ID Logistics, an international contract logistics operators, in line with its strategy, invests in the latest solutions supporting the handling of warehouse processes. The operator has implemented 80 intelligent LocusBots ™ robots to automate the order picking and replenishment system in one of the e-commerce warehouses. ID Logistics is also the first logistics company in Spain to use artificial intelligence to automate the tracking of operational processes in a warehouse thanks to the integration of Bleecker codes.
ROBOTS WILL OPTIMIZE AND INCREASE THE EFFICIENCY OF E-COMMERCE OPERATION
ID Logistics has installed 80 collaborative and autonomous LocusBots ™ robots in its warehouse in Seseña near Toledo (30,000 sq m), dedicated to supporting the new Woman’s Secret e-commerce platform. Their task is to prepare, load and unload orders, replenish stocks, as well as automatically optimize travel routes around the warehouse. The robots, resembling small trolleys, are equipped with containers and baskets to receive various orders and product references. Thanks to the touch screen on which the goods to be picked are displayed, they cooperate with the employee preparing the orders, thus facilitating the picking process and optimizing its efficiency.
LocusBots ™ are able to move independently to picking sites. They calculate the optimal route and automatically remember the most efficient routes. All this information is passed on to other robots. This increases their productivity while optimizing their journeys. Warehouse workers can collaborate with several robots, which makes it easier for them to fulfill various orders and tasks at the same time.
The technology used allows to save 40 percent. working time compared to the conventional order picking method. The use of assisted picking and multi-tasking robots instead of manually operated trucks reduces the physical effort of employees. LocusBots ™ are equipped with Lidars sensors and artificial intelligence, thanks to which they visualize the environment by detecting the presence of employees and other objects. This information is also passed on to other robots, which allows for the optimization of travel routes.
TECHNOLOGY THAT REDUCES THE RISK OF ERRORS
Thanks to the application of this innovation and the use of robots, ID Logistics begins the next stage of process automation and securing warehouse operations. A solution that can be easily integrated with the WMS system does not require a special warehouse layout, which makes it very easy to implement. Management reports are sent in real time, so you can monitor warehouse performance indicators very accurately.
To minimize errors in order preparation, the robot first detects the language used by the picker for better understanding and interaction. Then, the screen displays photos of the goods to be downloaded and indicates the place where they should be placed. This increases the efficiency of preparation, and also improves the staff training process.
Over the next few months, a total of 120 such robots will be deployed in various warehouses of the ID Logistics Group.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TRACKS PROCESSES IN THE WAREHOUSE
Another innovation, based on the integration of Bleecker codes, is being implemented by ID Logistics in the Azuqueca de Henares warehouse in Guadalajara. The operator is thus the first logistics company in Spain to apply artificial intelligence to automate the tracking of all common warehouse management processes.
The technology was developed by Bleecker Technologies, an organization founded by lecturers from the University of Murcia specializing in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Bleecker codes are new visual labels based on patterns specially designed to allow accurate code identification. This intelligent system consists of high-resolution software and cameras installed in different parts of the warehouse, especially in transit zones. Cameras detect Bleecker codes on packages, pallets or handling devices. Artificial intelligence algorithms identify and control all movements detected by cameras. Analyzes of unloading and loading of goods and the movement of devices are used to check the traceability of each product in real time.
Compared to other, more traditional methods (barcodes, QR codes, RFID technology, etc.), Bleecker codes allow for real-time 360 ° warehouse monitoring. They ensure full control of the traceability of all processes, real-time data processing and identification of the goods being moved. Thanks to this solution, ID Logistics will increase the efficiency of the entire logistics process, while minimizing the possibility of human error, from the receipt of the goods to its shipment to recipients in Spain.
In the coming months, ID Logistics plans to implement this innovative technology in another five warehouses in Spain. Ultimately, it is to be used in over 64 warehouses in Spain and Portugal.
