ROBOTICS IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN
Rethink Robotics ’ Sawyer Robots have been designed with an ability to adapt and learn by demonstration like humans , so line workers can simply ‘ show them how ’, as if training a new employee . Upon learning , Rethink Robotics ’ robots have the potential to work for an astounding 2,000 hours straight and can predict as well as perform both physical tasks such as kitting , packing , loading and unloading , machine tending alongside transitional tasks like PCB handling or ICT .
With regular software updates and their new ability to learn algorithms and locate logistical anomalies in the warehouse during the distribution process , it ’ s no wonder that more and more companies are following suit and using robotics and AI in the supply chain to ease financial pressures and meet consumer demands with innovation .
Robotics on the road Robotics aren ’ t just transforming the logistics industry in the warehouse , they ’ re now taking to the roads and even the air . Delivery methods and speed are fast becoming a key brand differentiator for retailers in the supply chain , and harnessing the rapidly developing advances in AI and robotics can only help reduce delivery time . We live in a world where , as consumers , we demand things now and robotics can help retailers meet this growing desire . Autonomous delivery robots and drones have been touted as the next step in achieving this .
In December 2016 , Amazon Prime , leading the way in supply chain and logistics innovation , trialled its Prime Air drone delivery service in the UK , meanwhile in the States Walmart announced in June that they were a mere 6-9 months from using drones to check warehouse inventories and for home delivery . However , although brands are experimenting with drones , whether they really ‘ take off ’ and become mainstream is uncertain . Drones are extremely restricted by expensive last mile delivery costs and flight regulations , typically transporting just one package per flight , before flying back to base to recharge . This can prove a costly process compared to delivery trucks multiple package delivery .
Although not likely to become commercially available for 5-10 years ,
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