Honeywell announced its latest innovation in robotic technology designed to help warehouses and distribution centres automate the manual process of unloading pallets, reducing the operational risks of potential injuries and labour shortages.
Driven by sophisticated machine learning and advances in perception and gripping technologies, Honeywell’s Smart Flexible Depalletiser minimises the need for manual labour to break down pallet loads – roles that carry the risk of injury to labour, experience high turnover and are currently challenging to staff. A typical medium-to-large-sized distribution centre unpacks up to several thousand pallets per day, with the probability of errors, injuries and worker fatigue increasing during each shift.
Also Read: The Rise And Rise of Robots
The depalletiser’s articulated robotic arm is guided by progressive vision and perception technologies, which allow cases to be picked from a single- or mixed-SKU pallet on a fixed or mobile location. The latest computer vision technology identifies the exact location of every case on the pallet, while perception software automatically recognises a wide variety of packaging. This technology allows for seamless handling of a continuous flow of pallets in any sequence without requiring any pre-programming or operator intervention.
Advanced machine learning and motion planning to optimise the robotic arm’s movements to ensure maximum picking speed and efficiency. The control logic also senses the weight of each item as the robot lifts it and automatically updates its gripping response to transfer each product securely and effectively. The more the solution picks, the more it learns and continues to improve in quickly and efficiently unloading pallets.
A recent Honeywell study revealed more than half of companies are more willing to invest in automation because of the pandemic and its lasting effects. The same survey showed companies see the increased speed of tasks, greater productivity and increased employee utilisation and productivity as the top three potential benefits from automation.
The robot can work in conjunction with pallet conveyance autonomous mobile robots, enabling continuous operation of the system while providing the flexibility to stage pallets and empty stacks virtually anywhere the robot is capable of travelling.
From concept and integration, Honeywell Intelligrated draws on its expanding portfolio and deep industry expertise to help warehousing, distribution and fulfilment companies optimise and manage their processes. The business offers integrated end-to-end automation systems, warehouse automation software and lifecycle support services regardless of the manufacturer to improve throughput and keep workers safe.
