BlueBotics takes AGVs and AMRs outside
ANT everywhere, a new product extension by the Swiss autonomous navigation leader, enables a new era of AGV & AMR operations by making outdoor vehicle missions just as robust and precise as those indoors Swiss autonomous navigation provider BlueBotics has launched ANT everywhere, a new product extension for its industry-proven ANT navigation products that widen the scope of AGV and AMR operations by enabling effective outdoor operations. Outdoor use has traditionally been a challenge for producers of automated vehicles. This is because there are typically few permanent ‘features’ visible outdoors, which are required for modern mobile robots to calculate their exact position. Up to now, vehicle producers have addressed this challenge either by using ad-hoc navigation add-ons, such as patching a GPS system on top of an existing navigation product or by adding additional outdoor infrastructure, such as custom poles featuring reflectors. As a result, outdoor installations of AGVs and AMRs have often been highly customized (and therefore expensive), and more complex and time-consuming to install than equivalent indoor projects. A fully integrated indoor-outdoor solution ANT everywhere overcomes this challenge by adding an additional data source for navigation: GNSS with real-time kinematic (RTK) positioning. The result is a seamless indoor-outdoor navigation system that makes outdoor AGV and AMR operations just as robust and precise as those indoors. “Prior to today, use cases such as transporting components or finished goods from one building to another have not been an easy proposition for AGV and AMR makers. ANT everywhere changes that,” said Dr. Nicola Tomatis. “This tightly integrated product extension enables manufacturers to offer new and robust ‘ANT driven’ vehicles that are accurate, quick to install, and perform as expected, whatever the environment.” How ANT everywhere works When an ‘ANT driven’ vehicle is enabled with ANT everywhere, its navigation algorithm uses whichever data source is the most relevant at the time: Inside a building: ANT navigation uses its usual odometry, inertial measurement unit (gyroscope), and laser scanner data to calculate a vehicle’s exact position, matching permanent features in the environment with those stored in its onboard site map. When transitioning outside: with fewer features visible, GNSS data starts providing ANT with additional positioning information. Fully outside: with fewer or zero permanent features visible, GNSS data is given higher priority still. Thanks to BlueBotics’ advanced sensor fusion, the transition between indoor and outdoor is seamless. First installation: Barcelona Airport An ANT everywhere-enabled vehicle recently completed a successful proof of concept trial at Barcelona Airport. This groundbreaking and highly anticipated project was part of a joint initiative between Worldwide Flight Services and Spanish airport operator AENA, designed to validate the use of autonomous technology in Spanish airports. It ran for three months and involved Qatar Airways cargo being transported between Qatar’s cargo warehouse and BCN Terminal 1, with a total transport time of 20 minutes. The vehicle used was a 25-ton SIMAI tow tractor AGV by Spanish producer MOVVO. “We’ve successfully installed an ANT everywhere AGV at Barcelona Airport and customers from many other industries are also interested in this technology. Just think how many organizations’ processes involve going into and out of warehouses!” commented Jaume Graells Gallego, the General Manager of MOVVO. “We believe ANT everywhere has the potential to revolutionize AGV and AMR operations,” Tomatis added, “by making it easier for vehicle producers to develop and install AGVs and AMRs that can move reliably and precisely between indoor and outdoor environments. This, in turn, will allow vehicle manufacturers to expand their reach by meeting the needs of companies in industries ranging from steel, aluminum, and tire production, to airports, aerospace, agriculture, wood, paper, and many more.”
Plus One Robotics adds new Sales Directors
Plus One Robotics, a provider of AI vision perception software and solutions for robotic parcel handling, has expanded its sales team with two new sales directors, Ashley Iacozili and Scott Wagner, hired to strengthen the company’s sales leadership within the apparel, home goods, general merchandise, and third-party logistics markets. “Both Ashley and Scott have excellent sales records in managing and growing multi-million enterprise level accounts across material handling automation sectors,” said Robert Nilsson, chief revenue officer at Plus One. “Their professionalism and recognized expertise will help us quickly connect with new opportunities for both our parcel induction and depalletization solutions, inclusive of our unique human-in-the-loop capability enabling 24/7 fulfillment.” Iacozili has extensive sales experience, as an enterprise account manager at Covariant and Packsize International. There she built an impressive sales portfolio, inclusive of new customers, while collaboratively working with both internal and external cross-functional teams to develop and deliver robotic and packaging automation solutions. In addition to her education at the University of Akron, she also has several high level and strategic training certifications. Before joining Plus One, Wagner spent many years as a sales manager, most recently for Vecna Robotics, where he was responsible for enterprise account acquisition for Fortune 1000 companies within the CPG, Ecommerce, food and beverage, grocery, retail, and pharmaceutical markets. In addition to successfully bringing on new clients, Wagner oversaw the company’s first deployment in Mexico. Plus One has experienced nearly three-times year-over-year growth since the release of its PickOne solution in 2018, working with parcel post, general merchandise, and 3PL companies such as FedEx, Pitney Bowes, MSC Industrial, and more. Plus One deployments perform over one million parcel picks each day in production and currently hold an industry-leading metric of nearly one billion total picks.
