The Transformational Power of Robotics, Automation and Digitalization in Warehousing
Robotics, automation and the rising importance of data analytics are driving substantial change in the logistics and industrial sector. Integrating these innovative technologies into warehouse operations can unlock numerous benefits for organizations, including cost savings, real-time asset tracking and management, improved space utilization, streamlined processes through automation, greater resilience, and a stronger competitive edge.
The global logistics robot market, valued at just over $7 billion in 2022, is projected to grow to $21 billion by 2029. Due to this rapid growth, a greater level of performance is expected from warehouse floors and infrastructure, and those operating in the space need to start making preparations now to stay ahead of the curve. McKinsey predicts that by 2027, automation will account for a quarter of industrial investments. This is daunting for some who may be uncertain of where to begin, especially as one of the top barriers to adoption—aside from the cost implications of robotics and automation—is a lack of knowledge and experience, as stated by over 60% of respondents.
Therefore, it is worthwhile making a tailored and strategic plan, rather than rushing to introduce a wide range of technologies simultaneously. Accurate surveying and floor flatness, for instance, are vital considerations for optimizing the performance of robotic systems. This is particularly true for freely moving AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots), which often require tens of thousands of fiducial coordinates. In such cases, facilitating the effective integration of cutting-edge robotics and automated technology in warehousing distribution and fulfilment facilities should involve the application of high-precision 3D laser scanning, together with innovative robotic layout solutions, for optimum precision. This enables the entire floor surface area to be measured and visualized, and any irregularities to be identified fast, whereas more traditional methods may miss certain sections.
For those seeking to harness the full power of warehousing robotics, automation, and other digital solutions, our recommendation is to go beyond simply meeting technical specifications such as TR34, and to focus on addressing their organizations’ unique constraints, goals, and needs. Any successful implementation strategy must be tailored for each company, location and warehouse space, rather than employing a cookie-cutter approach.
Harnessing Data and Digital Realities
Digital twins, or “digital realities,” can further drive operational performance improvements, by providing warehouse owners and operators with dynamic, interactive 3D virtual models of facilities that offer significant advantages over traditional static floor plans. This approach can speed up the installation of crucial equipment and support planning, increase operational efficiencies by 20-25%, undertake extensive scenario analysis digitally without disrupting real-life operations, optimize layout design and improve resource allocation through in-depth insights into space utilization, detect anomalies, and predict equipment maintenance needs.
In the case of larger organizations, gaining full visibility and intelligence of their entire asset portfolio in one place can inform business critical decision-making quickly and remotely, supporting scalability and expansion. Enabling continuous, data-backed improvement, making use of digital twin technologies ultimately helps companies mitigate risks and adapt to a rapidly shifting industry.
Digital representations can also serve as the basis for effective Environmental Impact Assessments, highlighting the energy consumption and carbon emission implications of warehouse operations. Other sustainability benefits include reduced travel for personnel, better space utilization (and therefore minimized waste), and the ability to pinpoint any necessary environmental improvements.
Offering a strong and versatile tool for optimizing logistics and industrial operations, impactful digital realities—like robotics and automation—rely on comprehensive and accurate geospatial data. When looking to boost ongoing operations, organizations need to first translate their existing building data into a digital environment. This presents a considerable challenge, requiring a meticulous approach with no room for error. The use of kinematic (mobile) scanning technologies, equipped with laser sensors and cameras to capture detailed 3D data of internal spaces, can help overcome the difficulties involved in capturing the most up-to-date data in a more cost-effective way that is also considerably faster than terrestrial scanning, with the ability to re-measure where necessary. Embedded metadata can then be tagged to equipment and locations, further empowering organizations with the full scope of information required for peak performance.
Looking ahead to the future of warehousing, momentum with robotics, automation and digitalization will continue, resulting in higher retrofitting activity as occupiers digitize and automate their operations to keep up with demand. It will be even more crucial for organizations to tap into the full value of their data, to benefit from the power of these next-generation technologies. With the right approach, the potential for transformation and growth in warehousing remains vast.
