The global warehouse automation market is set to reach $54.6 billion by 2030, growing at an annual rate of 11.7% from 2024. This rapid growth highlights the rising need for automation solutions in logistics and manufacturing.
Technologies like computer vision and 3D sensing are pivotal in enhancing operational efficiency and accuracy. These technologies enable automated systems to navigate complex environments, identify and handle objects, and streamline inventory management, making them indispensable in modern warehouse operations.
What Is Digital Warehouse Automation?
Digital warehouse automation is the use of technology to automate manual warehouse processes. This includes deploying automated warehouse robots and sophisticated warehouse automation systems to handle everything from inventory control to order fulfillment. For logistics and manufacturing companies, this means streamlining operations, reducing reliance on manual labor, and improving speed and accuracy.
At its core, digital warehouse automation leverages various types of warehouse automation technologies, such as:
- Advanced software for inventory management and workflow optimization
- Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS)
- Goods-to-person (G2P) systems
These systems work together to manage inventory, move products, and process orders quickly and accurately.
Types of Warehouse Automation
Each of these solutions plays a critical role in reducing manual labor, enhancing accuracy, and increasing overall warehouse efficiency. By integrating these technologies, you can streamline operations and keep up with the demands of the ever-evolving logistics industry.
Goods-to-Person (G2P) Systems
G2P systems automate retrieval and delivery processes from picking stations. They can lessen the time and effort human workers need for these specific tasks. Automation speeds up order fulfillment while allowing employees to focus on higher-value activities, like customer service or quality control, rather than repetitive manual tasks.
Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS)
AS/RS are highly automated systems that store and retrieve products in warehouses. For instance, shuttles, cranes, and carousels are AS/RS that move items to and from storage locations, reducing the need for human intervention. These systems maximize space utilization as you can store items more compactly while ensuring quick access when needed.
Pick-to-Light Systems
These systems use light indicators to guide warehouse workers to the correct inventory locations for picking. They can reduce errors and speed up the picking process. By providing clear visual cues, pick-to-light systems can enhance workflow efficiency while lowering the time spent searching for items.
Voice Picking
Through voice commands, voice-picking systems guide workers through tasks much easier. The hands-free approach promotes more productivity and accuracy on your worksite, as workers can focus on picking without needing to look at a screen or paper list. Voice picking also allows employees to take care of multiple orders at once — increasing productivity.
Conveyor Systems
Conveyor systems move products through different stages of the warehouse without the need for manual transport. They also provide a smoother transition between different areas of a facility, such as receiving, sorting, and shipping. This automation technology can help you keep goods flowing continuously.
Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
AGVs transport goods within the warehouse autonomously, making the most of material movement. These vehicles maneuver through set paths or real-time navigation, improving workplace efficiency.
Collaborative Robots (Cobots)
Cobots perform tasks alongside human workers. They can enhance productivity and safety in warehouses through accurate object detection and tracking. Cobots can also spot inefficiencies to help you optimize processes when fitted with real-time monitoring technology and analysis. Their ability to work collaboratively with humans promotes a flexible jobsite that can adapt to changing workloads.
Advantages of Warehouse Automation
There are numerous benefits of digital warehouse automation:
- Fewer human errors: Automation can lower the chances of mistakes in manual human processes, like picking the wrong items or misplacing inventory. Automation can enhance accuracy and consistency without the need to rely on human judgment only.
- Reduced operational costs: Automation can significantly cut operational expenses by minimizing manual labor and improving efficiency. Automating tasks means needing fewer resources, allowing you to allocate your budget more effectively and improve financial health.
- Improved productivity: Automated systems can operate continuously and handle tasks faster than humans, increasing your throughput and productivity. This capability allows you to scale your operations easily to meet growing demand without compromising performance.
- Eliminated safety risks: Automation takes over dangerous tasks, improving worker safety. Removing employees from hazardous environments promotes a safer workplace and lowers the risk of accidents and injuries.
- Reduced processing time: Automated systems can process orders and manage inventory faster than manual methods, accelerating your fulfillment times. This efficiency can streamline operations while enhancing overall workflow within your warehouse.
- Higher customer satisfaction: Automating your warehouse processes means getting orders out faster and more accurately — leading to happier customers. When customers receive their orders promptly and without errors, it fosters loyalty and encourages repeat business, ultimately benefiting your reputation.
How Orbbec Can Help
Orbbec is leading the development of advanced warehouse automation solutions. We offer various technologies that can enhance production, supply chain, and manufacturing processes, including 3D cameras and sensors.
By leveraging Orbbec’s expertise, you can implement strong automation systems that improve your warehouse’s accuracy, speed, and efficiency. Our technologies help you precisely control your inventory and optimize efficiency — ideal for distribution and fulfillment centers. Partnering with Orbbec means accessing innovative technologies tailored to your needs, helping you stay ahead in this ever-changing industry.
Orbbec and Cargo Spectre
Orbbec partnered with Cargo Spectre to strengthen its logistics operations — bringing in advanced 3D vision technology. Cargo Spectre’s automated dimensioning systems, powered by our 3D cameras, measure cargo dimensions accurately and quickly. This integration has reduced manual measurement errors, improved data accuracy, and sped up cargo handling — demonstrating the transformative impact of 3D vision technology in logistics.
Speedcargo’s Cargo Eye System
Speedcargo implemented Orbbec’s 3D vision technology in their Cargo Eye system. This integration automated the process of measuring and analyzing cargo dimensions. Overall, the system enhanced cargo management efficiency by providing precise and rapid cargo data collection, leading to better space utilization, less handling time, and lower operational costs.
Pelican Robotics
Pelican Robotics integrated Orbbec’s 3D cameras into their mechanical arm for loading and unloading goods onto pallets. This integration created a fully autonomous workflow, boosting logistics efficiency and propelling warehouse management into the era of AI automation.
Tricolops
Tricolops technology created the RapidSize dimensioner using Orbbec’s 3D vision technology. This parcel dimensioner ensures accurate measurements for inventory control, outbound freight estimation, and packing optimization. It streamlines warehouse operations and lowers errors in parcel dimensioning.
Partner With Orbbec for Innovative Automation Technologies
Warehouse automation is transforming the logistics and manufacturing industries by enhancing efficiency and productivity. By partnering with Orbbec, you can access innovative technologies tailored to your exact needs. Explore our range of automation products to stay ahead in this evolving industry. Contact us today for a consultation and see how our solutions can optimize your warehouse operations.
