Automated order processing systems are the pulsing heart of every modern distribution and fulfillment center. If you’re evaluating robotic systems for automated order processing, here’s a guide to get you started.
- SYSTEM CHECKLIST
1. Does it effectively utilize every square inch of available space?
Some systems require extensive use of conveyor, sorting and buffering equipment for sequencing. Others create potential bottlenecks because of their lift design and requirements for inter-aisle transfer. Efficient systems automatically store, pick, buffer, sequence, supply workstations and replenish work areas.
- Look for an "all-in-one" system with goods-to-person (G2) functionality.
2. Will it satisfy your need for speed?
Some systems can take up to 5 minutes for order retrieval depending on the depth to dig. Others can leak performance because they require a third-party for system control. Some rely on older ASRS control and have difficulty realizing promised system performance.
- Look for a dynamic one-cycle picking and supply process that uses a modern approach to software and controls.
3. How low can it go?
With ongoing labor shortages, reducing the number of manual touches and improving workforce productivity is now mission-critical. Make sure your system can streamline the fulfillment process by integrating multiple functions including robotic induction, robotic picking, returns, transport conveyance and dynamic sortation.
- Look for low and even no-touch systems that can address multiple needs.
4. Is it stuck in the past or ready for the future?
Some systems only work properly for 80% of picks because they’re based on an ABC order structure. In linear systems like these, segmented totes and short-term orders have a massive impact on performance that ripples across the warehouse. The growth of eCommerce will only frustrate performance problems. Coordinating complex individual orders requires dynamic buffering and process decoupling. This non-linear approach ensures constant workflow with no congestion or waiting.
- Look for structural, process and orchestration agility.
5. Can it grow as you grow?
Some systems have limitations in length, height and load carrier handling. Others can’t increase performance without increasing the footprint. Ask whether the system can scale storage locations, rack lines and lifts independently. Ask if additional peripherals such as G2P workstations, robotic picking stations, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) can be easily integrated.
- Look for a modular system design.
6. Is it ready for prime time?
Make sure the system is tried, true and thoroughly tested. Ask about the number of installations in your industry. Insist on performance proof points in live production environments. Make sure there’s no single-point-of-failure.
- Look for technical maturity and system redundancy.
7. Is it purely transactional?
Transactional systems store items based on available space. They don’t consider inventory management. They treat fast, medium and slow moving items the same. Intelligent systems decide how items should be stored and sequenced for maximum efficiency and faster throughput.
- Look for systems with integrated inventory management capabilities.
8. Does it support sustainable packaging?
There’s a growing call from consumers for more sustainable packaging. They don’t like their online orders delivered in oversized packaging. With rising DIM charges, many companies are no longer willing to ship air. Make sure your order processing system can support in-line packaging systems that produce right-sized dispatch cartons without slowing throughput.
- Look for integrated support of automated packaging.
9. Can you continue operations during maintenance?
Some systems require shutting down the entire system to recover defective robots. Others have to shut down parts of adjacent systems. Some have no well-conceived maintenance concept at all! Ask how robots are accessed during maintenance. Is recovery difficult and dangerous for maintenance personnel? Does service require personal safety equipment? Is the system designed for safe response, troubleshooting and repair?
- Look for easy access to service levels and an integrated approach to safety and repair.
10. Is it safe?
Some systems can only be sprinkled from the top. Others require oxygen-reduced environments. Some stack totes, which leads to extreme concentration of fire load. Others require Li-Ion batteries and fiberglass covers.
- Look for comprehensive fire protection with in-rack sprinklers.
11. Select a product and a partner.
Don’t just pick a product. Pick a partner that can help you build logistics value over time. Make sure they have the kind of intralogistics know-how that can help you mitigate labor shortages by minimizing manual touches. Discuss implementation and expertise in your industry. Make sure they have an extensive customer service network and you’ll have a single point of contact.
- Look for a partner who wins when you win.
