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anglumea.com – Logistics delivery is the process of transporting or shipping goods from one location to another, or from sender to recipient, according to a scheduled estimate. The faster the delivery time, the better the company’s image in the eyes of its customers.
That is why the entire logistics industry is constantly striving to provide the best possible service through faster deliveries, in an effort to retain loyal customers. One of the service improvements seen in the logistics industry today is the increasing use of various types of robots to simplify and speed up tasks. The advancement of the industry in utilizing robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) has been remarkably rapid.
A decade ago, the use of robots was still rare. Even when robots were employed, their safety and features were still relatively limited. Today, however, robots have proven to be highly beneficial in helping humans accomplish a wide variety of tasks.
One example is the use of robots in logistics, particularly in sorting goods more efficiently. The sorting process in logistics companies can be time-consuming—especially during peak shopping seasons. Sorting robots have emerged as a solution to speed up this process.
Sorting robots offer superior speed and accuracy while also reducing the risk of human error, ultimately making working hours more efficient.
So, what types of robots are currently being used in various logistics warehouses to make life easier for couriers and logistics administrators?
Types of Robots Used in the Logistics Industry
These are robots in the logistics industry:
Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV)
In logistics warehouses or shipping facilities, many companies deploy Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV), which help transport goods, materials, or inventory without human control.
AGVs are designed to replace forklifts and manual carts operated by warehouse staff, thereby reducing labor costs as these machines are equipped with advanced navigation systems.
These AGVs are often integrated with Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS)—computer-controlled devices that manage inventory, speeding up the retrieval and placement of goods.
Companies opt for AGVs because they offer flexibility and lower maintenance costs. Additionally, AGVs can easily be reprogrammed to adapt to changes in warehouse layouts or production lines.
2. Collaborative Robots (Co-bots)
Next, we have Collaborative Robots—semi-autonomous mobile robots designed to work alongside humans in shared work environments, ensuring safety for human workers.
In short, these robots can operate directly next to humans. For example, certain models can follow warehouse workers as they move through the warehouse, acting as mobile storage for items the workers collect.
How is this possible? Co-bots are equipped with sensors that allow them to distinguish between boxes and humans. These robots can also transport sorted items between departments, such as from the sorting team to another division.
3. Articulated Robotic Arms (ARA
Another type of robot used in the logistics industry is the Articulated Robotic Arm (ARA).
ARAs are mobile manipulators with multiple joints that allow them to lift and move objects within warehouses and distribution centers.
As the name suggests, these robotic arms can move in various directions, much like a human arm. Each joint can rotate on one or more axes, giving it flexible and wide-ranging movements.
Because these robotic arms can move, rotate, and lift, they are ideal for packaging and sorting goods. One of the most well-known examples of ARA technology is the KUKA robot, produced by one of the world’s leading robotics manufacturers.
A key advantage of ARA technology lies in its sophisticated sensors, which provide real-time feedback on item positioning, speed, and surrounding conditions. This enables the robot to adjust its movements dynamically for optimal performance.
4. Goods-to-Person Robots (G2P)
Lastly, we have Goods-to-Person (G2P) robots, which resemble AS/RS systems in some ways. These robots use artificial intelligence to transport goods directly to the operator or warehouse staff waiting at a designated station.
A major advantage of G2P robots is that they operate autonomously without the need for manual remote control. Their movement is governed by AI that has been pre-programmed by robotics experts.
Amazon is already utilizing G2P robots in their logistics warehouses to accelerate package handling between divisions—for instance, moving items from the sorting department to the shipping department for loading onto delivery trucks.
However, despite their many benefits, G2P robots also introduce a degree of dependency on the system. If a malfunction occurs, it can disrupt warehouse operations, particularly inventory management processes.
Conclusion
As the logistics industry continues to evolve, the integration of robotics and AI is no longer a luxury but a necessity to stay competitive. With various types of robots now streamlining operations, improving accuracy, and enhancing efficiency, businesses can deliver better service and meet growing customer expectations. It's exciting to see how this technology will further transform the future of logistics!