The Future of Logistics: AI and Robotics

With over 15 years of experience in automating warehouses, retail, and manufacturing, I've had the privilege to witness firsthand the transformative power of technology. As we look ahead, the integration of AI and robotics promises to revolutionize logistics, paving the way for fully autonomous operations.

The Dawn of Autonomous Warehouses

In the next 5-10 years, we will likely see the emergence of "dark warehouses" – completely unmanned facilities where autonomous systems handle every aspect of logistics. Unlike the 'dark kitchens' in the food industry, these warehouses will operate without human intervention, and will probably be literally dark to save on electricity, because robot's lidar car see in the dark.

Unmanned ships will dock at empty ports, where robots will unload cargo and autonomous forklifts will transport it to dark warehouses. This vision of the future hinges on advancements in AI chips, lidar, and camera technologies, which will transform traditional vehicles and equipment into fully autonomous entities.

Technological Advancements and Challenges

The realization of fully autonomous warehouses and ports depends on significant technological advancements. AI chips designed for autonomous operations, in combination with lidars and cameras, are critical. However, one of the biggest challenges we will face is maintenance.

Similar to how taxis and road vehicles are maintained, there will be large-scale facilities dedicated to storing and repairing unmanned equipment. Companies will have the option to rent this autonomous equipment as a service, streamlining operations and reducing costs.

Nvidia is at the forefront of this technological evolution. Their Isaac platform, which includes the Isaac SDK, Isaac Sim, and Jetson modules (such as Jetson Xavier NX and Jetson AGX Xavier), provides the essential tools and computing power needed for developing and deploying AI-powered robots. These AI chips and platforms enhance the capabilities of robots, enabling them to perform complex tasks autonomously.

Evolving Workforce and Skill Requirements

The rise of autonomous systems will undoubtedly impact the logistics workforce. There will be a decreased demand for unskilled labor, as most tasks will be automated.

However, due to the nature of the goods being shipped, there will still be points in the supply chain where manual handling is necessary. This shift will require a workforce skilled in managing and maintaining advanced technological systems, underscoring the need for continuous learning and adaptation.

There are several studies and reports that discuss the impact of automation and AI on the labor force in logistics, like McKinsey & Company (2017): "A Future That Works: Automation, Employment, and Productivity ".

Nvidia's partnerships with companies like BMW Group, KUKA, Serve Robotics, and ABB Robotics highlight the practical applications of their AI and robotics technology in real-world logistics and manufacturing scenarios.

Although there is no specific information on partnership between Amazon (one of the biggest employers) and Nvidia solely for logistics and e-commerce, Nvidia's technologies can support and enhance Amazon's logistics operations, particularly through third-party solutions and autonomous delivery systems.

Sustainability Goals

AI and robotics will play a crucial role in achieving sustainability goals within the logistics industry. Unmanned equipment saves weight, food, and fuel. Autonomous ships can cruise at lower, more efficient speeds for extended periods.

Unlike the production of wind turbines or nuclear plants, the manufacturing of AI chips and the renovation of ships contribute minimally to carbon emissions. This makes the shift towards automation not only a technological advancement but also an environmentally responsible choice.

While the speed of intercontinental shipments is limited by fuel efficiency and may even slow down temporarily, the last mile delivery speed will see a significant increase. The potential for making the 15-minute delivery model profitable is on the horizon. Currently, the accuracy of logistics operations is hindered by choke points and peak throughput. Automation will reduce these choke points, leading to higher accuracy and more efficient operations.

Conclusion

The future of logistics is bright with the integration of AI and robotics. From fully autonomous warehouses to enhanced sustainability, the possibilities are endless. As we embrace these technological advancements, we must also prepare for the challenges and opportunities they bring, ensuring that the logistics industry continues to evolve and thrive in the years to come.

Serge Bazhenov is the CEO and Co-founder of Cleverence, with over 15 years of experience in automating warehouse, retail, and manufacturing processes, as well as developing mobile apps for business. His expertise provides a visionary outlook on the future of logistics.