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CONVEYORS
APPLYING THE BENEFITS OF ROBOTS With this functionality, robots offer multiple benefits over static conveyors. Operational expansion can be achieved by simply introducing new units to the fleet. Therefore, periods of rapid growth or peak demand are more easily accommodated than with conveyors. Furthermore, if new picking or sorting destinations need to be added, robots can be quickly programmed to drive to them. Robots can handle growth and increased complexity simultaneously. While they still need room to manoeuvre, robots
require nowhere near as much space as conveyors. This means that they are highly suited
for sorting operations in smaller facilities. Additionally, unlike conveyors, robots can be easily relocated. With these inherent qualities, they are ideal for localised or temporary facilities set up close to the point of delivery, allowing businesses to optimise last mile logistics. In terms of safety, robots are preferable too.
Single robots or the entire fleet can be deactivated at the touch of a button, and if an emergency should occur, personnel do not have large conveyors blocking potential escape routes. Robots are also more robust than conveyors.
A single faulty robot can easily be replaced, or other units rerouted to cover for the shortfall, without halting the entire sorting operation.
Maintenance can be carried out and the robot returned to service without any service interruptions, saving time and cost. Ultimately, choosing robots over conveyors makes an operation more resilient. For sortation where high volume and
complexity are both factors – robots can easily work together with conveyors, combining the benefits of each to overcome traditional pain points in the sorting process. More than overcoming its challenges, robots integrate with fixed infrastructure too.
WAREHOUSES CHOOSE ADOPTION Warehouse operators are now recognising the benefits of robots. In a 2022 study, 23 per cent of businesses surveyed said that they were currently using robots in their facilities, while a further 21 per cent planned to within the next three years. Clearly, robots will continue to play an increasing role in future sorting operations. Prime Vision not only provides customised
robots for warehouse logistics, but the system design and training to smoothen adoption for e- commerce companies and postal services. Working on a case-by-case basis, the business creates environments where robots and employees can confidently and safely collaborate. Consequently, robots can become as much of an accepted part of the warehouse ecosystem as conveyors before them.
Prime Vision
primevision.com
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