CoEvolution’s latest rollout takes multi-fleet robot deployments to over 50
CoEvolution is rapidly achieving success in the multi-fleet robot orchestration market with the deployment of its market-leading AI-powered solutions. By deploying solutions to a warehouse serving South Korean retail giant Lotte it has expanded its reach to more than 50 settings Smart flexible factory and warehouse logistics solutions provider CoEvolution Technology is celebrating global success with over 50 deployments of its groundbreaking multi-vendor robot fleet orchestration technology. Founded in 2019, CoEvolution has grown into one of the most successful companies in the field of multi-vendor robot fleet orchestration software, continuously upgrading and optimizing its solutions based on real-world experience and valuable customer feedback. It recently celebrated a significant milestone in its development, with the rollout of its latest tailored solution at a warehouse serving South Korean retail giant Lotte, increasing throughput by 30% more SKUs per day. With its technology now assisting more than 50 companies around the world, CoEvolution has developed a wealth of practical experience that works alongside its innovative technological expertise to apply its multi-vendor fleet interoperability software effectively to customers’ operations. Utilizing the advantages of different logistics robots and providing cost-effective, flexible logistics solutions tailored to their processes through software and systems can help customers optimize their operations and expand their businesses. The ongoing evolution of CoEvolution CoEvolution’s multi-fleet solutions are based on AI-driven core software that can control different types of robots, coordinating them seamlessly to deliver multi-fleet solutions. Its impressive list of international customers includes companies in an array of sectors, including retail, electronics, e-commerce and manufacturing, with CoEvolution working collaboratively with each to create the ideal solution to meet their specific needs. The latest move by CoEvolution is its launch into the US market, becoming a US incorporated business and establishing a new office in Seattle. CoEvolution was co-founded by Dr Lijun Zhu, who has a PhD in Physics and extensive logistics experience, both in the US at Amazon and Alibaba in China. At Alibaba he worked at the logistics arm, on projects involving the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into logistics. He left in 2019 and assembled an expert team of co-founders who brought a range of tech, business development, AI, automation and logistics skills to the company he started. CoEvolution has flourished ever since, developing a market-leading suite of multi-orchestration solutions and offering customers such as Siemens, Lenovo, Lotte, SF Express, DHL, Yunda, MyMRO, Ruhlamat, and Wurth, the opportunity to control multi-vendor fleets of robots. CoEvolution’s software harnesses video game technology so that movements of multiple agents can be plotted in order to control real-world fleets of heterogenous robots. Dr Zhu saw the potential offered by AI-based technology to create value, having spent many years learning the ‘pain points’ in the logistics industry. He explains, “We are pioneers. It’s something that you would only do once you’ve played with robots and played with the traditional supply chain business for quite a long time.” CoEvolution has experienced a meteoric rise and now has more than 100 employees, over 50 deployments around the world, offices in both China and the US, and ambitious plans to expand its reach into Europe, where it is now seeking integrators and partners. Looking to the future for CoEvolution CoEvolution recently made its US debut at PROMAT 2023 and had a very successful show, launching its innovative AI-based flexible logistics technology onto the North American stage and bringing with it mainstream robot vendor partnerships such as Hai Robotics. Currently seeking new regional partners in the US, the company has ambitious plans for North America and for other international markets. It has recently incorporated in the US and is establishing its first US office in Seattle, headed up by CoEvolution Director Long Wong. CoEvolution is now hiring a workforce in the country and has appointed a new local project manager to help facilitate its expansion. This follows CoEvolution being selected by leading US tech business publication The Information as one of its 50 Most Promising Start Ups 2022. Recent data from market intelligence specialist Interact Analysis predicts a CAGR of 138% between 2021 and 2027 for multi-fleet orchestration technology. CoEvolution has ambitious plans for the future, with many more deployments in the pipeline and also plans to offer its groundbreaking AI-based interoperability solutions to the European market. As the cost of robotic technology continues to fall and companies discover the range of benefits and efficiency savings provided by automation, many are now starting to create multi-robot fleets from different vendors and integrate them with their existing operations, creating demand for increasingly complex logistics automation solutions. Dr Lijun Zhu, says,“Logistics is a very traditional field, you move real things around with very interesting and advanced mathematical models and software. I could see the value in that; you’re making an impact on the world, on real things. And my experience in the internet industry showed me that by applying advanced techniques you can create a lot of value. By reducing human labor, you’re increasing efficiency, you can see that. That makes me very excited. I did physics so I like to play with real things.” CoEvolution Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer, Michael Wang, explains, “Achieving in excess of 50 deployments is a huge landmark and we are happy to have cemented our place as a leading company in the field of multi-vendor robot fleet interoperability. Our ambitious plans will see us move far beyond this total, as manufacturing and warehousing continue to face logistics and staffing challenges that can be addressed through the use of efficient and flexible fleets of multiple robots from different vendors working together within shared environments. “The future looks very bright for CoEvolution and for multi-fleet robot orchestration. The increasing availability of relatively low cost and reliable robots means that the software element will be what distinguishes the best logistics solutions. This is the next step in warehouse and manufacturing, and we will remain at the forefront of the move towards greater automation, providing the means to control multi-vendor fleets of robots to deliver significant efficiency and productivity benefits to companies around
Kivnon partners with TAP for AGV/AMR Distribution
Kivnon, a global producer of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and automated guided vehicles (AGVs), has announced that TAP, an industrial solutions provider, will be distributing Kivnon automated guided vehicles (AGVs and AMRs.) Kivnon designs, manufactures, and implements automated guided vehicles (AGVs/AMRs) for a wide range of markets, including automotive, food, aerospace, and retail applications. Its products include small AGVs for use in labs; mouse AGV platforms that slide under and lift pallets; tractor AGVs that pull carts; and self-driving forklifts. Kivnon has partnered with TAP to leverage heightened AGV/AMR interest resulting from Industry 4.0 driven digital transformation. “This partnership marks a significant milestone for both of our companies. Thanks to TAP’s reach and automation expertise, we can supply autonomous vehicles to a larger audience with full confidence that TAP will implement them to take full advantage of their automation potential,” said Kivnon’s France Country Manager, Jose Pantaleao. TAP Group teams with companies across a broad spectrum of industrial segments with unique equipment solutions. Their Storagis brand is dedicated to storage projects, solutions, and equipment for automotive and logistic applications. Damien Marie, Sales Director of TAP Group, said, “TAP is proud to deal with KIVNON, one of the leaders of innovative and technological systems. Many of our clients’ projects involve advanced automation of material handling and warehousing operations, which involves deploying one or more AGVs or AMRs to reduce cost and increase productivity and safety. This is a real opportunity to optimize our clients’ supply chain.”
