MACHINING & MACHINERY
carried ) robots can efficiently deliver non-machinable items to the next stage of the sorting process without human intervention . Robots are equally adept working with other installed infrastructure in small- or large-scale operations – allowing almost universal application . Navigation software and a talent for working in tight spaces means that robots carrying large items could even coexist next to others moving smaller ones , uniting sorting operations within a single , highly efficient and flexible ecosystem .
Working together for delivery
Any sortation process is interlinked , and it is at the end of the process where computer vision and robotics can be further integrated to ensure reliable delivery of non-machinable items to customers .
After pre-sorting and transport , non-machinable items need to be placed in chutes or storage areas
ready for final dispatch . However , due to their size and awkward shapes , more space needs to be allocated in chutes to accommodate them . Failure to do so risks blockages or items being damaged .
However , by harnessing a computer vision system to check available capacity in each chute , robots can be directed to unload at a destination where room is available , like a game of logistical Tetris . Blockages and damage can be avoided , while providing a healthy buffer for simplified loading into cages , pallets and delivery vehicles .
Making everything machinable
Currently , nearly every sorting operation has a percentage of nonmachinable items which represents a reduction in profit . This will not be the case for much longer . The combination of computer vision and robotics promises to end the era of non-machinable items and consign the term to history .
The ability of computer vision to accurately identify problematic goods and the inherent flexibility of robots will soon ensure that every item is machinable . Manual intervention will be a thing of the past , as these parcels and products will be accommodated in an efficient , automatic process that is tailored to their unique requirements . In some cases , the movement of smaller and larger items may be possible in the same areas .
Tantalisingly , this can be achieved in conjunction with existing operational infrastructure , as computer vision and robotics can be integrated with installed hardware and software rather than replacing it . Combined with the inherent flexibility and scalability of both solutions , the entire postal , e-commerce and logistics sector could soon see an end to the era where size and shape mattered .
More from Prime Vision : https :// primevision . com / solving-the-sizeable-problem-of-non-machinable-items /
Issue 70 PECM 97