Artificial Intelligence (AI), Autonomous Case Handling Robots (ACR) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR) with Hai Robotics, Geek+ and Körber

Transformation in warehouse logistics: Artificial intelligence and autonomous robotics as pioneers of the future

In a world characterized by ever-growing e-commerce, globalized supply chains, and the relentless drive for efficiency, warehouse logistics is facing a paradigm shift. Traditional, often manual and labor-intensive processes in warehouses and distribution centers are increasingly reaching their limits. Rising labor costs, skills shortages, and the pressure to ensure ever faster and more precise deliveries are forcing companies worldwide to seek innovative solutions. This is where artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous robotics come into play, establishing themselves as key technologies for the transformation of warehouse logistics.

Autonomous case handling robots (ACRs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are at the forefront of this development. They promise not only a significant increase in efficiency and productivity, but also greater flexibility, scalability, and resilience in warehouse operations. Companies like Hai Robotics and Geek+, in partnership with established intralogistics integrators such as Körber, are at the forefront of this technological revolution, offering innovative solutions that fundamentally change the way goods are stored, picked, and shipped.

Suitable for:

• Asia's robotics transformation: growth, alliances and the growing influence on logistics in Europe

Autonomous Case Handling Robots (ACR) from Hai Robotics: Redefining efficiency and storage density

Hai Robotics, founded in 2016, has quickly established itself as a pioneer in Autonomous Case Handling Robotics (ACR). With over 1,500 global patents in key areas such as positioning, robot control, and warehouse management, Hai Robotics has developed a technology that surpasses conventional warehouse solutions in many ways. Hai Robotics' ACR systems are designed to significantly increase the efficiency of warehouse operations while maximizing storage density.

Focus on increasing efficiency

One of the main advantages of Hai Robotics' ACR systems lies in the enormous increase in efficiency they enable. Compared to traditional, manual or semi-automated warehouses, ACR systems can increase warehouse operational efficiency three to four times. This is due to a number of factors:

Automation of repetitive tasks

ACRs take over repetitive and time-consuming tasks such as storing and retrieving containers and boxes, picking items, and transporting goods within the warehouse. This frees up human workers from monotonous activities, allowing them to be deployed for more complex and value-added tasks.

Optimized workflows

ACR systems operate according to optimized algorithms and routes that minimize downtime and accelerate material flow in the warehouse. They can operate around the clock without breaks or fatigue, resulting in continuous productivity.

High-performance workstations

The HAIPORT system from Hai Robotics is an example of a high-performance workstation capable of processing up to 900 boxes per hour. This high throughput rate enables companies to maintain smooth and efficient operations even during peak periods.

Maximum storage density through innovative space utilization

In addition to increased efficiency, ACR systems from Hai Robotics also offer a significant increase in storage density. Conventional warehouses often leave a lot of space unused, whether due to wide aisles for forklifts or inefficient racking systems. ACRs, on the other hand, can navigate narrow aisles and reach even hard-to-access areas within the warehouse. This can increase storage density by 80% to 400%.

Vertical storage

The HaiPick System 3 from Hai Robotics goes even further, achieving an ultra-high storage density of up to 50 containers per square meter. This is made possible by the robots' ability to store and retrieve containers in tall racking systems, thus maximizing vertical space utilization. The HAIPICK A42T robot features a unique telescopic lifting function that covers heights of up to 6.50 meters, allowing it to adapt to irregular storage heights.

Optimized shelving systems

ACR systems enable the use of racking systems specifically tailored to the needs of robots. These racks are often narrower and taller than conventional racks, resulting in more efficient use of available storage space.

Flexibility and scalability for dynamic requirements

Another key advantage of Hai Robotics' ACR systems is their flexibility and scalability. Unlike permanently installed automation systems, ACRs can be quickly and flexibly integrated into existing warehouse environments without requiring extensive structural modifications.

Easy integration

ACR systems can typically be installed and commissioned within a short time. This minimizes warehouse downtime and allows companies to quickly benefit from automation.

Adaptability to different container and carton sizes:

ACRs are capable of handling mixed picking of containers and cartons of varying sizes. This is particularly important for companies that carry a wide product range and require flexible storage solutions.

Scalability for a growing business

The systems are easily scalable and can be adapted to the company's growth. Additional robots and workstations can be added to increase warehouse capacity as demand rises. The robots can also automatically switch between different areas of operation to respond to changing requirements.

Innovative technology as a competitive advantage

Hai Robotics relies on advanced technologies to continuously improve the performance of its ACR systems. These include:

AI algorithms

AI algorithms play a central role in controlling the robots, optimizing route planning, and making decisions in complex situations. AI enables the robots to dynamically adapt to changes in the warehouse environment and continuously improve their performance.

Precise location determination

Accurate positioning is crucial for robot navigation within the warehouse and the precise handling of containers and boxes. Hai Robotics utilizes advanced sensors and localization technologies to ensure high accuracy and reliability.

Telescopic lifting function

The HAIPICK A42T robot is an example of innovative technology specifically designed for the demands of warehouse logistics. Its unique telescopic lifting function allows the robot to reach heights of up to 6.50 meters and adapt to irregular storage levels, further optimizing space utilization.

