robotics & technology

our approach to robotics

To be a trusted source in the field of Robotics & Technology, we feel you must have a solid understanding of the various technologies in the industry. The below categories encompass the categories you will find within the distribution industry, they are all of equal importance. In order to best serve you, we have invested time and money to understand when and where these various technologies will work. Utilizing our process, we will work with you to understand your situation, evaluate your expected growth, identify the right amount of flexibility, and ultimately design and integrate the right solution for your specific needs.

goods to person

We classify Goods To Person technology as a system that brings “eaches” to an operator to pick. 

Examples include:

  • Hai Robotics – ACR
  • Addverb – Zippy
  • Exotec – Skypod System 
  • Opex – Perfect Pick
  • Autostore
  • Fabric 
  • Attabotics

Person to Goods

Person to Goods is similar to the “follow me” methodology. Robots drive throughout an operation and an operator places units into the robotic application. 

Examples include:

  • 6 Rivers Systems
  • Locus
  • Fetch Robotics

AS/RS

AS/RS is short for Automated Storage and Retrieval System. In its simplest form, AS/RS technologies store and retrieve full cases, totes and/or pallets. Generally, they will deposit the stored unit onto outbound conveyor. 

Examples include:

  • Daifuku
  • SSI Schafer
  • Vanderlande
  • Gebhardt
  • Addverb – Quadron

shelf level

Shelf Level robotics indicate a robot is bringing forward an entire shelf to an operator. This allows the robot to be extremely efficient which ultimately, reduces cost. 

Examples include:

  • Geek+
  • Grey Orange

pick and place

Of all the technologies listed here, pick and place is generally known the least. However, pick and place robotics may soon be the most important piece of any robotic solution. While Goods to Person, Person to Goods, AS/RS, and Shelf Level technologies exist to increase and reduce the number of FTE’s, Pick and Place have a bolder vision, eliminate FTE’s. 

Examples include:

  • Plus One Robotics
  • Covariant
  • Berkshire Grey
  • Kindred
  • Dexterity

vision

Vision technology is the key to reducing exceptions and maximizing robotic adoption. Vision continues to improve and will be an important element in the ability to eliminate exceptions and drive technology into more areas of the supply chain. 

Examples include:

  • Cognex
  • SICK
  • Keyence
  • Vitronic
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