Give your ops an AMR boost
In a recent webinar, Locus Robotics shared its experience of implementing automation in warehouses large and small. Whether you already have some automation in place or are starting from scratch, you can learn how to assess what you need and the process to follow to boost your warehouse performance. Logistics Matters editor Simon Duddy reports.
I REALLY enjoyed this hour-long free webinar, which broadcast on November 30, as it was tailor-made for our audience, answering all of the questions curious warehouse operators could have about introducing or developing robotics on their premises. I enjoyed hearing from the experts at Locus – business development managers John Baker and Kane Edwards, and sales engineering director Steve Temple – as they brought their many years of experience together to give you insight on how to assess your warehouse automation requirements; understand the pros and cons of different types of automation; identify the right automation supplier; and ensure your automated investments are flexible and future-proofed.
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The presentation prompted a lively Q&A session and I felt that the conversation could have gone on for a good deal longer such was the interest in these innovative machines and how they can re-make the warehouse. Certainly, if this article and the webinar whets your appetite, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Locus Robotics for a detailed consultation on how autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) can give your warehouse operations a boost.
I strongly recommend you view the webinar itself, which is available on demand for one year, and in the meantime here are a few key takeaways.
John Baker explained how well the Locusbots play in warehouses where flexibility is a priority.
John Baker, business development manager, Locus Robotics
“One of our key customers in the UK is Boots,” he said. “We’ve been working with Boots for three years. They use 80 bots on a day-to-day basis, but our system is such that they can flex this up to 200 bots for Peak season if they require.”
More interesting facts – the largest warehouse Locus serves is a facility with a total pick area of an astonishing 1.2 million sq ft, while its largest hourly output is a hefty 25,000 units per hour.
Other customers include Adidas, Ikea, DHL and John Lewis.
Kane Edwards highlighted common customer challenges, such as labour, with difficulties in hiring and retaining employees; managing resources, that is getting more without ratcheting up operational costs; as well as trying to create a better, safer, less tiring environment for staff; and addressing economic volatility and demand fluctuations.
Kane Edwards, business development manager, Locus Robotics
Kane explained: “You can Google warehouse automation and see a great deal of options, but how do you find the right solution for you? Start by understanding your operations and identifying your priorities. It could be maximising space, cutting operational costs, or keeping up with greater throughput demands.”
Steve Temple explained how advanced algorithims help with processing the work. Jobs are created by the WMS and passed to the AMR software LocusOne.
“We then prioritise that job pool based on whatever metrics the operation has decided,” said Steve.
Steve Temple, sales engineering director, Locus Robotics
“In Stage 2 the bot will induct whatever container is needed for the job. Once you’ve scanned the container the software will look for other jobs that are going to a similar area, as well as the location of pickers and bots. It’s a fine balance between having enough density to pick the items without having so many in an area that it creates congestion. We’ll look very closely at the data we gather and share that with you. Then we can collaborate to understand what’s going on your operation and can configure the robotics to best serve your needs.
“It’s important to clarify these aren’t follow bots, a picker may have several bots in their vicinity and can they can choose which to use.”
The system allows a real-time view of operations, so managers can react dynamically to fast-changing requirements. To conclude, Steve offered three key tips on automation:
- Be open minded.
- Think end to end about your requirements.
- Plan for now and three years from now.
Locus Robotics has a structured follow-up path for warehouse operators who are keen to hear more, from assistance on surveying your operations, to visiting a live deployment, WMS integration considerations, developing a Concept of Operations and much more. Contact Locus to hear more.
Catch up On Demand
You can watch the webinar and Q&A session online at
There is no cost but registration is required. You will receive CPD points for watching the webinar.
For more information, visit www.locusrobotics.com
