Robotic sortation systems are automated sorting machines that use robotics. Automated sortation systems can take many forms, including using a series of conveyor belts and carousels to move items around the warehouse to sort them into specific carts, bins, or other containers.
Robotic sorts can vary significantly based on size and capability. Companies can install a system in a simple warehouse or distribution center, and larger warehouses can have more robotic sorters integrated into the entire facility.
How Does a Robotic Sortation System Work?
A sortation system can include a mix of technologies. Modern sortation systems can consist of robotics in conjunction with a conveyor system guided by vision technology. The robotic sortation system picks up each object from the edge of a line and places it into a location. These systems can do primary sort processes from receiving and decanting into bins or totes; and complete secondary sort processes for customer orders. You can adjust the belt speeds depending on your size, shape, and output needs. Some warehouses can install a camera or sensor that monitors each belt and scans individual items as they pass through to ensure proper sorting.
Advantages of Using Robotic Sortation Systems
Robotic sortation provides many benefits to warehouses and distribution centers. They are efficient and make large-scale, complex tasks simpler to manage. Some of the functions they enable include picking items off a conveyer belt or from an individual bin. In addition, these sortation systems can be paired with vision to perform quality inspections and alert when there is a defect.
Further, sorting items in a warehouse or distribution center is repetitive, and mistakes can be costly. Employees can only sort one item at a time, using significantly more effort to pick up each item from the conveyor belt than robotic sorts do. In addition, labor shortages have caused strain for large warehouses requiring tens of thousands of orders to be sorted per day.
Robotic sortation systems are more accurate and efficient than manual labor alone.
Automated sorting is done much faster than with employees alone, especially for large warehouses, distribution centers, and even small businesses.
Robotic sorts can pick up items from a conveyor belt or bin, depending on the warehouse's needs.
These systems can pack and ship orders according to customer specifications.
What to Consider Before Introducing a Robotic Sortation System to a Warehouse
Companies should consider multiple factors for robotic sorts to be effective in warehouses and distribution centers. First, companies should thoughtfully plan volume, space, and ergonomics. It may take several months to multiple years to install a solution, so companies need to know the volume of items, parts, or products to sort and how that will scale over time. Companies should work with experienced integrators to plan an end-to-end automation solution that includes the technology they need for success.
In addition, robotic sorting doesn't work well if there is not enough space in a warehouse. Companies need to install their sortation system in an area with enough space for the robotic arm(s) and conveyor belts. There should also be enough room to install carts or output bins where items are packed into boxes before being shipped out.
Lastly, companies should consider ergonomics when determining if robotic sorts are a good fit. If robotic arms need to lift heavy loads, manufacturers should ensure employees stay clear of the area.
How JR Automation Can Help Automate Your Warehouse
JR Automation has the experience to create and install the robotic sortation system that meets the unique needs of any warehouse. We specially designed our RFSS for material handling tasks like picking up items off a conveyor belt or moving boxes around in an assembly line. JR Automation works with vendors and our in-house engineers to plan an efficient solution for any warehouse layout and the volume of products, parts, or components needed to be sorted within a warehouse.
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