MassRobotics announces winner of Inaugural Robotics Medal recognizing accomplishments of Women in Robotics
MassRobotics, a robotics innovation organization, announced its inaugural Robotics Medal and Rising Star recipients at the IEEE ICRA conference in London on June 1, 2023. The Robotics Medal is the world’s first major prize to recognize the wide-ranging impact of female researchers focusing on the development of robotics around the globe. The Robotics Medal is awarded to a woman-identifying student/faculty nominated professor in robotics to recognize their impactful contributions to the field and includes a $50K prize awarded to the individual. The Rising Star Award recognizes up and coming woman-identifying persons making strides and advancing the field of robotics and includes a $5K award given to the individual. This inaugural MassRobotics Robotics Medal award, sponsored by Amazon Robotics, was presented to Nancy Amato at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign for her significant contributions to the field of robotics, notably for her research on the algorithmic foundations of motion planning, computational biology, computational geometry, and parallel computing. Alyssa Nicole Pierson, at Boston University, was awarded the MassRobotics Rising Star in Robotics Medal for her key contributions to the cooperative, distributed control of multi-agent teams. To encourage diversity in the field of robotics, Amazon established an endowment with MassRobotics in 2022 to support these two annual awards. The purpose of The Robotics Medal is not only to celebrate individual achievements, but also to inspire and encourage women and other underrepresented groups to participate in shaping the future of the world through robotics. “By endowing the Robotics Medal, we aspire to showcase and celebrate women robotics professors worldwide who have made a significant impact to the advancement of the field of robotics,” said Tye Brady, chief technologist at Amazon Robotics. “It is an honor to be the founding sponsor of the Robotics Medal and we are thankful for the significant contributions and teachings made by our rising stars and legendary pioneers in that field.” A call for nominations began at last year’s ICRA conference, with nominations coming from all around the United States including Texas, Washington, Massachusetts, Illinois, Minnesota, New York, and Pennsylvania, as well as around the globe from countries including Canada, Japan, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, and India. Submissions spanned a wide range of robotic technology fields and areas of research, from new materials for gripping, exoskeletons and assistive technologies, human robot interaction and motion planning. Since 2017, MassRobotics has grown from a Massachusetts-based incubator to a global robotics hub, helping support the adoption of robotics worldwide and providing startups with the resources needed to grow and scale. Of the current 80 startups that MassRobotics houses at its facility in Boston, more than 50% are from out of state and 25% are from outside the U.S. MassRobotics hosts STEM and robotics related initiatives specifically targeted for high school women and continues to promote women in robotics through events and networking to ensure women are recognized and heard. “We were thrilled by the overwhelming number of qualified nominations we received and impressed with the diversity of robotic fields and research happening across the globe,” said Joyce Sidopoulos, cofounder at MassRobotics. “It reflects the powerful contributions women have made and will continue to make to this important, vibrant and growing field supporting nearly all industries.” The Robotics Medal and Rising Star recipients were selected by a committee of robotics experts, led by MassRobotics, which convened several times and methodically evaluated the significance, depth and originality of technical contributions each nominee has made in the overall field of robotics. “The field of robotics requires the unique insights, inventiveness, and leadership of more female professionals to propel the science, engineering, and applications of this crucial discipline forward, and to inspire the ensuing wave of innovators,” says Daniela Rus, Director of the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) at MIT and member of the MassRobotics board. “The Robotics Medal signifies far more than its substantial monetary award. It symbolizes an acknowledgement and celebration of the remarkable achievements of women who not only pioneer in the field, but also inspire as role models, sparking the curiosity and ambition of the forthcoming generation of roboticists.” A formal Gala awarding the medals and celebrating the winners will be held in Boston at the Museum of Science on October 21st. The Museum of Science will highlight the medal winners in their ongoing Women in Technology initiative. Tickets and reserved tables for the event will be available shortly. MassRobotics has created an endowment and welcomes contributions to support future cash prizes for The Robotics Medal. Contact award@massrobotics.org to learn about becoming a founding underwriter of The Robotics Medal. Nominations for the 2024 Robotics Medal and Rising Star are now open. More information can be found here.
