Logistics operations have traditionally relied heavily on human labour. However, with complex market dynamics, rising operational costs, and a shortage of skilled workers, the need for automation has never been greater. To meet the increasing volume and unpredictable demand, e-commerce and third-party logistics (3PL) companies are looking for ways to streamline their operations and make them more responsive and adaptable. The solution? Flexible and scalable intelligent robotics automation.

Current Challenges in Logistics

Supply chain operations are facing a significant challenge as consumers demand faster and more personalised delivery services. The rise of e-commerce and on-demand delivery services has contributed to this trend, as consumers expect to receive their orders promptly and with accuracy standards. The current economic climate, marked by the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on global trade, has made it particularly difficult for supply chain operations to meet these expectations and avoid delays and disruptions.

In addition to the growing complexity of global supply chains, the logistics industry faces a shortage of skilled labour. This can make finding and retaining qualified workers difficult, leading to increased labour costs and operational expenses. Inaccuracy and inefficiency in operations can also lead to high operating costs, damages, pilferages, and errors, ultimately resulting in reduced customer satisfaction.

arculee to The Rescue

Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), like our arculee, are at the forefront of intelligent robotics in logistics automation and can address many of the operational and labour-related challenges mentioned above. These autonomous robots can navigate their environment using sensors, marker stickers, lasers, machine learning, and artificial intelligence algorithms while working alongside humans. Here's what AMRs such as the arculee bring to the table:

• Higher processing speed: AMRs can handle the movement of goods, allowing logistics operations to run continuously for 24 hours with rotations, high accuracy, and energy efficiency.
• Higher personnel productivity: By taking on mundane and repetitive tasks, the arculees free up human resources to focus on other key areas, significantly increasing personnel productivity.
• Sustainable workflow: With the help of the arculus software solutions, AMRs can use the most efficient path for material handling while navigating around human workers. This makes the process highly adaptable, sustainable, and energy efficient.

• Less space required: Many small and mid-sized warehouses and fulfilment centres have limited space. AMRs are more compact than other material handling systems, making them suitable even for smaller logistics outfits.
• Reduced risk of personnel injuries and damage to goods: AMRs' ability to navigate around other workers and obstacles helps prevent collisions and reduces the risk of workplace injuries and damages.
• Improved competitiveness: Using intelligent robotics can also help logistics companies stay competitive in an increasingly globalized market. By automating certain tasks, companies can reduce their reliance on human labour and improve their overall efficiency, giving them a competitive edge.
• Cost savings: While the initial investment in AMRs and AGVs may be high, the long-term savings can be substantial. These robots don't require salaries or benefits; and can work for extended periods without needing maintenance or repairs. This can significantly reduce labour costs and increase profitability.

Bottom line

In conclusion, the future of logistics operations relies on intelligent robotics. From their ability to handle tasks with accuracy and efficiency to the cost savings and improved safety they provide, the adoption of AMRs is set to play a crucial role in the industry's continued growth and success. As the demand for logistics automation continues to grow, integrating these intelligent robots will be essential for the success of logistics operations around the world.