Robots boost efficiency

Economies around the world are investing in robotics to support industry and society. But government research and development (R&D) programmes are following different strategies. World Robotics R&D Programs 2025, published by the International Federation of Robotics, analyses official funding strategies in Asia, Europe and the Americas.

This article was first published in the April 1st 2025 issue of Warehouse & Logistics News, subscribe to the magazine by clicking here.

When sensors are used to detect contours, precision and attention to detail are what count. Leuze is launching two new laser scanner series that are perfectly suited for this. The devices of the ROD 300 series reliably detect contours even during fast production and logistics processes.

BS Handling Systems implemented a fully automated palletisation system for Mindful Chef, a leading food distribution company, that integrated seamlessly with the existing pick-to-light lines. The system featured robotic cells that could efficiently stack multiple box sizes with precision, eliminating the need for manual labour at the end of the lines. This resulted in a 20% increase in throughput, reducing bottlenecks and ensuring faster dispatch times.

One powerful example of real-time data visibility in action is the Lucas Management Console. This tool provides end-to-end visibility into warehouse operations, offering insights into exceptions, associate productivity, and workflow optimisation. By leveraging live data feeds, operators can dynamically reallocate workforce resources to maintain productivity levels, shifting labour to high-demand zones in response to order surges or bottlenecks.

Waytek, a leading distributor of automotive electrical components, has been facing an increasing demand for their goods across the manufacturing sector over the last year. To meet this high demand, Waytek deployed Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) from Zebra Technologies which enabled them to fulfil 1,000 orders per day compared to their previous limit of 800 orders. By replacing their conveyor system with AMRs, Waytek was able to fulfil more orders, reclaim 13% of their distribution centre space for product storage, extend the life of their facility by five years, and free their workers from certain manual tasks.

As more robots are deployed, warehouses are becoming more efficient and allowing workers to develop new skills.

George Simpson

Features EditorThe post Robots boost efficiency first appeared on Warehouse & Logistics News.