Comau unveils “MI.RA/PICKER” a fully automated perception-based random Bin Picking solution
Autonomously recognizes, locates and grasps randomly placed objects at a rate of up to 40 pieces per minute (PPM) Reduces complexity while ensuring optimal picking precision and efficiency for single or multiple bins measuring up to 1 meter tall “MI.RA/PICKER” helps increase throughput while reducing upstream process times, saving time, energy and resources Comau’s turn-key solution is based on advanced engineering, machine inspection and seamlessly integrated features Comau introduces “MI.RA/PICKER”, an intelligent advanced automation solution for perception-based random bin picking. Adaptable to any brand of commercial robot, customized bin or customized gripper, the fully automated picking solution uses two highresolution laser sensors and a central camera to autonomously recognize, locate and grasp randomly placed objects at a rate of up to 40 pieces per minute (PPM). Furthermore, its streamlined virtual simulation tools and predictive algorithms guarantee optimal path management and collision-free trajectories, for precise and reliable performance while lowering costs and potential risks. All said, the automated picking eliminates the need for unsustainable manual sorting activities, which increases both productivity and operator well-being. Designed with the support of Comau’s network of technology partners, the turn-key solution combines 3D vision technology, dual sensors and an intuitive programming interface to deliver best-in-class picking precision and efficiency for single or multiple bins containing unorganized rigid parts whose orientation and arrangement is unpredictable. And because products can be dumped into bins instead of placed in an orderly manner, MI.RA/Picker reduces upstream process times while ensuring a simplified logistic flow without singularization of the parts or rigid fixtures. MI.RA/Picker is the result of Comau’s systems-based approach to flexible automation, which allows the company to develop tailor-made, turn-key solutions using the most suitable equipment for the needs of each specific project. The newest product within Comau’s Machine Inspection Recognition Archetypes (MI.RA) family of hardwareagnostic, intelligent vision systems, MI.RA/Picker represents a concrete, cost-effective answer to automate the complexity of collision-free random bin and piece picking operations. As such, it is perfect for the food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, plastics, electric/ electronics, metal and machinery and automotive industries. “Comau’s ongoing commitment to shaping innovation through advanced automation is seen in our ability to make complex technology more accessible and effective,” said Nicole Clement, Chief of Advanced Automation Solutions Business Unit. “We believe, based on internal estimates and supporting market research, that the random bin and piece picking market could reach $1.2B by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of 76% (2019-2025). In this light, our novel approach to intelligent random bin picking for machine tending, pick&place and kitting operations, among others will undoubtedly help our customers increase both their process quality and production capacity.”
KPI Solutions announces Kyle Smith joins as Vice President Product Management
KPI Solutions (KPI), a supply chain consulting, software, systems integration, and automation supplier has announced that Kyle Smith has joined the company as Vice President Product Management. In this role, Kyle will set the strategy and direction for software product delivery with a focus on enhancing clients’ investment in automation technologies. By leveraging the power of the Opto modular, intelligent software platform, clients can orchestrate labor, orders, and equipment to maximize operational efficiency and enable dynamic decision-making. “I’m excited to join KPI Solutions as we continue the expansion of software capabilities that enable today’s leading automation technologies to increase throughput capacity and improve operational flow across our clients’ facilities,” said Smith. “Automation has switched up the game for software. Our proprietary Opto suite will quickly integrate with any existing client material handling equipment and software, balance workflows across assets, and ultimately improve warehouse performance.” “We are happy to welcome Kyle to the KPI Solutions team and leverage his expertise to guide and direct further development of the Opto software suite,” said Mike Conrath, Chief Product and Technology Officer at KPI. “Opto combines advanced functionality with flexibility to create a stable, reliable, and secure operations platform that delivers increased order fulfillment speed from optimized equipment and labor for our clients.” Kyle joins KPI Solutions after 10+ years in roles of increasing responsibility at leading WMS provider Blue Yonder/JDA Software/Red Prairie. He most recently served as Vice President, Warehouse Management Solutions where he focused on understanding evolving client software requirements and integration to advanced automation technologies, delivering excellent customer service, and developing product roadmaps. Prior to working in the software industry, he worked directly in warehouse operations and management at Burt’s Bees and Office Depot.
OTTO Lifter named Material Handling Solution of the Year
OTTO Motors, a provider of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), just announced that its autonomous forklift, OTTO Lifter, has been recognized as the SupplyTech Breakthrough Material Handling Solution of the Year. This award recognizes the world’s best supply chain products and technologies that are breaking through in a crowded market. Among over 1,400 nominations, OTTO Lifter was selected as the Material Handling Solution of the Year for its innovative and unique approach to automating manual pallet transport workflows. Built on OTTO Motors’ fourteen years of industry-leading robotics experience and over four million production hours, OTTO Lifter seamlessly navigates traffic and obstacles, predictably and precisely delivering materials to the right place at the right time. With a payload capacity of 1,200 kg, the innovative autonomous forklift optimizes productivity for warehouses by maximizing speed without compromising safety, resulting in faster mission completion times and the highest customer ROI. “We only launched OTTO Lifter a little over a year ago in March 2022 to unlock new pallet transport workflows for the manufacturing industry,” said Jay Judkowitz, Vice President of Product at OTTO Motors. “OTTO Lifter was built to address two key material handling challenges: labor shortages and workplace safety. After only a year, the autonomous forklift is already rising to these challenges as the most productive, safe solution on the market, and we are honored that it has been recognized as 2023’s Material Handling Solution of the Year.” Supplytech Breakthrough honors the creativity, hard work and success of companies, technologies and products within the supply chain and logistics sectors. The nominations are judged for innovation, performance, functionality, value, impact and ease of use. Winners, like OTTO Lifter, are selected because they are innovative solutions that address a true need, solve a complex or critical problem, and seize an opportunity to revolutionize a new market or industry.
Plus One Robotics appoints Martin Aalund as VP of Product Engineering
Plus One Robotics, a provider of AI vision perception software and solutions for robotic parcel handling, has announced the appointment of Martin Aalund as VP of product engineering. Aalund will be responsible for leading the company’s team of hardware and software engineers and developers, as well as managing the engineering budget. He will focus on refining existing products and developing new products and services to meet emerging customer requirements. This includes ensuring that designs are well documented, on schedule and meet quality, safety and reliability standards. “Martin is an incredible match for Plus One”, said Shaun Edwards, chief technical officer. “We feel confident that his management skills and intense knowledge across optics, software, mechanical and electrical domains will enhance our engineering team and the value of our solutions for our customers.” Aalund comes to Plus One with over 30 years’ robotic experience, including employment at Amazon where he was a senior engineering manager and part of the team that deployed the first industrial robots at the company. He was also a founding member, then president/CTO of Arm Automation, which develops custom-engineered equipment and automation solutions to a variety of industries. His experience has included the development of robots, robotic cells, subsea ROVs, factory automation, metrology, mechatronics, and consumer products for multi-processor computers. Aalund has a bachelor’s, master’s and a Ph.D. in engineering from the University of Texas at Austin. He has also been an adjunct professor at Santa Clara University where he taught courses in robotics and automation for both graduate and undergraduate classes.
