Warehouse management has evolved significantly over the years. The industry is rapidly moving towards what is being labeled “Warehouse 4.0”, driven by the latest advancements in software automation and robotics.
Two robots from Boston Dynamics stand out among the rest – Stretch and Atlas. These robots have the potential to revolutionize the way warehouses are staffed and operated. They are capable of detecting boxes and containers using advanced vision systems and picking up packages which weigh up to 50 pounds.
For reference, Stretch is a box-moving robot designed to assist in almost any warehouse environment. It uses advanced vision systems to detect boxes and has a powerful gripper for heavier items, dramatically increasing its utility.
Atlas, on the other hand, is a humanoid robot created to perform a range of tasks, including those related to warehouse management. Its advanced sensing and control systems enable it to perform complex movements and manipulate objects. This makes it ideal for tasks that require a high degree of dexterity and precision. Atlas can be used to perform tasks such as palletizing and breaking down palletes, which are important functions in many warehouses.
By automating repetitive manual tasks, Stretch and Atlas can save businesses time and money, while improving accuracy and reliability. Businesses can optimize their operations and improve their bottom line by using robots for package pickup, loading, and unloading.
To fully realize the benefits of warehouse automation, proven way-finding systems such as RFID can guide these robots to the right package at the right place for maximum efficiency.
With RFID, robots can locate products by sensing proximity to a tagged object or scanning a barcode on the tag. RFID tags attached to packages can enable robots to quickly identify and pick up the right package, as well as ensure packages are placed in the correct locations. This reduces the time required for order fulfillment, allowing businesses to process more orders in less time. While robots automate the physical movements of goods, RFID systems automate the locating, counting, and security of physical inventory. Leveraging both technologies can yield maximum efficiency and benefits.
The use of RFID-assisted robots in warehouses can also improve safety. As robots become more prevalent in the workplace, there is a growing need to ensure that they operate safely alongside human workers. By utilizing RFID and sensor technologies, robots can navigate their way around the warehouse without colliding with other objects or workers, reducing the risk of accidents.
Goodbye barcode and manual picking and shipping; hello RFID and robotic automation! The future of warehouse management has arrived. It will be exciting to see how these technologies will integrate and continue to drive the Warehouse 4.0 revolution.
If you are working on a warehouse automation project and would like to understand how RFID can help accelerate your efforts, please contact us at info@rfidgs.com.