FEATURE Automated warehousing


Delivering warehouse automation through wireless mesh networks


By Justin Warren, Sales Director at Rajant Corporation


O


nline shopping has become the preferred method for purchasing goods, which continues to stretch warehouse


resources. Warehouse management operators are already adopting new technologies to create a highly-effi cient environment. But, to achieve true autonomy that enhances productivity, speed and accuracy, a communications network capable of keeping operations moving 24/7, 365 days a year, is crucial. The network must provide consistent connectivity, regardless of obstructions and hurdles, with complete coverage and range. If devices, vehicles and people lose connectivity, even for a moment, this will aff ect effi ciency. Most operators are choosing a wireless network to connect their warehouses, for “last mile” connectivity in hard-to-reach areas. Overall, the right network must seamlessly deliver reliable and ubiquitous communications to keep operations moving and help warehouse management operators reap the rewards of warehouse automation.


Connectivity and access to data Dense infrastructure and radio frequency (RF) obstructions are always present in the industrial environment. For example, RF can’t go through metal corridors of interference. This is a considerable obstacle in warehouses, which are often fi lled to the brim with metal racks. Using 5G worsens the problem as it


28 March 2024 | Automation


uses millimeter-wave frequencies, which cover very short distances, and any minor obstruction can stop communications. In many cases the only way to get


around physical obstructions is by using Machine-to-Machine (M2M) broadband wireless communications that use minimal infrastructure. A network that can extend Wi-Fi using multiple frequencies to avoid interference and M2M to extend range will allow operators to support more applications, including handheld devices, RF identifi cation wands and Wi-Fi-based IIoT sensors. To enable automation and unlock the full potential of new technologies, warehouses need real-time data access and require a network to off er low latency and high bandwidth. By accessing and using the data being transferred between devices in real time, warehouses can make informed decisions about their operations, to maximise productivity gains. Continuous mobile connectivity from these networks can also be used to monitor the health of equipment and apply preventative maintenance measures when needed.


Maximising benefits An industrial wireless mesh network enables warehouses to become more autonomous as the network is self- optimising and intelligent. It can operate in tandem with other networks to extend coverage through various devices whilst overcoming the limitations of a fi xed infrastructure.


Using a web of intricate mesh network radio nodes on machines and personnel between metal racks to extend coverage means that each node becomes a piece of ‘mobile’ infrastructure and enables always- on connectivity wherever they roam across the warehouse fl oor. Eliminating dead spots, the network delivers fully mobile, rapidly scaleable and high-capacity wireless connectivity that maximises bandwidth to provide access to real-time data. A mesh network typically has a wider range than Wi-Fi access points, supporting more applications. Warehouse operators can have complete visibility of where radio nodes are placed through the mesh interface.


The warehouse of the future True M2M-enabling mesh networks are not traditional. They are uniquely designed for environments and applications where client devices and even the network are constantly changing and moving. A wireless mesh network that is fully mobile can empower robotics with continuous on-the-go connectivity for M2M communications. By taking advantage of the most optimal wireless mesh network, warehouse management operators can ensure their network connectivity is reliable and eff ective. With a network that can provide a proactive insight into the status and performance of personnel and machines throughout the warehouse, operators can minimise operational disruptions, downtime and other risks.


automationmagazine.co.uk


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