Seven ways to get ROI from Robotics Integration in manufacturing
Technology is rapidly reshaping the way business is conducted, particularly for manufacturers. Robotics are poised to transform the entire manufacturing industry, and many business leaders are finding themselves faced with difficult decisions in regard to automation and robotics in their manufacturing facilities. At the core of these decisions is the calculation of what type of return on investment a robotic integration would provide. Here are seven factors to look at when evaluating potential ROI from the integration of robotics in your manufacturing facility. EFFICIENCY Efficiency is one of the most important measurables in business, and a robotic integration is likely to meet or exceed your expectations. Improved efficiency is often experienced in critical areas such as manufacturing processes, product throughput, uptime, and energy. RELIABILITY Reliability is an essential part of your production and planning process, and by choosing a robotic solution over fixed automation, your potential failures are minimal. The mean-time-between-failure of a FANUC robot, for example, is documented at 78,000 hours, depending on the model. UPTIME Uptime associated with a FANUC robotic turnkey system designed, built, and integrated by Wauseon Machine is very high when proper preventive maintenance practices are followed. FLEXIBILITY Flexibility of our turnkey systems allows you to not only reprogram your robot as required when processes change, but also allows you to retool, redeploy, or redevelop your equipment in a more cost effective manner than other fixed automation solutions. QUALITY Quality is built into every robotic system we deliver. Our vertical integration provides us with control over the design and build of a complete system, including components that are typically outsourced. Your project stays with us from start to finish. REPEATABILITY TOLERANCES Repeatability tolerances unachievable by a human operator can be reached with a robot. Companies who choose robotic automation may experience quality and employee safety improvements throughout the entire process flow. PRODUCTIVITY Productivity improvements will be witnessed quickly. Your downtime will decrease, throughput will increase, and total hours in production will be higher when compared to traditional human labor. About The Author: Wauseon Machine and its sister company, McAlister Design & Automation, are industry leaders in robotics automation, tube fabrication equipment, and build-to-print precision machines parts. With 40 years of experience, the company has four separate focus plants dedicated to Tube-Forming Technologies, Robotic Automation, and Precision Machining. Across their plants, they focus on tool development, machine building, automation, and providing contract CNC production machining of volume and custom precision piece parts and components for other companies. Wauseon Machine / MD&A are best in class suppliers of system integration to incorporate automation into a variety of industries, applications and cutting edge technologies for manufacturing. For more information, visit https://www.wauseonmachine.com.
AutoScheduler wins Top Food Chain Technology Award for 2nd consecutive year
AutoScheduler.AI, an innovative Warehouse Management System (WMS) accelerator, has been named a 2023 Top Food Chain Technology company by Food Chain Digest, the official magazine of the Food Shippers of America (FSA). This recognition program highlights technology platforms, applications, and innovators that help food shippers solve problems in their supply chains. AutoScheduler helps global food shippers smooth operations in their warehouse/distribution center, improving on-time fulfillment that keeps shelves stocked and customers happy. “This recognition is a testament to our commitment to optimizing the warehouses and distribution centers of food shippers, helping these global businesses to streamline operations, improve efficiencies, and ensure the timely delivery of food products to consumers,” says Keith Moore, CEO, AutoScheduler.AI. “Addressing the recent challenges of the food shipping industry requires technology-driven, innovative solutions like AutoScheduler’s intelligent warehouse orchestration and optimization platform that drive value through mitigating risk in distribution and warehousing operations.” “Technology has become the backbone of the food supply chain,” says Brian Everett, group publisher and editorial director of Food Chain Digest. “Technology platforms, applications, and innovators have emerged in the food and beverage market to help bring more efficiency, productivity, and transparency to the food chain. This recognition program highlights leaders like AutoScheduler that are readily available to food shippers in helping them to accomplish their business goals.” The 2023 Top Food Chain Technology Award follows a stringent process involving meeting the annual global sales threshold, editorial evaluation from Food Chain Digest staff, and validation by an industry-wide vote involving more than 1500 professionals in the food supply chain, transportation, warehousing, and distribution. AutoScheduler attained the votes required to be included on this prestigious list. Winners will be highlighted in Edition 2 of the magazine and FSA’s Food for Thought eNewsletter. For food companies, AutoScheduler drives higher degrees of warehouse labor utilization, reduces labor costs, and increases order fulfillment rates. Its advanced AI technology visualizes all operations at a distribution center and optimizes labor, equipment, touches, and inventory to drive efficiencies.
