughout the pandemic. He discusses how many companies have tried to find a way to survive but in doing so many have also been able to thrive. With businesses thriving, it has created higher demand on fulfillment workers which has created some difficulties for maintaining safety. Lior discusses how their first adaptation was to build into their technology a way to keep workers distanced from each other to avoid any germs being spread. Additionally, he gives a great story on how they implemented remote deployments for a customer in Japan. If you know anything about my background it has been focused on inventory control for the majority of my career so when our first conversation mentioned it I knew I wanted to explore it further at a later date. Our discussion around this is incredibly interesting because it highlights great aspects of the inVia solution that help to improve inventory accuracy but also robots in general. One interesting point that Lior makes is that the robot will never make a mistake, it works to a fault so if it goes to a location and the wrong tote is there it will tell you. In contrast, a human might not say anything or they may see the right product is in the location to the left of where they are supposed to pick from so they will take it from there and not say anything. The robot forces you to be accurate and also calls out your mistakes and due to it not being able to think to the left or right it will not try to solve the issue itself like a human. Lior also mentions some of the built-in features or the inVia solution like being able to check counts based on the weight and also the ability to have the totes taken to a certain place for a person to fix. Watch the video below for information on how to cycle counting with their solution works. Listen to the episode below and let us know if you think robots could make a dramatic improvement to your inventory accuracy in the comments. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 152: Accuracy with inVia Robotics
Flexible Digital/Retail fulfillment solution for Urban Outfitters in the USA
The new distribution center in Kansas City planned to support the significant growth of Urban Outfitters, Inc. The key automation feature is FlashPick® – the smart order fulfillment system for automated split case picking Urban Outfitters, Inc. (URBN), a lifestyle products and services company, which operates a portfolio of global consumer brands comprised of Anthropologie, BHLDN, Free People, Terrain, Urban Outfitters, Nuuly, and a Food and Beverage division has appointed TGW to design and implement an automation solution for their new fulfillment center in Kansas City, KS in the US. The project is due to go live in 2023. TGW’s FlashPick® system is at the heart of the solution. The FlashPick® design builds upon the URBN pilot program in the UK using TGW´s smart picking robot Rovolution, which picks orders fully automatically and ensures the next phase of picking is being addressed. TGW’s FlashPick® design incorporates two (2) PickCenter Rovolution workstations in Phase 1, along with forty-six (46) PickCenter One workstations. FlashPick® allows URBN to use the horsepower or “engine” to pick orders discreetly. The engine horsepower is harnessed by TGW’s PickCenter One workstations. TGW’s design incorporates the same workstations and software as in the UK. At goods receiving, cartons are emptied into totes and transported to the storage warehouse, which is used to feed the shuttle system. Totes are then transported to 46 goods-to-person workstations, where items are picked into target totes. The different areas are connected by an energy-efficient KingDrive® conveyor system. The TGW warehouse control system interfaces with a Manhattan WMS. Collaborative effort The collaborative effort between URBN and TGW in the US and UK means that regardless of the channel (Retail or Digital), the operational processes remain the same, and operational training for associates and maintenance support is simplified globally. Strong partner “TGW has been a strong partner, demonstrating agility of thinking in developing a solution that will enable capabilities to adapt our speed & efficiency to meet the needs of our rapidly growing business globally,” says Melinda McClure, Executive Director of North American Logistics. She adds: “The new facility, located in Kansas City, Kansas, will be highly automated, incorporate robotics, and provides the capacity necessary to support our fast-growing business. TGW supported us to design a modular solution we believe is simple, flexible, and adaptable to the future needs of our customers”. “The fulfillment center marks a new level of strategic collaboration between Urban Outfitters and TGW”, underscores Chad Zollman, CSO TGW North America, “It demonstrates our commitment to becoming the partner of choice for global warehouse automation fulfillment solutions.”
Seegrid introduces Palion Autonomous Mobile Robot Product Line
New Robot Product Line Self-Charges and Autonomously Stages Pallet Lanes for Uninterrupted Flow of Goods Seegrid Corporation, the provider in autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for material handling, has introduced the Seegrid Palion AMR product family, representing the company’s newest line of mobile robots that uniquely provide an automated material flow—increasing throughput productivity, improving employee and facility safety, reducing labor and operation costs, and driving continuous improvement. Seegrid announced that Palion is the new label for all its new and forthcoming autonomous mobile robots, as the company continues to build upon record-breaking growth. The company proudly unveiled an all-new Palion Pallet Truck with enhanced pallet staging and auto-charging capabilities. “Our customers span the global supply chain and are looking to accelerate productivity amidst pressures to reduce costs and improve safety,” said Jim Rock, Seegrid’s Chief Executive Officer. “It’s a challenge we at Seegrid are uniquely equipped to solve, and we are very proud of our demonstrated track record helping some of the largest global brands in manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, and e-commerce realize the full potential of AMR technology.” The new Palion Pallet Truck Series 8 with enhanced features and functionality is Seegrid’s latest version of its pallet truck. Most notably, the new pallet truck includes lane staging capabilities—autonomously identifying, building, and depleting lanes for precise, efficient pick-up and drop-off of palletized goods. The new pallet truck also features auto-charge, which removes a costly and dangerous human touchpoint and boosts productivity by automating the scheduling, dispatch, and charging to keep operations running 24/7. “Now more than ever, our customers need flexible and reliable end-to-end automation solutions to safely move materials in their dynamic environments,” said Jeff Christensen, Seegrid’s Vice President of Product. “Seegrid Palion AMRs are designed specifically to help customers improve safety, increase throughput, and address labor shortages. As the market leader, we will continue to deliver on our commitment to provide innovative solutions for customers to automate even more processes and applications for continued improvement and safety across their facilities.” Seegrid’s ability to build and deliver best-in-class AMRs offers compelling advantages for its growing list of customers, as companies across the supply chain accelerate automation initiatives amidst pressures to increase throughput and optimize workflow. With proprietary, patented technology, Seegrid provides the most robust and advanced navigation system on the market, uniquely designed and delivered with customer needs in mind. The approach is working; Seegrid recently reported it doubled revenue year-over-year for two years in a row, and the company projects continued increased growth in and demand for its automation solutions in the year ahead.