Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are a kind of technology that is rapidly growing in popularity in material handling facilities all over the world. These robots are engineered to navigate a material handling facility on its own, without requiring human assistance. They are equipped with software and sensors that let them traverse the storage location, locate and pick up wares, and carry them to their destination.

Autonomous Mobile Robot Benefits

A primary benefit of using AMRs inside warehouses is the increased productivity they can provide. Through automating tasks like material handling and transportation, AMRs can significantly limit the time and labor necessary to fulfill such jobs. This can lead to better order processing and transport times, as well as reduced labor prices.

An additional benefit of AMRs results from their ability to run at all hours, without a necessity for rest or breaks. This allows material handling facilities to elevate their productivity and throughput, as the AMRs can operate continually without experiencing fatigue.

AMRs also can improve safety in storage facilities, because they come kitted out with sensors and software that allow them to avoid impacts with different items and people. This can lessen the possibility of accidents and injuries in the workplace, which is especially critical in places that include heavy lifting and other physically demanding tasks.

Types Of AMRs

There are a few unique sorts of AMRs available on the market, respectively engineered for distinct workspaces and jobs. A few of the most common implementations of AMRs include:

• Order Picking AMRs: AMRs can be found in a wide collection of designs that strive to reduce picking-related travel time. Utilizing AMRs to bring items to the picker eliminates travel time for hourly employees and can be transformative in terms of efficiency and cost.
• Sortation AMRs: Sortation can benefit substantially from using autonomous mobile robots. Varying kinds of AMRs include a variety of handling tools. It’s possible to equip them with everything from tilt trays to cross belt systems, and can be used in e-com fulfillment, high speed parcel sortation, and returns handling.
• Inventory AMRs: Currently order fulfillment is dependant on having accurate, transparent inventory visibility—understanding whereabouts the product is in the warehouse, distribution center, and entire supply chain. However, arranging inventory transportation and reconciliation can be demanding and time-intensive for particularly large and complex operations. AMRs that are integrated directly with an inventory structure can significantly lessen the time and expenses necessary to keep at maximum productivity and order precision.

AMR Implementation

Configuring AMRs in a material handling facility demands careful consideration and forethought. It is important to closely examine the jobs that that AMRs will have to do, and ensure that they are equipped with the correct software and sensors to perform these duties efficiently. It is likewise essential to account for the configuration of the warehouse and the potential effect on other processes and systems, like the material handling and storage systems.

One of the challenges of implementing AMRs is integrating them with current systems and processes. AMRs frequently need to be integrated with warehouse management systems (WMS) and other computer systems in order to run effectively. This can need considerable time and materials, and might require the implementation of custom software or connection with third-party systems.

One more challenge is the necessity for recurring support and maintenance. AMRs require regular maintenance and software updates in order to go on operating effectively, and it is important to develop a plan to make sure that these caretaking is completed in a punctual and effective way.

Talk To A Warehouse Automation Expert

Altogether, autonomous mobile robots are able to add significant benefits to material handling facilities, including increased efficiency, productivity, and safety. If you’d like to ask about laying out and setting up an AMR program, contact a warehouse automation representative at Raymond West right away.

Raymond West's Fremont facility serves all of the Bay Area, including San Francisco, Oakland, San Leandro, Hayward, Union City, Fremont, San Jose, Santa Clara, Mountain View, Palo Alto, Redwood City, San Mateo, South San Francisco, Richmond, Vallejo, Concord, Pleasanton, Livermore and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | San Francisco Bay Area Material Handling Equipment Supplier

41400 Boyce Rd
Fremont, CA 94538
(800) 675-2500