Hargrove Controls & Automation’s Sean Phillips receives CSIA’s 2023 Rising Star Award
Senior Project Manager Sean Phillips, P.E. of Hargrove Controls & Automation, an industrial automation system integrator and a subsidiary of global EPC firm Hargrove Engineers & Constructors, was presented the prestigious 2023 Rising Star Award at the 2023 Control System Integrators Association (CSIA) Executive Conference in New Orleans, LA. CSIA recognizes individuals and organizations for their contributions to the industry at an annual award’s banquet held during the annual Executive Conference. There are five award categories and the ‘Rising Star Award’ is awarded to an individual who is relatively new to the industry yet has shown attributes of a leader. Recipients also demonstrate that they are a person whose career is on the rise due to their dedication to innovation. “Sean consistently exemplifies excellence. In every facet of his work, our fundamental principles of safety, integrity, quality, teamwork, and innovation shine through,” said Hargrove Controls & Automation’s Leader of Projects Doug Sumpter. “Sean possesses an unwavering commitment to continuous learning and enhancing his performance in any role he undertakes. He never settles for merely meeting expectations; instead, he surpasses them and establishes new heights with each endeavor.” Phillips began his career in Control Systems engineering in 2014, starting as a co-op with Hargrove Controls & Automation. With his aptitude as a life-long learner and ability to lead strategically, Phillips quickly gained an engineering lead position and began leading jobs within two years of graduating college from Auburn University. Since then, he has transitioned into a Technical Lead position and now serves as a Senior Project Manager (PM) at Hargrove Controls & Automation. Phillips is a member of the Control Engineering/Plant Engineering’s Engineering Leaders Under 40 Class of 2022, which recognizes young professionals who have made a significant contribution to the success of their organization and community. He also serves as the President of the Mobile-Pensacola “Emerald Coast” Chapter of the International Society of Automation (ISA), where he is committed to helping develop talent and inspire action in the local community of industry professionals. “My motto is use hard work to capitalize on unique opportunities. Lean on the ones who build you up, whether it be an inspirational granddad or an incredibly supportive significant other. Let them be the push you need to make an impact,” Phillips said at the awards ceremony. “In regard to opportunities, everyone has them in one form or another, albeit some greater than others. But recognizing the opportunities for what they are is difficult to do while remaining in familiar territory. That’s why I believe stepping out of the work environment for events such as the CSIA Executive Conference puts you at an advantage. How are you going to capitalize on the unique opportunities presented to you?”
Zion Solutions Group drives growth in material handling automation amidst economic changes
Zion Solutions Group is steering the growth of material handling automation amidst evolving economic conditions. With a proven track record in full-service supply chain integration, Zion Solutions Group redefines the landscape of material handling automation, guiding businesses toward resilience and prosperity. As the United States faces rising labor costs, businesses are increasingly turning to automation. The latest ITR Report projects a mild recession in 2024 but also predicts a five-year recovery and growth plan, avoiding a scenario akin to the Great Recession. Concurrently, the surge in onshoring and nearshoring manufacturing facilities creates fresh opportunities for domestic manufacturing. In this landscape, Zion Solutions Group’s transformative integration of automated material handling takes center stage. “Now, more than ever, it is crucial to partner with a systems integrator like Zion. We understand that the world evolves every day, and companies that proactively embrace these changes emerge stronger, more nimble, and built to last. Leveraging our team’s expertise, industry partnerships, and advanced technologies, we help businesses reduce costs, enhance efficiency, and expedite time to market through automation. We believe our customers can gain a competitive advantage and effectively prepare for the growth that lies ahead in the material handling industry,” emphasized Jim Shaw, President of Zion Solutions Group. Zion Solutions Group empowers businesses with optimal material handling automation by seamlessly orchestrating people, robotics, software, and material handling systems through a unified platform, eliminating the need for fragmented and complex technologies. Implementing automated solutions streamlines tasks enhances employee satisfaction, and improves efficiency—a crucial advantage during economic uncertainty. Automation also drives business expansion, fosters job growth, and ensures process efficiency. “At Zion Solutions Group, we utilize the Zion Life Cycle, an industry-leading best practice that guides customers through transformative changes. We encourage our clients to plan ahead, confront uncertainty, and proactively embrace the necessary changes. Waiting until the change becomes unavoidable is not the optimal approach,” added Shaw. With over 90 years of industry experience, Zion Solutions Group stands at the forefront of the trending growth in material handling automation. By equipping businesses with automation, Zion Solutions Group empowers them with resilience and agility to navigate economic downturns successfully.
Lucas Systems announces new warehouse technology to serve a Gen Z workforce
Distribution center technology provider Lucas Systems announced its rollout of new technologies promising productivity, comfort, and ease of use to a Gen Z warehouse workforce of the future. The technologies – built to serve the new “iGeneration” of workers born between 1997 and 2012 – promise a reduction of worker stress, a less physically-taxing work experience, and help for on-floor supervisors by providing the tools needed to be more agile. New technologies include: An all-new supervisor management console that provides leadership with a high degree of flexibility and agility to customize data, dashboards, and analytics specific to their operation and needs. Supervisors and managers can get actionable information in a way that’s easy to understand and use through fully-customizable consoles. Improvements in reducing worker travel. Lucas Systems’ new algorithms and machine learning smarts help workers take up to 50% fewer steps inside the warehouse by showing them the optimal path to navigate. This is a relief to physically stressed on-floor workers as they can often walk 5-10 miles in just one day. The ability for on-floor workers to use the smallest wearables for scanning. Lucas Systems certified its voice-enabled optimization suite, Jennifer, to run on a Zebra WS50, the world’s smallest all-in-one Android enterprise-class wearable mobile computer. These solutions and other insights around technology training, warehouse environments, and new methods for division of labor resulted from Lucas Systems in-depth interviews with warehouse workers as well as a commissioned study, polling 500 U.S. warehouse workers nationwide. The research examined workers’ relationships with technology as well as their fears, expectations, and perceptions about their daily jobs. Additional insights were released today in Lucas Systems guide, Competing for The Warehouse Workforce of the Future, along with recommendations for attracting and retaining a future workforce with unique attitudes around loyalty, work-life balance, and workplace satisfaction. One insight is that a majority of Gen Z workers (73%) say robots will help them achieve greater accuracy and speed in their jobs. “These are all signs that tomorrow’s warehouses will need to operate differently than they do today,” says Lucas Systems CMO Ken Ramoutar. “Gen Z workers expect to use modern technologies like they use at home. Handheld and personalized, the tech must be easy to use and must help them save time and mitigate exertion.” Ramoutar says Lucas Systems recent tech advancements and its research insights offer a warning shot to warehouse operators who aren’t willing to adapt and change.
