What are the most common applications of automation in logistics?

The intricate task of sorting and scanning items according to a multitude of criteria such as destination, weight, size, and shape is paramount. However, this process often proves to be labor-intensive and susceptible to errors. Fortunately, through the integration of cutting-edge automation technologies such as robots, sensors, cameras, barcodes, and sophisticated software solutions, these challenges can be effectively mitigated. From an automation engineer's standpoint, the implementation of automated sortation systems within warehouses emerges as a pivotal solution.

Escaneo de códigos de barras: El escaneo de códigos de barras es una de las formas más comunes de identificación de productos en la logística. Los dispositivos de escaneo, como lectores de códigos de barras manuales o integrados en equipos de manipulación de materiales, se utilizan para leer códigos de barras en productos, etiquetas de envío o documentos, lo que permite un seguimiento preciso y una gestión eficiente del inventario.

One of the most fundamental and crucial tasks in logistics is sorting and scanning items based on destination, weight, size, shape, and other criteria. This can be a time-consuming, error-prone, and labor-intensive process, especially when dealing with large volumes of parcels, packages, and pallets. Automation can help streamline this process by employing robots, sensors, cameras, barcodes, and software to identify, classify, and route items to the correct conveyors, containers, or trucks. For instance, some warehouses utilize automated sorting systems (AS/RS) capable of sorting up to 20,000 items per hour or robotic arms that can precisely and swiftly pick and place items.

Automation is frequently used for sorting and scanning items in logistics operations, such as warehouses and distribution centers. Automated systems can quickly sort incoming shipments based on destination, size, or other criteria, improving efficiency and accuracy.

Commissioning and packaging are among the most common tasks in logistics. It involves locating, picking, and packing items for shipment, which can be complex and time-consuming, especially with diverse inventories and fluctuating demand. Automation plays a crucial role in streamlining this process, utilizing robots, carts, shelves, and software to locate items, retrieve them, and transport them to packing stations. For instance, some warehouses employ Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS) with vertical shelves and robot cranes or Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) that navigate the warehouse floor to bring items to workers.

Automation streamlines the picking and packing process by utilizing robotic arms, conveyor systems, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs). These systems can efficiently pick items from shelves, pack them into containers, and prepare them for shipping.

Sistemas de Picking por Luz: En estos sistemas, las luces LED indican a los trabajadores la ubicación y la cantidad de productos que deben recoger. Las luces se encienden en los estantes o contenedores donde se encuentran los productos, guiando a los trabajadores de manera eficiente a través del almacén. Ejemplo: El sistema de picking por luz de OrderWise ofrece una forma rápida y precisa de recoger pedidos en almacenes.

There are few approaches to automate loading and unloading: 1. Specialised mechanism which unload whole truck at once. In most cases it need special arrangement of palletes on truck. 2. AGVs AGVs can unload trucks antonomously. It is most versatile but slowest solution 3. Specialised mechanism which unload pallete by pallete Similiar to point 1 but it can unload each pallete separately so it doesn't need special pallete arrangement on truck Second concern is moving palletes around. Good space arrangement with conveyors will boost the whole process.

One of the most common tasks in logistics is loading and unloading items from trucks, trailers, containers, or airplanes. This can be a physically demanding and risky process, especially when dealing with heavy, bulky, or fragile items. Automation can help reduce manual labor and improve the safety and speed of this process by employing robots, forklifts, palletizers, and software for lifting, stacking, and arranging items on loading docks or platforms. For instance, some warehouses utilize automated guided vehicles (AGVs) that follow predefined routes and can transport items to and from loading areas, or robotic palletizing systems capable of building and securing pallets of varying shapes and sizes.

Automated loading and unloading systems, including conveyor belts, robotic palletizers, and automated cranes, are commonly used in logistics to handle the movement of goods between trucks, warehouses, and distribution centers. These systems reduce manual labor and improve efficiency.

The most common applications of automation in logistics include tracking and monitoring systems. These systems utilize technologies such as RFID, GPS, and barcode scanners to track the movement and location of goods throughout the supply chain. They provide real-time visibility into inventory levels, shipment status, and delivery schedules, enabling efficient inventory management, accurate order fulfillment, and timely delivery. Additionally, automated tracking and monitoring systems improve transparency, reduce errors, and enhance overall operational efficiency in logistics operations.

Automation enables real-time tracking and monitoring of inventory, shipments, and vehicles throughout the supply chain. Technologies such as RFID, GPS, and sensors provide visibility into the location, status, and condition of goods, facilitating better decision-making and improving customer service.

Estos sistemas utilizan dispositivos GPS instalados en vehículos de transporte para rastrear su ubicación en tiempo real. Los datos de ubicación se transmiten a través de redes celulares o satelitales a una plataforma de software que permite a los operadores logísticos monitorear y gestionar la flota de vehículos.

En definitivo la tecnología cada vez es más amable y fácil de usar, sin embargo la real adopción de una simple herramienta de monitoreo y reporte de entregas , en la que el usuario necesita pulsar oportunamente la información para que todo el algoritmo funcione adecuadamente y a tiempo real , aún es tremendamente complicado . Yo llegué con incentivos, seguimiento y todo un equipo de gestión detrás de un conglomerado de 200 operadores de delivery , solo a tener un 85% de exactitud de datos y un 80% de oportunidad en el input a mi sistema de tracking y entrega de pedidos en la última milla . Esto sigue siendo tremendamente bajo y deja casi un 35% de gap que es que 1 de cada tres entregas , o bien le faltaban datos precisos o fuera de tiempo