Rapid implementation and versatility for various industries

Hai Robotics' ACR systems are distinguished not only by their technological performance, but also by their rapid implementation and versatility. Companies can automate their warehouses with ACR systems in a very short time and benefit from their numerous advantages.

ACR solutions are used in a wide variety of industries, including:

3PL (Third-Party Logistics)

Logistics service providers benefit from the efficiency and flexibility of ACR systems to offer their customers tailor-made warehousing solutions.

Fashion

In the fashion industry, which is characterized by rapid collection changes and seasonal fluctuations, ACRs enable flexible and scalable warehousing.

E-commerce

For e-commerce companies that need to process large volumes of orders quickly and efficiently, ACRs are an ideal solution to meet the high demands.

electronics

In the electronics industry, which often stores small and sensitive components, ACRs offer precise and gentle handling of the goods.

energy

ACRs can also contribute to optimizing warehouse logistics in the energy sector, for example in the storage of spare parts for wind turbines or solar parks.

production

In production environments, ACRs can be used for material provision, storage of intermediate products, and picking of finished goods.

Pharmaceuticals

In the pharmaceutical industry, which must adhere to strict regulations and high quality standards, ACRs offer reliable and controlled storage of medicines and medical products.

Körber and Hai Robotics: A strategic partnership for global solutions

The strategic partnership between the international technology group Körber and Hai Robotics is an important milestone in the global distribution of ACR systems. Körber, as one of the leading integrators of automated intralogistics solutions, has recognized that Hai Robotics' ACR technology is an ideal complement to its solution portfolio.

Through this partnership, Körber can offer its customers worldwide access to Hai Robotics' innovative ACR systems and integrate them into comprehensive intralogistics solutions. This strengthens Körber's position as a technology-independent integrator, capable of consistently providing its customers with optimal and customized solutions, regardless of whether these are its own products or those of third-party suppliers.

The partnership addresses current challenges facing the logistics industry, such as rising costs, labor shortages, and increasingly demanding customer requirements. By combining Hai Robotics' ACR technology with Körber's expertise in intralogistics integration, flexible and efficient automation solutions are created that help companies overcome these challenges and strengthen their competitiveness.

Geek+ and Körber: Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR) for flexible and intelligent logistics

In addition to ACR systems, Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are playing an increasingly important role in modern warehouse logistics. Geek+, another leading robotics company, specializes in the development and implementation of AMR solutions. Geek+ has also entered into a strategic global partnership with Körber to provide companies worldwide with improved access to AMR technology.

Key points of the partnership Geek+ and Körber

The partnership between Geek+ and Körber is based on the pooling of expertise and complementary strengths:

Pooling of expertise

Geek+ contributes its extensive expertise in AMR technology and AI-supported solutions. Körber provides its long-standing know-how in the integration, consulting, and maintenance of robotics solutions. This combination enables the development of comprehensive and customized solutions for customer needs.

Technological advantages

The partnership focuses on the further development of functionalities in the areas of AI, robotics, software, and machine learning. The goal is to continuously increase the performance of AMR systems and to open up new areas of application.

Market reach

Through this partnership, Geek+ gains access to Körber's global customer base. This enables Geek+ to expand its international market presence and offer its AMR solutions to a wider audience. Körber, in turn, benefits from Geek+'s innovative AMR technology and can offer its customers an even more comprehensive portfolio of solutions.

Successes and impact of AMR technology

Geek+ has already achieved impressive success with the implementation of AMR systems:

Extensive implementations

Geek+ has successfully implemented approximately 10,000 AMR systems at over 300 companies worldwide. These figures demonstrate the maturity and practicality of Geek+'s AMR technology.

Increased productivity and improved accuracy

In specific use cases, productivity increases of over 100% and accuracy improvements of up to 99.99% have been recorded. AMRs enable companies to make their warehouse processes significantly more efficient and error-free.

Reduction of walking distances

The use of AMRs can reduce walking distances in the warehouse by up to 82%. This saves time and resources and improves working conditions for employees, who are relieved of physically demanding transport tasks.

Addressing current challenges

Geek+ and Körber's AMR technology addresses current challenges such as labor shortages, health risks, and unpredictable demand fluctuations, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. AMRs can help reduce reliance on human labor, support social distancing measures, and increase supply chain resilience.

Artificial intelligence (AI) as a driving force behind AMR solutions

Artificial intelligence plays a central role in the AMR solutions from Geek+ and Körber. AI is the key to fully leveraging the efficiency, flexibility, and intelligence of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs).

Suitable for:

• Smart equipment: real-time data of pallets with PAL2REC-Use of artificial intelligence for data analysis of the sensor data

Intelligent control and decision-making

AI enables AMRs to independently detect obstacles and distinguish between permanent and temporary ones. Geek+'s AI-powered solutions help manage complex logistics scenarios, such as dynamic warehouse environments with constantly changing goods movements and human employees. The AI ​​algorithms allow AMRs to make real-time decisions, optimize routes, and avoid collisions.

