Robots as a service simplifies the automation of sorting operations
CONTROL & AUTOMATION ROBOTIC SORTING AS A SERVICE
PRIME VISION
Robots as a service simplifies the automation of sorting operations
Offering products as a service allows users to test new technologies with reduced risks . This is good news for warehouse sorting operations in the parcels , ecommerce and fulfilment sector , where operators can struggle to justify replacing traditional manual processes with robots . To facilitate this changeover , Prime Vision is now offering robotic sorting as a service ( RSaaS ), allowing its customers to effortlessly implement this highly flexible solution .
Robots have revolutionised repetitive processes , delivering greater efficiency , accuracy and speed in a multitude of applications . This is especially true in sortation operations within e-commerce fulfilment centres and largescale parcel hubs , where workers traditionally sort parcels into roll cages and pallets based on their destination . However , doing this manually is slow , strenuous and error prone . Fortunately , robots are changing this . With advanced navigation systems and advanced software , robots can efficiently move parcels to and from any sorting destination within a predefined area , optimising throughput and reducing reliance on manual labour .
Reservations about robots
Despite the clear operational benefits of robots – there are barriers to entry . First is attitude . To many , robots are still a solution of the future rather than today , so some operators can be sceptical about replacing a familiar manual process with something they consider experimental .
Next is upfront cost . Buying even a small fleet of robots can involve CAPEX that may not be supported by the budget , giving operators another reason not to automate .
Then there is hassle . To run a fleet of robots , businesses require system design , implementation experts and ongoing maintenance support - all of which can place increased strain on the team and raise operating expenditure ( OPEX ).
An established technology
Prime Vision is overcoming reservations regarding robotic sorting by providing a proven solution in a flexible service package .
Operating a fleet of over a thousand robots running at the world ’ s largest postal operators , Prime Vision has standardised this once experimental technology . Standing 1 m high with an 80 x 60 cm loading surface for parcels , each robot can carry small and large packages weighing over 30 kg . Fleets can number from a few robots to over 70 , with the ability to move up to 3000 to 4000 parcels per hour . Consequently , Prime Vision robots are suitable for most sorting processes .
This is because robots , equipped with information from the warehouse management system , can drive to any destination within a mapped area , eliminating staged sorting processes and maximising
efficiency . Scalability is built in as operators can easily add or remove sorting destinations , allowing straightforward system optimisation to meet different levels of demand .
LIDAR and an overarching fleet management system ensure safe routing and functionality . With the robots able to detect and avoid obstacles , people can safely enter the area of operation , creating a hybrid space . A shutdown button for the system is also provided .
Considering this install-base , versatility and safety , operators of Prime Vision robots have the assurance of using a proven technology .
Pay for what you need
Even if attitudes are favourable towards robots , the CAPEX involved in deploying such a solution can be beyond existing budgets . The solution to this is a RSaaS model . Rather than buying hardware , Prime Vision offers its customers a holistic service package that operates on a pay-per-capacity model .
Prime Vision experts will assess the sorting requirements and design a tailored system that integrates with
50 PECM Issue 73