Robot Solutions for E-commerce

E-commerce businesses are under increasing pressure to streamline their internal logistics operations. Efficient warehousing, inventory management, order processing and shipping are essential to meeting consumer expectations and staying competitive. The ability to deliver orders quickly and accurately is crucial, but so is the flexibility to adapt to evolving consumer demands. This is where automation comes into play.

With solutions ranging from autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) to collaborative robot arms which can be used to perform tasks like picking, sorting, case packing, and packaging, automation can significantly enhance both operational speed and accuracy, providing businesses with a competitive edge.

Optimised Material Handling with Autonomous Mobile Robots

Every e-commerce operation, large or small, has internal logistical requirements, whether it be transporting goods internally or delivering products for dispatch.

"Forklift trucks (FLTs) have always been the staple way to get pallets from point A to B." Says Alec Jackson, Systems Sales Manager at RARUK Automation. "But they do come with certain drawbacks, such as space, cost, manpower or potential accidents caused by blind spots around the ends of racking, for example. Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are a versatile solution to streamline internal transportation and material handling"

"Mobile Industrial Robots robots are capable of carrying loads of up to 1,350 kg." Jackson explains. "They are extremely versatile and can be customised by adding top modules to suit the application."

Simple, open platform software allows for fast mapping and deployment. With long battery life and opportunity charging, MiRs can work around the clock if required.

MiR Fleet software gives complete autonomy for up to 100 robots, selecting the correct robots for the missions requested, dependant on top module requirements and battery life. The latest version, MiR Fleet Enterprise, delivers enterprise-ready, cybersecure fleet control designed for advanced scalability and complex integration, whilst MiR Insights provides data to help optimise your AMR utilisation.

AMRs from MiR can work around the clock

Improved Efficiency with Collaborative Robots

Collaborative robots (cobots) are increasingly used in e-commerce to improve efficiency and meet consumer demands. Universal Robots cobots work alongside human workers in a shared space, performing tasks like order picking, sorting, packing, box erecting and palletising. 

In warehouse applications, using scanners or vision systems, cobots can be programmed to pick orders from conveyors, racks or automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS). This frees up staff to focus on more complex, higher value tasks. The robots can also run 24/7, meaning that order picking can continue through the night. 

Cobots can also be used to form boxes or cartons, pack goods and seal boxes or for end-of-line palletising. This increases efficiency in order fulfilment. It is also possible to integrate collaborative robot arms with AMRs, creating an automated workflow for order picking, packing and transportation. 

Collaborative robots can be used to automate a range of e-commerce tasks

WATCH: How Collaborative Robots from Universal Robots Enable Flexible Automation at DCL

Conclusion

The integration of automation solutions like AMRs and collaborative robots represents a significant opportunity for e-commerce businesses to optimise their order picking processes and internal logistics. By embracing automation, businesses can enhance operational efficiency and meet the ever-growing demands of consumers for faster and more reliable delivery. The solutions highlighted demonstrate that investing in the right automation technology can create significant long-term value, enabling businesses to scale, adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing marketplace.