2024 holds immense potential for warehouse automation trends and technologies that will continue to transform the way we store, organise, and distribute goods. From advanced robotics and artificial intelligence to innovative data analytics and cloud-based systems, L-A-C are delivering warehouse solutions that are tailored to the needs of the modern warehouse.
Without a doubt, automated warehouse solutions are revolutionising the way warehouses operate and are becoming increasingly essential for organisations aiming to stay competitive in the modern business landscape. Robotic systems such as Automated Storage (AS) and Retrieval Systems (AR) that automatically store and retrieve boxes, totes, or trays, are no longer a luxury but a necessity for companies to remain competitive. L-A-C run us through 5 key processes that can be dramatically improved by implementing the Exotec Skypod System.
1. Order picking
Order picking is the most labour-intensive and costly part of the order fulfilment process. It directly correlates with customer satisfaction, as it affects order fulfilment accuracy, delivery times and stock availability. Order picking is generally considered the most crucial aspect of the order fulfilment process and forms the basis for the successful functioning of e-commerce businesses.
Robotic automated storage and retrieval systems increase warehouse productivity by reducing the time required for order picking, resulting in faster order processing and delivery. This is achieved by using innovative hardware and software capable of transporting ordered goods to ergonomic picking stations.
2. Replenishing stock
Like order picking, stock replenishment in non-automated warehouses is usually complex, physically demanding and time-consuming. This process can be made more productive and efficient by implementing automated storage and distribution systems that deploy robots to move goods between stations and high-density storage racks. The elimination of labour-intensive and repetitive tasks presents immense benefits for workers.
Maximising warehouse capacity has become a major focus for many operators. To mitigate this, storage can be increased by maximising the use of available vertical space combined with high-density storage racks. This allows companies to utilise all available space without the need to expand into additional buildings.
3. Processing returns
Efficient processing of returns has become increasingly important for businesses, as return rates rise to 20-30% for online orders. Manually processing such high numbers of returns can burden staff and impact inventory costs, however, robotic retrieval systems can provide an optimal solution by simplifying the sorting and storage of returns.
The Exotec Skypod system, for example, uses a Bin Interface, which automates the infeed and outfeed of up to 320 bins per hour to and from high-density storage racks. This ensures an efficient flow of goods and reduces the risk of misplacing stock.
4. Order buffering
Order buffering involves storing completed orders in a storage system where they can be retrieved at a later time. This is key in reducing order fulfilment time and benefits many industries, including food, manufacturing, healthcare, 3PLs and retail businesses.
Exotec’s Skypod system enables companies to efficiently buffer orders by transporting completed orders from stations to Bin Interfaces via Exotec’s modular transport system called Skypath. Outgoing completed orders are moved from the Bin Interface to the Skypath conveyor and on to the next stages of order processing.
5. Managing stock
Robotic systems improve order accuracy by reducing the likelihood of human error. Intuitive workstation interfaces and tools such as pick-to-light and put-to-light offer employees a more predictable and manageable working environment compared to the lengthy process of manually locating products. Intelligent software also makes it possible to capture inventory information throughout the system, providing accurate and easily analysed data on demand.
The future-ready warehouse
With the complex challenges facing modern warehouses today, finding ways to speed up processes and increase efficiency is a prerequisite for success. Exotec’s Skypod system supports organisations by transforming key areas and processes in the warehouse and enhancing productivity.
For more information or to book a FREE automation audit, contact L-A-C Logistics Automation: tel: 0115 975 3300, email: sales@lacgroup.co.uk or visit: www.lacconveyors.co.uk
Comments are closed.