Our team just came back from MODEX, the leading trade show in the supply chain, manufacturing, and distribution industries. The show helps companies discover cutting-edge solutions and learn the latest trends that are sure to give a leg up on the competition. The innovation and the ideas that are displayed at these types of trade shows are astounding. It shows you the value of automation and the benefits it can bring to your supply chain.

When our team returned from MODEX, there were a lot of unexpected reductions in the workforce and significant changes were occurring at a moment’s notice. Changes were happening so quickly that stores could not keep up with restocking their shelves. Meanwhile, trucks are trying to deliver on-time to keep up with the demand that happened so suddenly, and some workers needed to stay home with their children due to circumstances beyond their control.

So, ask yourself this: what will you do if unexpected reductions in the workforce happen again? Will your company be prepared?

The integration of robotic solutions in fulfillment and distribution supply chains can lead to a more efficient, productive, easier, and safer workplace. Autonomous mobile robots can’t prevent unexpected reductions in the workforce, but they can help you be more prepared.

Here are the top three reasons an AMR can help your company during the unexpected:

1. Longer Working Hours: Autonomous mobile robots can work 24/7 at 100%! AMRs do not require breaks or sick days and can keep up with volume demand. Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR) can charge their batteries periodically. When multiple robots are deployed using MiR Fleet, the system evaluates battery levels and job loads, optimizing utilization, and recharging to keep the fleet on the job around the clock.
2. Increased Efficiency: The next order processed is always the most urgent! Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR) are controlled via software, which means access to data is much easier. Using this data provides consistent feedback about the location of the product, making it possible to get a better insight into the actual process flow. This, in turn, helps to develop an understanding of all material movement, making it easier to improve and optimize product flow and production processes for better efficiency.
3. Adaptability: AMRs such as the Exotec Skypod has a system with unlimited design capabilities that can be tailor-made to fit the customer’s demands today and in the future. Exotec’s System addresses the urgency of a new era of customers who are looking for high performance and high-density systems that can handle intense flows and seasonal increases.

While the idea of a collaborative environment between human and robotic workers can seem hard to believe for a few, we are seeing how AMRs are helping their human counterparts work more efficiently. Are you ready to talk about implementing AMRs into your facility? Contact us today!