A Detailed Explanation on Warehouse Automation, Including Types and Benefits

Introduction

Automation is becoming more and more relevant in the modern world, and warehouses are no longer behind with warehouse automation becoming a more sensible option for warehouse operators and owners. Warehouse features such as forklifts, storage systems etc. are some areas that are automated. Cost-saving and efficiency are touted as the most comprehensive benefits of automating a warehouse, but there are also many other aspects on why warehouses should be automated as soon as possible.

What is Warehouse Automation?

Warehouse automation can be said as the process of automating the core elements of a warehouse such as inventory management, storage systems and retrieval systems that could be done with minimal intervention or assistance from human workers. While the exact elements to be automated depends on the project and end-goal of the project, inventory management is one of the first elements to be automated in any project.

What Changes Need to Be Done for a Warehouse Automation Project?

First of all, the existing systems needs to be evaluated. They have to be compatible with the automation systems or they are replaced with modern machines, which can increase the cost of the project. Secondly, the existing environment of the warehouse will require some changes due to introduction of computer and digital systems that act as controllers for automation systems. Thirdly, the new systems must be a lot more efficient, so planning needs to be done accordingly. Any changes made should reflect improvement in efficiency and not just be present for the sake of change.

Components of Warehouse Automation System

The components of a warehouse automation system can be divided into two major categories:

1. Digital Process Automation

2. Physical Process Automation

Digital process automation includes technological improvements such as warehouse management software, cloud-based database, machine learning algorithms, software applications, automation software etc. They consist of all the software that make the hardware and machines run properly and dictate the finer elements of automation.

Physical process automation includes robotic systems, automatic storage and retrieval systems, IoT systems, smart shelves, automated belts etc. They consist of all the hardware that are controlled by software in place.

How Does it Work?

The tasks that are to be automated are programmed into the automation software and other related software, which is then given out to hardware and machines such as robotics, sensors and storage systems. The entire system can be manually set up by the warehouse operators via central control system. Once the tasks are fed in, the system performs them exactly as specified continuously.

Types of Warehouse Automation

1. Simple Automation: It includes basic technology aimed at reducing human labor in warehouses, such as moving conveyor belts.

2. Digital Automation: It involves using computer software, such as analytics and machine learning, to improve warehouse efficiency using existing warehouse machinery in place.

3. Mechanized Automation: It involves using mechanical automation machines, such as robots or automatic storage systems that aim to improve warehouse efficiency and get more things done in much less time. Human workers work alongside these machines.

4. Fully Automated System: These combine both the software and hardware to achieve a complete automation of the warehouse where human involvement is minimal. Robotics and automated systems take care of all the essential daily tasks in the warehouse. This is implemented in most major high-volume warehouses across the country.

Main Benefits

1. High Efficiency: Machines are highly efficient and have nearly zero chance of error, helping the company save costs on downtime due to errors.

2. Adaptability: Automated warehouses can work with diverse workloads, reducing the load of increased demand or volume on the business.

3. Advanced Analytics: Automated warehouses allow for advanced analytics that provide companies on valuable data to improve the systems even more.

3. Better Consumer Satisfaction: High efficiency means consumers and clients get their goods delivered faster, increasing end-user satisfaction.