Challenges of warehouse and production logistics in the age of automation
The world of today’s logistics and production logistics operates in a strong symbiosis with the general economic situation. Heads of logistics and production are unfamiliar with the problems of selecting employees and retaining them over the long term. An important aspect of the operation of companies is also the need to ensure readiness for rapid scaling of business processes depending on the demand situation.
These elements mean that both warehouses and production must be supported in their work by information systems and automation elements, which make the efficiency of these areas independent of personnel fluctuations.
In this article, we show how to organize the ecosystem in SME enterprises to not only effectively respond to the challenges of today, but also be prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.
WMS AND MES systems as the core of a modern organization
Automating processes in the warehouse and production begins with the implementation of appropriate IT systems. WMS systems (Warehouse Management System) and MES (Manufacturing Execution System) digitize and optimize processes, and enable control of automation elements.
Solutions from the DigitIO line offered by HKK Group are characterized by comprehensiveness, openness to integration with external systems and high flexibility in the process of customization.
Automation of material handling - AMR Robotize robots
Warehouse and production automation is not a new phenomenon, but it is now gaining particular importance. Companies must not only increase efficiency, but also prepare for dynamic market changes and rising expectations in terms of customer service.
One of the simpler steps to achieve a quick return on investment (ROI) is to introduce autonomous mobile robots (AMR) into warehouse and manufacturing logistics processes. AMR robots from Robotize make it possible to transport pallets and carts in a fully automated manner, tailored to the specific requirements of companies.
In the process of picking, it is worth considering a model of cooperation between an operator and a robot – the picked products are placed on a pallet or on a picking cart, which are then moved to the repacking area in an automated manner, and from there sent to the recipient. Such a solution speeds up processes, relieves the workload of employees and increases ergonomics.
AMR in just-in-time deliveries
In manufacturing processes, AMR robots support the just-in-time (JIT) model by delivering components at the exact moment of demand. As a result:
The cost of service is reduced,
reduces the number of mistakes,
The production process is speeding up.
Mobile robots make the process of component delivery independent of operators, which improves process reliability and repeatability.
Integration of AMR with WMS and MES systems
HKK Group’s AMR robots interface with WMS and MES systems via an open API, which enables fast and seamless data transmission and reception. In addition, to adapt processes to the use of autonomous transportation, a configurable workflow system has been created to seamlessly adapt process flow without interfering with system code.
This makes it possible to adjust the process flow in such a way that autonomous robots are fully compatible with the work of manual operators. The result is cost reduction, time savings and improved quality of operations.
