Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are a type of technology that is rapidly gaining popularity in warehouses around the world. This kind of robot is designed to navigate a warehouse or distribution center alone, without necessitating employee assistance. They come equipped with sensors and software that enable them to traverse the premises, find and pick up items, and transport them to their destination.

Autonomous Mobile Robot Benefits

One of the greatest advantages to using AMRs within warehouses is the increased capability they are able to provide. By automating jobs such as material transportation and handling, AMRs can considerably limit the time and labor necessary to complete such jobs. This results in better order processing and distribution times, and lesser labor fees.

An additional benefit of AMRs results from their ability to run at all hours, without the necessity for breaks or rest. This enables material handling facilities to elevate their efficiency and productivity, due to the fact that the AMRs can work around the clock without becoming tired.

AMRs can also improve safety in warehouses and distribution centers, as they have installed software and sensors that enable them to prevent collisions with other items and people. This can limit the risk of accidents and injuries in the facility, which is especially essential in operations where heavy lifting and other physically demanding jobs are common.

Types Of AMRs

There are a few assorted sorts of AMRs available for sale, each engineered for distinct jobs and facilities. Some of the most common implementations of AMRs encompass:

• Order Picking AMRs: AMRs come in an extensive diversity of configurations that strive to limit picking-related retrieval time. Having AMRs bring wares to the picker gets rid of travel time for hourly workers and can be substantial in terms of efficiency and cost.
• Sortation AMRs: Sortation can benefit significantly from the use of autonomous mobile robots. Different sorts of AMRs include a variety of handling tools. They can be equipped with anything from cross belt systems to tilt trays, and can be useful in e-com fulfillment, high speed parcel sortation, and returns handling.
• Inventory AMRs: Currently order fulfillment relies on having accurate, transparent inventory visibility—knowing whereabouts the item is within the warehouse, distribution center, and overall supply chain. However, arranging inventory movement and reconciliation can be difficult and time-consuming for especially large and complicated operations. AMRs that are integrated directly with an inventory database can drastically limit the time and expenses necessary to keep at maximum efficiency and order accuracy.

AMR Implementation

Configuring AMRs in a warehouse or distribution center necessitates diligent planning and consideration. It is critical to attentively assess the duties that that robots will have to perform, and ensure that they are configured with the necessary sensors and software to perform these tasks efficiently. It is also important to consider the floorplan of the warehouse and the possible influence on different processes and systems, like the material handling and storage systems.

A challenge of implementing AMRs is consolidating them with existing systems and processes. AMRs frequently should be integrated with warehouse management systems (WMS) and other software systems in order to run effectively. This sometimes requires substantial labor and resources, and may require the creation of custom software or connection with third-party systems.

An additional difficulty is the need for continual maintenance and support. AMRs need consistent software updates and maintenance in order to continue operating effectively, and it is necessary to create a plan to guarantee that these caretaking is finished in a timely and effective manner.

Talk To A Warehouse Automation Expert

Altogether, autonomous mobile robots can bring considerable benefits to material handling facilities, including increased productivity, safety, and efficiency. If you’d like to learn more about designing and implementing an AMR program, contact a warehouse automation professional at Raymond West right away.

Raymond's Reno / Sparks service operation includes all of Western Nevada, including Reno, Sparks, Carson City, Minden, Gardnerville, Incline Village, Virginia City, Indian Hills, Johnson Lane, Fernley, Fallon, Dayton, Silver Springs, Spanish Springs, Yerington, Genoa and Zephyr Cove.

Raymond West | Reno / Sparks Material Handling Equipment Supplier

975 Terminal Way
Reno, NV 89502
(775) 356-8383