Automating warehouse equipment makes production cost-effective, less time-consuming, and safer for workers.
FREMONT, CA: Warehouse technology is adapting and evolving to meet the production demands of goods. Manufacturers are automating their production processes to meet demands and stay ahead of competitors. Automation reduces human errors. Automated equipment introduces fewer errors making production and maintenance efficient, safe, and faster with reduced labor costs.
Enhancing production systems in the warehouse makes successive processes in the supply chain, like logistics and transportation, more efficient. Upgrading equipment in the warehouse has the following benefits:
Cloud technology: Cloud-based software is integrated with warehouse management systems to accommodate changes in industry requirements. It provides workers with centralized data and analytics. Cloud systems help communication across departments. Warehouse operations in all industries can scale their services to meet the specific needs of each company without paying for extra services that may not be needed.
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): WMS keeps track of the movement of goods along the supply chain. It keeps track of inventory levels and goods that need restocking. Asset tracking systems (ATS) track inventory and its location. Warehouse execution systems (WES) manage the workflow of employees working in the warehouse.
Equipment has evolved from traditional machines like conveyor belts, forklifts, and pallet jacks to digital systems that streamline productivity and operations.
Automatic storage and retrieval systems (ASRS): ASRS is an automated storage system that manages inventory activities and optimizes space. ASRS removes the need for human operators and improves safety and efficiency. Warehouses utilize ASRS to store many products like pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food, and beverages. Automatic storage systems take over the process of manual shelving equipment but can store more products in lesser space.
Automatic guided vehicles (AGV): An AGV is an automated vehicle that transports goods in a warehouse. Workers use AGV to transport goods from one location to another through all types of paths. They can connect to other systems like WMS and ASRS and move autonomously on the shop floor. Officials prefer to use AGV in risky environments like mines, steel mines, and oil fields. AGV is programmed to be versatile in navigating different terrains.
