What Is Robot Picking?
Robot picking employs robots to automate the picking process in warehouses and factories.
This method streamlines the retrieval of goods or parts for further processing, such as inspection or packaging, enhancing efficiency and accuracy.
Simple systems involve workers placing items on robots for transport, while more advanced setups feature robots independently executing the entire picking process.
Uses of Robot Picking
Robot picking is increasingly adopted in large-scale distribution and e-commerce shipping warehouses to address rapid demand growth. It’s critical in the manufacturing, logistics, and retail sectors, offering solutions to labor shortages by improving efficiency and reducing errors.
Principles of Robot Picking
Logistics robots or transport robots designed for robot picking are equipped with cameras, robot arms, and control systems to identify, grasp, and move products efficiently.
1. Camera
Cameras and laser sensors identify the position and shape of products, facilitating targeted picking.
2. Robot Arm
Equipped with suction or chuck grippers, the robot arm securely handles items.
3. Control System
A sophisticated control system navigates the robot, avoiding obstacles within the warehouse environment.
Features of Robot Picking
Robot picking enhances work efficiency and space utilization by eliminating worker aisles, though it requires significant initial investment and workflow adjustments. Manual intervention is necessary if robots encounter issues.
Types of Robot Picking
Diverse robots support robot picking, including AGVs, AMRs, GTPs, and piece-picking robots, each offering unique advantages and capabilities.
1. AGV
AGVs, or unmanned transport robots, follow designated paths, supporting but not performing the picking process directly.
2. AMR
AMRs navigate optimally and autonomously, enhancing efficiency when operating in coordinated groups.
3. GTP
GTP robots bring shelves to workers, streamlining the picking process by reducing worker movement.
4. Piece-Picking Robot
Using AI and machine learning, piece-picking robots identify and pick individual items, further automating the picking process when integrated with AGVs or AMRs.