Enhanced functionalities through AI and machine learning

The partnership between Geek+ and Körber focuses on the further development of functionalities in the areas of AI, robotics, software, and machine learning. These technologies enable improved warehouse performance and revolutionize workflows worldwide. Through machine learning, AMR systems can continuously learn from their experiences and improve their performance over time. They can recognize patterns in the data, make predictions, and optimize their workflows accordingly.

Optimization of logistics processes through AI-based software

AI-based software enables end-to-end automation in the supply chain. Modern AI-supported software guides robots in executing missions and assists them with path planning and collision avoidance. The software optimizes order assignment, route planning, and resource allocation to ensure a smooth and efficient flow of materials in the warehouse. It also enables real-time monitoring and control of the robot fleet to respond to unforeseen events.

Adaptability and flexibility through AI platforms

Universal Logic's Neocortex AI platform, which Geek+ gains access to through the partnership, enables modular, real-time control of the robot units. This technology allows picking processes to be mapped with human-like flexibility and adapted to heterogeneous and high-volume applications. The AI ​​platforms enable the AMR systems to dynamically adapt to changing requirements and learn new tasks and processes. They offer high flexibility and scalability to keep pace with the company's growth and changing market conditions.

Advantages of automation with AI-powered robots

Automating warehouse logistics with AI-powered robots such as ACRs and AMRs offers companies a multitude of advantages:

Increased efficiency and productivity

Robots work faster, more precisely, and more tirelessly than humans. They can perform repetitive tasks around the clock and minimize downtime. This leads to a significant increase in efficiency and productivity in the warehouse.

Reduced operating costs

Although investing in automation systems initially incurs costs, it can reduce operating costs in the long run. Robots reduce the need for human labor, lower wage costs, minimize errors and waste, and optimize energy consumption.

Improved storage density and space utilization

ACRs and AMRs enable more efficient use of warehouse space through vertical storage, narrower aisles, and optimized racking systems. This can lead to significant cost savings in storage space and rental costs.

Increased flexibility and scalability

Robot-based automation systems are more flexible and scalable than fixed installation systems. They can be quickly adapted to changing requirements and expanded as needed. This is particularly important in dynamic markets with seasonal fluctuations and unpredictable changes in demand.

Improved working conditions and employee motivation

By automating repetitive and physically demanding tasks, human employees are relieved of monotonous activities. They can then focus on more challenging and value-adding tasks, which can lead to increased employee motivation and satisfaction. Furthermore, automation improves workplace safety, as robots take over dangerous tasks and reduce the risk of workplace accidents.

Increased accuracy and quality

Robots work more precisely and without errors than humans. They minimize errors in picking, storing, and retrieving goods, leading to higher delivery quality and customer satisfaction.

Improved resilience and responsiveness of the supply chain

Automated warehouses are more resilient to unforeseen events such as pandemics or natural disasters. Robots can also be used in situations where human labor is limited or unavailable. This increases the resilience and responsiveness of the supply chain and enables companies to maintain smooth operations even during crises.

Cost efficiency vs. hurdles: Is investing in robotics worthwhile?

Despite the numerous advantages, companies that rely on AI-supported robotics in warehouse logistics also face challenges:

High initial investment

Implementing automation systems requires significant initial investments in robots, infrastructure, and software. Companies must carefully assess whether these investments will pay off in the long run.

Integration into existing systems

Integrating robotic systems into existing warehouse management systems (WMS) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems can be complex and time-consuming. However, seamless integration is crucial for the success of automation.

Maintenance and servicing

Robot-based automation systems require regular maintenance and servicing to ensure reliable and trouble-free operation. Companies must ensure they have the necessary resources and expertise to perform these tasks.

Qualification and retraining of employees

The introduction of robotic systems requires the qualification and retraining of employees. Employees must learn to handle the new technologies, monitor and maintain robots, and take on new tasks in an automated warehouse.

Data protection and data security

AI-powered robotics systems collect and process large amounts of data. Companies must ensure that this data is processed securely and in accordance with applicable data protection regulations.

Despite these challenges, the future prospects for AI-powered robotics in warehouse logistics are extremely promising. The technology is developing rapidly, costs are falling, and acceptance within companies is growing. It is expected that in the coming years, more and more companies will rely on ACRs and AMRs to optimize their warehouse logistics and strengthen their competitiveness.

AI-powered autonomous robotics: The future of more efficient warehouse logistics

Artificial intelligence and autonomous robotics are fundamentally revolutionizing warehouse logistics. Autonomous case handling robots (ACR) from Hai Robotics and autonomous mobile robots (AMR) from Geek+, in partnership with Körber, offer innovative solutions that increase efficiency, maximize storage density, enhance flexibility, and reduce operating costs. These technologies help companies meet the challenges of modern logistics and thrive in an increasingly competitive environment. Partnerships between technology providers like Hai Robotics and Geek+ and integrators like Körber are crucial for disseminating these innovative solutions globally and supporting companies in transforming their warehouse logistics. The future of warehouse logistics is autonomous, intelligent, and efficient – ​​and AI-powered robotics is key to this future.

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