Climbing robot promises high tote density and fast throughput

The system is the second such solution that uses AMRs that climb bespoke racking to retrieve tote boxes, after Exotec’s Skypod system.

So what makes the new system from HAI Robotics stand out?

The system is said to achieve a throughput of 4,000 totes pers hour in a 1,000 sq m footprint reaching to 12 metres. The manufacturer adds that such a system would achieve a density of 30,000 tote boxes.

Founder and CEO Richie Chen adds: “As well as high performance, we want the system to be easy to implement. It doesn’t need a very flat floor, so it is good for brownfield. We want to convince the companies that are interested in automation but fear the potential complexity. This is a simple solution.”

The goods-to-person system utilises one type of robot - the HaiClimber - and can handle both picking and putaway. As well as totes, the system can handle cartons provided they are on a tray. The HaiClimber bot navigates low-precision environments at up to 4 metres per second, moving freely up, down, and beneath racks.

HAI says the system can go from purchase to live in one to three months, can fulfil an order in two minutes and a worker can learn how to use it in 30 minutes.

HAI deploys a safety vest for maintenance staff, so the system does not need to stop in the event of planned or unplanned breaks. The robots will stop or slow for the workers as they navigate the system wearing the vest. This boosts uptime, as well as the fact that the robot-based system has no single point of failure.

A double deep version of the system is expected in Q3 2025.

The robot uses two climbing arms to connect to a guide rail on one side of the rack, halving connection points compared other systems. This reduces maintenance, ensures greater reliability, and simplifies installation by lowering precision requirements for racks and floors, allowing a rapid go-live, says the firm.

Chen continues: “As a result, HaiPick Climb is ideal for retrofitting existing warehouses or enhancing newly built facilities.”

For more information, visit www.hairobotics.com