Episode 390: Touring warehouse automation with Tecsys
In the latest episode of The New Warehouse podcast, Kevin Lawton sits down with Guy Courtin, the VP of Industry and Advanced Technology at Tecsys. With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Tecsys is a leading supply chain software provider specializing in solving complex warehouse and distribution challenges. In this episode, Guy shares his insights on warehouse automation, the evolving landscape of the industry, and the role Tecsys plays in helping businesses meet their customers’ needs. The Spectrum of Automation Solutions Many industry professionals hold misconceptions about the nature and extent of warehouse automation. Courtin emphasizes that a fully automated, lights-out warehouse is not the immediate reality for most businesses. Instead, he reveals the many automation solutions available for specific use cases within the warehouse. Companies can gradually introduce automation and acclimate their employees and systems to its benefits by starting with targeted automation implementations, such as automating dunnage movement. Tackling Labor Hurdles with Tecsys The mounting labor scarcity in the warehousing sector presents considerable roadblocks for businesses. In response to this pressing issue, warehouse managers increasingly turn to advanced automation strategies to enhance their workforce capabilities and streamline operations. Cutting-edge solutions such as Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) have captured the industry’s attention, serving as powerful allies to human labor and lightening the load on warehouse personnel. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to acknowledge that striking a balance between human-robot collaboration often yields better results than relying solely on full-scale automation. The true value lies in integrating automation selectively, creating a harmonious blend of human and robotic collaboration to address specific challenges and enhance operational efficiency. Tecsys on Becoming a Trusted Advisor Businesses are looking for guidance in navigating the diverse landscape of warehouse automation. Tecsys aims to be a trusted advisor for its customers, offering expertise, knowledge, and access to a broad network of automation vendors and industry experts. By organizing automation tours, Tecsys provides valuable insights into various automation solutions and helps customers understand the possibilities and limitations of each technology. This approach allows businesses to make informed decisions and tailor automation implementations to their needs. Key Takeaways Start small and focused: Rather than striving for full automation, consider implementing targeted automation solutions that address specific pain points in your warehouse operations. This approach allows for incremental adoption of automation and smoother integration with existing workflows. Embrace collaboration between humans and robots: The goal of warehouse automation should not be to replace human workers but to enhance their capabilities and alleviate labor challenges. Successful automation strategies blend the strengths of both human and robotic workers to optimize productivity and efficiency. Seek expert advice and explore options: The vast automation landscape is constantly evolving. Engage with trusted advisors, industry experts, and vendors to comprehensively understand the available automation solutions. Automation tours, like the ones organized by Tecsys, offer valuable opportunities to explore different technologies and make informed decisions. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 390: Touring Warehouse Automation with Tecsys
Plus One Robotics hires John Crimmins as Sr. Solutions Architect
Plus One Robotics, a provider of advanced AI vision software and solutions for robotic parcel handling, has announced the hiring of John Crimmins as a senior solutions architect. Crimmins is responsible for developing automation solutions that expand the implementation of Plus One technology within the logistics industry. “John will leverage the experience he gained while designing automated warehouses for Amazon and Dematic to architect solutions for Plus One’s customers that incorporate 3D vision-guided manipulators to improve warehouse productivity,” said Paul Hvass, Co-founder and CSO at Plus One Robotics. “His track record of capturing and documenting customer requirements through site surveys and operations engagement will accelerate the adoption of robots in the warehouse.” Crimmins has experience in developing automated solutions for general merchandise, parcel, e-commerce, 3PL, temperature-controlled (fridge and freezer), and B2B industries. He has worked at some of the largest logistics companies in the world including Walmart, Dematic, Amazon Robotics, and Vanderlande Industries where he led a $1 billion project at the LAX Airport and Southern California baggage handling systems. Most recently, he was a manager of solution design at Vicarious, a robotics software company that was recently acquired by Alphabet. Crimmins has a Bachelor of Science in industrial engineering from Kettering University (Flint, Mich.).
SVT Robotics names David Bates as VP of Customer Success
Bates will streamline technology onboarding and optimize the customer experience SVT Robotics, a provider of enterprise software for the integration and deployment of industrial robotics, has announced the appointment of David Bates as Vice President of Customer Success. In his position, Bates will be responsible for optimizing the onboarding process of new SOFTBOT® Platform users, as well as the overall growth of the platform’s user base. “SVT’s customer base has grown significantly in recent years, and we’re committed to maintaining the highest standard of customer care and ensuring a productive and fulfilling user experience,” said A.K. Schultz, co-founder and CEO of SVT Robotics. “David brings with him a deep background in product-led growth, specifically in the B2B space as well as in the supply chain. We are excited to have him join our team and we’re certain that he’ll provide SOFTBOT users, new and existing, with tremendous value.” Bates joins the SVT team after most recently serving as Vice President, Software, Controls and Integration Unit – Americas at Swisslog, a global provider of robotic intralogistics solutions. Prior to Swisslog, Bates held the position of Chief Technology Officer at Perfect Commerce, a B2B sourcing, procurement, and billing software company. “I have always been focused on ensuring that teams, technology, and systems meet customer objectives and exceed expectations,” said Bates. “It is a pleasure to join the SVT Robotics team. I look forward to contributing to the continued success of the company by streamlining new user onboarding processes and growing the SOFTBOT Platform customer base.” Bates resides in Yorktown, Virginia, and holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the Virginia Military Institute.
