Robots have been used in warehouses for decades, with automation helping to increase efficiency in a variety of areas. But in recent years, “cobots” have become more widely used in warehouses, providing an even greater level of efficiency.

So what are cobots, and how are they used in warehouses? Cobots, also known as collaborative robots, are a type of robot designed to work alongside humans. They are designed to be flexible, safe and agile, allowing them to perform repetitive tasks with precision and accuracy.

Unlike traditional robots, cobots are capable of working closely with humans, interacting with them and responding to feedback. This allows for efficient and accurate collaboration, which can be invaluable in a warehouse setting.

In this blog post, we'll explore the different ways cobots are used in warehouses, and discuss the benefits they bring to the warehouse environment. From improved safety and increased productivity to increased accuracy and lower costs, cobots are becoming an increasingly important part of warehouse operations.

Cobots Enhance Human Labor Instead Of Replacing It

When workers hear about robotics, many leap to the conclusion that their own jobs will be replaced by machines. In reality, cobots are used primarily to take on boring, repetitive, dangerous or otherwise arduous tasks that humans find unpleasant. 

For example, one area where cobots shine is “pick and place” applications. For humans, these can be extremely tedious tasks that require them to pick up something and put it in another place (e.g. moving items from a conveyor belt, sorting items and placing them in different bins, etc). Cobots can take on these jobs and do them at a far faster pace than humans, increasing efficiency and employee morale. 

Cobots can also be used for tasks like packaging. As a human, imagine having a job where all you do is assemble cardboard boxes for 8 hours per day. These types of jobs are unpleasant for humans but are an area where cobots thrive. In addition to box assembly, cobots can also load pallets, stretch wrap them, and do other repetitive jobs that are less than ideal for humans.

Cobots Can Greatly Increase Productivity

Cobots never tire, they don’t get bored and inattentive, and don’t make mistakes. They can do jobs much faster than humans, and can lift and maneuver heavy objects with ease and they don’t get injured. 

While they are somewhat costly to implement, the return on investment for cobots can be rapid. As labor shortages continue and costs rise, more and more cobots will appear in warehouses in the coming years. 

Learn More About Cobots

Do cobots have a place in your warehouse?  Talk to a warehouse automation expert at Raymond West today to learn more.