Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are a type of technology that is swiftly growing in popularity in warehouses and distribution centers around the world. This kind of robot is engineered to move around a warehouse or distribution center on its own, without the need for worker supervision. They have sensors and software installed that let them traverse the facility, track down and retrieve items, and take them to their destination.

Autonomous Mobile Robot Benefits

A great advantage to implementing AMRs within distribution centers is the enhanced productivity they can provide. Through automating jobs such as material transportation and handling, AMRs are able to significantly reduce the time and effort needed to fulfill these tasks. This can mean quicker order processing and delivery times, in addition to decreased labor costs.

A second benefit to AMRs lies in their tireless hours of operation, without any requirement for breaks or rest. This allows material handling facilities to elevate their efficiency and productivity, due to the fact that the robots can operate all the time without becoming tired.

AMRs can also improve safety in warehouses, because they have installed programming and sensors that allow them to avoid crashes with different items and people. This can limit the risk of injuries and accidents in the facility, which is notably important in operations where heavy lifting and other physically demanding jobs are common.

Types Of AMRs

There are a selection of unique types of AMRs that can be obtained on the market, respectively created for distinct jobs and facilities. A few of the most common implementations of AMRs include:

• Order Picking AMRs: AMRs are available in an extensive variety of configurations that attempt to reduce picking-related retrieval time. Utilizing AMRs to move goods to the picker removes travel time for hourly staff members and can be significant when it comes to cost and efficiency.
• Sortation AMRs: Sortation can benefit greatly from implementing autonomous mobile robots. Varying kinds of AMRs include a range of handling tools. It’s possible to outfit them with everything from tilt trays to cross belt systems, and can be helpful in returns handling, e-com fulfillment, and high speed parcel sortation.
• Inventory AMRs: Modern order fulfillment depends on having precise, transparent inventory visibility—being aware of whereabouts the product is within your warehouse, distribution center, and overall supply chain. However, organizing inventory transportation and reconciliation can be challenging and time-intensive for very large and complex operations. AMRs that are integrated directly with an inventory system can drastically limit the time and expenses needed to keep at maximum efficiency and order accuracy.

AMR Implementation

Implementing AMRs in a warehouse demands careful consideration and forethought. It is essential to carefully assess the tasks that that will be completed by the robots, and ensure that they are equipped with the correct software and sensors to perform these tasks efficiently. It is also important to plan for the configuration of the warehouse or distribution center and the possible effect on separate processes and systems, such as the storage and material handling systems.

A possible difficulty of configuring AMRs is the need for incorporation them with existing processes and systems. AMRs often must be integrated with warehouse management systems (WMS) and other computer systems in order to work well. This sometimes takes significant labor and materials, and could necessitate the development of custom software or connection with third-party systems.

An additional obstacle is the requirement for continual support and maintenance. AMRs need regular software updates and maintenance in order to keep running properly, and it is important to make a plan to make sure that these tasks are completed in a timely and successful fashion.

Talk To A Warehouse Automation Expert

Overall, autonomous mobile robots can contribute substantial benefits to material handling facilities, such as increased efficiency, productivity, and safety. If you’d like to learn more about laying out and setting up an AMR program, contact a warehouse automation professional at Raymond West now.

Raymond West's Ontario, California facility serves parts of Los Angeles County and San Bernardino County, including Ontario, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Upland, La Verne, San Dimas, Covina, West Covina, Pomona, Diamond Bar, Rowland Heights, Chino, Norco, Eastvale, Corona, Jurupa Valley, San Bernardino, Rialto and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Ontario California Material Handling Equipment Supplier

4602 E Brickell St
Ontario, CA 91761
(909) 930-9399