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PACKAGING
destination within it. Able to handle anything from a single letter to a 2-metre square parcel weighing well over 30 kg, robots can be equipped to move a wide range of items that would be totally unsuitable for a conveyor system. With customised systems for gentle loading,
Furthermore, computer vision seamlessly integrates within the brownfield environment of existing processes too, relying on camera hardware and standalone software. Ultimately, computer vision speeds up the
processing of non-machinable items. Effective pre-sorting means manual intervention is not required, with items that were initially unsuitable for automation now accounted for in a fast, cost-effective process.
MAKING MOVES WITH NON- MACHINABLE ITEMS With pre-sorting complete, the next question is how to efficiently move non-machinable items to a desired destination? A manual approach is slow and places strain on employees, and by their very nature, these items are unsuitable for fixed conveyor systems. Robots are famed for enabling incredibly flexible sorting operations, but their versatility in terms of payload provides a unique opportunity to automate the handling and transport of traditionally non- machinable items. The latest robots are highly autonomous, using a combination of computer vision and ranging to safely navigate a pre-mapped area, picking up and dropping off items to any
transport and unloading (depending on what is being carried) robots can efficiently deliver non- machinable items to the next stage of the sorting process without human intervention. Robots are equally adept working with other installed infrastructure in small- or large-scale operations – allowing almost universal application. Navigation software and a talent for working in tight spaces means that robots carrying large items could even coexist next to others moving smaller ones, uniting sorting operations within a single, highly efficient and flexible ecosystem.
WORKING TOGETHER FOR DELIVERY Any sortation process is interlinked, and it is at the end of the process where computer vision and robotics can be further integrated to ensure reliable delivery of non-machinable items to customers. After pre-sorting and transport, non- machinable items need to be placed in chutes or storage areas ready for final dispatch. However,
due to their size and awkward shapes, more space needs to be allocated in chutes to accommodate them. Failure to do so risks blockages or items being damaged. However, by harnessing a computer vision
system to check available capacity in each chute, robots can be directed to unload at a destination where room is available, like a game of logistical Tetris. Blockages and damage can be avoided, while providing a healthy buffer for simplified loading into cages, pallets and delivery vehicles.
MAKING EVERYTHING MACHINABLE Currently, nearly every sorting operation has a percentage of non-machinable items which represents a reduction in profit. This will not be the case for much longer. The combination of computer vision and robotics promises to end the era of non-machinable items and consign the term to history. The ability of computer vision to accurately identify problematic goods and the inherent flexibility of robots will soon ensure that every item is machinable. Manual intervention will be a thing of the past, as these parcels and products will be accommodated in an efficient, automatic process that is tailored to their unique requirements. In some cases, the movement of smaller and larger items may be possible in the same areas. Tantalisingly, this can be achieved in
conjunction with existing operational infrastructure, as computer vision and robotics can be integrated with installed hardware and software rather than replacing it. Combined with the inherent flexibility and scalability of both solutions, the entire postal, e-commerce and logistics sector could soon see an end to the era where size and shape mattered.
Prime Vision
primevision.com
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