Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are a type of technology that is very quickly increasing in popularity within warehouses worldwide. AMRs are made to navigate a material handling facility independently, without requiring human supervision. They include software and sensors that let them move about the storage location, track down and pick up wares, and transport them to their destination.

Autonomous Mobile Robot Benefits

One of the primary benefits to using AMRs inside distribution centers is the heightened productivity they are able to contribute. By automating duties such as material handling and transportation, AMRs can significantly reduce the time and effort necessary to fulfill these jobs. This can result in better order processing and transport times, in addition to lesser labor fees.

A second advantage to AMRs lies in their constant hours of operation, without the necessity for rest or breaks. This allows material handling facilities to elevate their efficiency and throughput, as the AMRs can work constantly without experiencing fatigue.

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

Types Of AMRs

There are several unique kinds of AMRs currently on the market, each engineered for particular tasks and workspaces. A few customary applications of AMRs include:

• Order Picking AMRs: AMRs can be found in a wide collection of styles that are intended to reduce picking-related travel time. Using AMRs to take goods to the picker removes travel time for hourly employees and can be substantial in terms of efficiency and cost.
• Sortation AMRs: Sortation can benefit significantly from implementing autonomous mobile robots. Assorted kinds of AMRs have an assortment of handling equipment. They can be equipped with everything 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 is dependant on having accurate, transparent inventory visibility—being aware of whereabouts the product is inside the warehouse, distribution center, and overall supply chain. However, coordinating inventory movement and reconciliation can be demanding and time-consuming for especially large and elaborate operations. AMRs that are directly integrated with an inventory database can exceptionally lessen the time and money required to maintain maximum productivity and order precision.

AMR Implementation

Implementing AMRs in a material handling facility demands diligent planning and consideration. It is important to attentively assess the jobs that that will be done by the AMRs, and make sure that they are configured with the correct sensors and software to address these tasks efficiently. It is likewise important to consider the floorplan of the warehouse and the possible impact on other processes and systems, such as the material handling and storage systems.

One of the obstacles of configuring AMRs is the need for consolidation them with existing processes and systems. AMRs usually must be connected to warehouse management systems (WMS) and other computer systems in order to work properly. This can take considerable time and resources, and may necessitate the development of unique software or incorporation with third-party systems.

Another challenge is the necessity for ongoing maintenance and support. AMRs require consistent software updates and maintenance in order to go on functioning correctly, and it is necessary to create a plan to ensure that such tasks are completed in a punctual and effective manner.

Talk To A Warehouse Automation Expert

Collectively, autonomous mobile robots can add considerable up sides to material handling facilities, such as elevated efficiency, productivity, and safety. To inquire about configuring and setting up an AMR project, contact a warehouse automation expert at Raymond West right away.

Raymond West's Calexico facility serves Imperial County and Yuma County, Including Calexico, Brawley, El Centro, San Luis, Yuma and surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Calexico Material Handling Equipment Supplier

285 Rood Rd
Calexico, CA 92231
(760) 768-8700