TECHNOLOGY & AI
AMRs work collaboratively with warehouse staff , whether that ’ s moving stock during picking , retrieving or replenishing . “ They are an easy , cheap first step into automation ,” says Harrison .
• Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems ( ASRS ). These are driven by computer-controlled systems , and deposit and retrieve loads from defined areas . An example of an ASRS is AutoStore , which , says Harrison , is popular across Europe and is beginning to be embraced by UK businesses “ because it meets the requirements of the modern ecommerce business ”. Increasingly , supply chain chiefs are looking to automation as a long-term answer to ongoing warehouse labour issues .
Safety and worker engagement two pluses of automation The benefits of automation are varied and often compelling . Safety and worker engagement are two of them , says Akash Gupta , co-founder and CTO of Grey Orange , an AI firm specialising in warehouse automation . It was founded in India but now has offices worldwide .
Gupta says that AI and robots can take on warehouse jobs that are less safe for people , as well as tasks that are repetitive and low-skilled .
Harrison agrees . “ A system like AutoStore has order-picking robots , meaning there ’ s no need for people to walk miles and miles every day , up and down aisles , retrieving the right products .”
Cutting out these and other timeconsuming and repetitive tasks allows employees “ to focus on more sophisticated , nuanced tasks that require human judgement and supervision ”, says Gupta . He adds this enriches people ’ s time at work , which in turn helps with staff retention .
Faulk also echoes these views . “ AMRs help workers become more productive , and improve ergonomics and workplace quality .”
He says his customers are positive about working with the company ’ s LocusBots “ because they make their job easier and more satisfying ”. He adds that one customer reported a 77 % reduction in workplace injuries after deploying LocusBots , as well as fewer no-shows .
Gupta also points out that another area in which AI can help is with upskilling staff . “ Instead of replacing workers , businesses can use AI and robots to train employees in the digital skills they need to prepare for the future ,” he says .
It seems the future of warehouses might well be built on man and machine , working in perfect harmony . supplychaindigital . com 113