Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are a vein of technology that is swiftly growing in popularity inside warehouses throughout the world. AMRs are designed to move around a material handling facility independently, without necessitating employee assistance. They include sensors and software that let them move about the premises, locate and grab items, and transport them to their destination.

Autonomous Mobile Robot Benefits

One of the primary benefits to utilizing AMRs inside distribution centers is the increased capability they are able to contribute. Through automating tasks such as material transportation and handling, AMRs will drastically limit the time and effort necessary to finish such jobs. This can lead to better order processing and distribution times, in addition to decreased labor prices.

Another benefit to AMRs lies in their constant hours of operation, without any requirement for breaks or rest. This allows distribution centers to increase their throughput and efficiency, as the AMRs can work around the clock without experiencing tiredness.

AMRs can also increase safety in warehouses and distribution centers, because they are kitted out with software and sensors enabling them to avoid collisions with different people and objects. This can lessen the possibility of accidents and injuries in the workplace, which is notably important in operations that include heavy lifting and other physically demanding tasks.

Types Of AMRs

There are a selection of different kinds of AMRs available for sale, respectively created for specific facilities and jobs. Several of the most common implementations of AMRs include:

• Order Picking AMRs: AMRs are available in an extensive collection of configurations that strive to cut down on picking-related travel time. Utilizing AMRs to bring items to the picker gets rid of travel time for hourly employees and can be transformative in terms of efficiency and cost.
• Sortation AMRs: Sortation can benefit significantly from the use of autonomous mobile robots. Varying kinds of AMRs possess a range of handling tools. It’s feasible to outfit them with anything from tilt trays to cross belt systems, and can be helpful in returns handling, e-com fulfillment, and high speed parcel sortation.
• Inventory AMRs: Contemporary order fulfillment is dependant on having accurate, transparent inventory visibility—being aware of whereabouts the item is inside the warehouse, distribution center, and entire supply chain. However, arranging inventory movement and reconciliation can be difficult and time-intensive for particularly large and complicated operations. AMRs that are directly integrated with an inventory system can drastically reduce the time and money necessary to maintain maximum effectiveness and order accuracy.

AMR Implementation

Implementing AMRs in a warehouse necessitates careful consideration and forethought. It is critical to attentively examine the tasks that that AMRs will need to do, and ensure that they are configured with the required sensors and software to handle these duties properly. It is likewise essential to plan for the floorplan of the warehouse or distribution center and the possible effect on separate systems and processes, such as the storage and material handling systems.

A possible difficulty of implementing AMRs is consolidating them with existing systems and processes. AMRs often need to be linked to warehouse management systems (WMS) and other computer systems in order to work well. This can take considerable time and resources, and might necessitate the implementation of custom software or incorporation with third-party systems.

An additional difficulty is the need for recurring support and maintenance. AMRs need frequent software updates and maintenance in order to continue operating effectively, and it is essential to have a plan in place to make sure that such caretaking is done in a punctual and careful fashion.

Talk To A Warehouse Automation Expert

Altogether, autonomous mobile robots can bring considerable features to warehouses and distribution centers, such as elevated safety, efficiency, and productivity. To inquire about configuring and implementing an AMR program, contact a warehouse automation expert at Raymond West now.

Raymond West's Los Angeles facility serves much of Los Angeles County, including Santa Fe Springs, Whittier, La Mirada, Downey, Pico Rivera, Los Angeles, Montebello, El Monte, Rosemead, Alhambra, South Gate, Lynwood, Compton, Westmont, Gardena, Torrance, Carson, San Pedro, La Habra, City of Industry, Walnut, Inglewood, Hawthorne and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Los Angeles Material Handling Equipment Supplier

9939 Norwalk Blvd
Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670
(562) 944-8067