KPI Solutions expands with a new Atlanta Office extending resources for Eastern US Clients & Technology Partners
Industry veteran Chris Barber leads the eastern regional team to provide sales and service that transforms companies’ distribution and fulfillment operations KPI Solutions (KPI), a supply chain consulting, software, systems integration, and automation supplier has announced the addition of an Atlanta office to be led by experienced industry veteran, Chris Barber. With this new Alpharetta location, KPI further expands its North American footprint, offering end-to-end services and customized supply chain solutions including consulting, engineered concept design, systems integration, warehouse software, and lifetime support services. “We are excited to open this Atlanta office to better serve our clients from initial planning discussions to go-live of successful and transformative distribution projects,” said Chris Barber, Vice President at KPI Solutions. “The KPI Team is committed to designing and delivering customized and innovative solutions that accelerate productivity and drive efficiencies in our client’s warehousing and distribution operations.” “This Atlanta location allows proximity not only to our clients but also to a substantial base of our automation technology providers and local tech talent,” added Ron Adams, Chief Commercial Officer at KPI Solutions. “Our team stands ready to further the creation of long-lasting value for clients as we leverage our breadth of experience coupled with world-class automation partnerships to profitably address today’s warehousing challenges.” KPI Solutions was formed in 2021 with the combination of Kuecker Logistics Group, Pulse Integration, and QC Software. In 2022, the company acquired Precision Distribution Consultants, SIMCOM Solutions, and Commonwealth Supply Chain Advisors.
Hargrove Controls & Automation retrofits Brownfield Plant for Bioplastics Company Danimer Scientific
Hargrove Controls & Automation, an industrial automation system integrator and a subsidiary of global EPC firm Hargrove Engineers & Constructors, retrofitted an existing 88,000-sq-ft brownfield facility in Winchester, Ky for the biotechnology company Danimer Scientific, leading the future of plastics. Danimer Scientific develops renewable and sustainable polymers that reduce dependency on petrochemicals. Recognizing the market demand for products that are compostable alternatives to single-use plastics, they develop revolutionary biodegradable plastics that utilize an environmentally friendly PHA. They needed to upscale their demonstration plant process into an automated manufacturing facility. “We are so excited about what we make because this solution is very much needed by the world. Hargrove worked hand-in-hand with our team of scientists and engineers to take a demonstration plant process and scale it into full production at a brownfield facility,” said Michael Smith, COO of Danimer Scientific. “We aren’t a typical manufacturing company as we initially didn’t have an inside engineering group. Hargrove was a true partner to us with excellent communication on every step of the process to bring this unique product to market.” Due to their biotechnology being so new, Danimer needed a completely unique process design to take their product out of the pilot phase and into reality. They needed an integrator to guide them through the process of automating and designing a functional facility so that they could begin raising capital. The project had intense budget and scheduling constraints to meet stakeholders’ expectations. “This new process was one of a kind and required a unique approach. I’m proud of the team’s ability to take on the challenge and be agile and innovative to deliver the solution that Danimer needed,” said Josh Payne, Division Leader at Hargrove Controls & Automation. “We look forward to future work with Danimer to help them continue to grow and find success in the market.” Hargrove Controls & Automation utilized their experience in the life sciences industry and their ability to design pioneering processes to guide Danimer Scientific through the journey of transforming the Kentucky facility into a fully realized manufacturing plant. To learn more information about the project, read this article.
Machinery Manufacturer Norwalt opens facility in Tampa expanding footprint and capacity
The new plant increases the company’s floorspace by 25%, with room for adjacent buildouts to accommodate growth in medical devices and other niches Norwalt, a specialist in custom-built automation and line integration machinery for complex manufacturing applications, has commenced operations at a new production facility in Tampa, FL. A satellite site to the company’s primary plant in Randolph, NJ, the new facility increases Norwalt’s overall production floor space by 25% and features buildout potential for adjacent areas moving forward. For Norwalt, the expansion is rooted both in current necessity and near-future opportunity. In recent years, the company has seen an unprecedented growth surge, prioritizing additional space to continue to meet expedited equipment delivery timeframes. With Norwalt anticipating future growth, the Tampa plant also provides ample elbow room to accommodate additional business. Mirroring the New Jersey facility, the Florida plant will be utilized for the full gamut of Norwalt’s concept-to-completion capabilities set. The company’s engineers design, construct, validate, and install premium production equipment whose functionalities include – but are by no means limited to – packaging and product assembly, post-mold automation, modular automation cells, and robotics systems. Norwalt serves customers in a wide array of sectors, from medical devices and food & beverage applications to personal care and household items. Among these sectors, Norwalt views medical devices and diagnostics as one particularly primed for growth. The industry depends upon pristine, tight-tolerance plastics components and products manufacturing, a niche that aligns well with Norwalt’s core engineering expertise. The company has ample experience designing solutions for pipette and vial inspection and assembly, medical valve and personal device assembly, and diagnostic test kit assembly. “While we’ve incrementally added floorspace to our New Jersey headquarters over our five decades in business, the Tampa plant marks our first dedicated secondary facility,” said Keith Harman, Director of Business Development for Norwalt. “In an ever-evolving manufacturing environment, demand continues to surge for automation and line integration machinery that minimizes downtime, maximizes efficiency, and tackles otherwise labor-intensive tasks.”