The Evolution of Robotics in eCommerce Fulfillment: Insights from Jonathan Briggs

Introduction:

In a recent illuminating podcast, Aaron Alpeter, the founder of Izba, welcomed Jonathan Briggs, VP of Sales and Solutions at Nimble, as the esteemed guest speaker. Their insightful discussion delved deep into the evolution of robotics in eCommerce fulfillment. 

This comprehensive blog captures the essence of their conversation, shedding light on the historical journey of robotics and its pivotal role in the modern eCommerce landscape.

The Historical Perspective:

Sharing his wealth of knowledge, Jonathan took the listeners on a historical journey through the evolution of robotics in fulfillment.

• Early Experiments and Manufacturing Roots: Robotics traces its origins back to World War Two, where early experiments paved the way for innovations. General Motors’ introduction of robotics in the ’60s marked a significant milestone in manufacturing.
• The eCommerce Revolution: The shift towards eCommerce fulfillment gained momentum in the early 2000s with the advent of Kiva Systems, revolutionizing warehousing practices and setting the stage for future developments.
• Amazon’s Game-Changing Acquisition: Amazon’s strategic acquisition of Kiva in 2012 marked a turning point, propelling the development of cutting-edge AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robotics) systems.
• AI-Powered Precision: By 2017-2018, advancements in artificial intelligence empowered robots to execute intricate tasks such as pick and pack, redefining the standards of efficiency in the eCommerce sector.

The Role of COVID-19:

Jonathan delved into the profound impact of COVID-19 on the robotics industry, accelerating its growth and adoption in warehouses.

• Rapid Advancements Amidst Crisis: COVID-19 acted as a catalyst, accelerating the growth of artificial intelligence. Billions of dollars poured into the sector, fuelling rapid advancements and pushing the boundaries of robotics technology.
• Investor Enthusiasm and Innovation: The pandemic triggered an “arms race” among investors, leading to aggressive funding and innovation in robotics. This surge in interest expedited the development and deployment of robotics solutions.

Amazon and Shopify’s Strategies:

Jonathan and Aaron dissected the strategic moves of eCommerce giants like Amazon and Shopify, offering valuable insights into their motivations.

• Amazon’s Bold Moves: Amazon’s acquisition of Kiva reflected a strategic vision, transforming their internal logistics and inspiring the development of AMR systems.
• Shopify’s Adaptive Approach: Shopify’s foray into robotics, exemplified by the acquisition of 6 Rivers, showcased their adaptive approach in aligning with industry trends and customer demands.

Diverse Robotics Applications:

Both participants elaborated on the diverse applications of robotics in warehouses and emphasized their pivotal role in reshaping the fulfillment landscape. However, the world of robotics in eCommerce fulfillment is far more diverse and dynamic. Let’s explore various applications, including some not mentioned by Jonathan.

1. ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems):

ASRS systems have transformed warehouses by enabling efficient and compact storage solutions. These systems use a combination of hardware and software to automatically store and retrieve goods from predetermined locations. ASRS is particularly beneficial for optimizing space utilization, reducing manual handling, and enhancing inventory management. The automated nature of ASRS minimizes the risk of errors and helps maintain a systematic approach to storage.

2. Autonomous Mobile Robotics (AMR):

As highlighted by Jonathan, AMR systems focus on material handling, ensuring products move seamlessly within the warehouse. These robots can operate autonomously and adapt to changing conditions, making them incredibly versatile. AMRs contribute to enhanced operational efficiency, reduced labor costs, and can be programmed to follow predetermined routes or work in a more dynamic environment.

3. Pick and Place Robotics:

Powered by artificial intelligence, pick-and-place robots are designed to mimic human dexterity. These robots excel in tasks that require precise handling, such as picking items from shelves and placing them in containers. In eCommerce fulfillment centers, they play a crucial role in assembling customer orders quickly and accurately, reducing errors and increasing throughput.

4. Singulation Robotics:

Singulation is a crucial process in fulfillment, where individual items are separated for sorting. In the past, humans performed this task manually. However, modern robotics have taken over, providing a highly efficient and precise solution. These robots ensure that products are arranged for sorting or packaging one at a time, contributing to accurate and efficient order fulfillment.

5. Palletization and Deep Palletization:

Jonathan briefly mentioned the use of six-axis robots for palletization, which is a crucial task in many fulfillment centers. These robots excel at stacking and arranging products on pallets, ensuring that items are efficiently stored and transported. Deep palletization involves optimizing the arrangement of goods within pallets, making most of the available space, reducing shipping costs, and minimizing damage during transit.

6. Trailer Loading and Unloading:

Modern robotics have revolutionized the way trailers are loaded and unloaded in distribution centers. Autonomous robots, often equipped with advanced computer vision systems, can efficiently load and unload goods from trailers. This not only speeds up the process but also minimizes the risk of damage to products. FedEx’s recent announcement about their ability to load loose-loaded trailers in a FedEx hub demonstrates the potential of robotics in this application.

7. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs):

Automated Guided Vehicles are essentially driverless forklifts that can transport materials within the warehouse. These vehicles can operate without human intervention, following predefined paths or using advanced navigation systems. AGVs are highly efficient and can significantly reduce the need for manual labor in material transportation tasks.

8. Yard Management with Autonomous Trucks:

Yard management involves the efficient organization of trailers and containers in a warehouse’s yard. Autonomous trucks, also known as yard jockeys, have started to play a significant role in this area. They can move trailers and containers with precision, optimizing the use of space and expediting the loading and unloading process.

9. Automated Packaging Solutions:

While not discussed by Jonathan, automated packaging solutions are worth mentioning. These systems use robotics to pack items into containers or boxes efficiently. They can adapt to various product sizes and shapes, ensuring that packages are securely and neatly prepared for shipping.

10. Collaborative Robots (Cobots):

Collaborative robots, or cobots, are designed to work alongside human workers. They offer a unique synergy between automation and human interaction. Cobots are often used for tasks that require a level of dexterity, such as assisting in pick and pack processes, quality control, and even customer interaction.

Takeaway:

In their conversation, Jonathan and Aaron provided a comprehensive overview of the robotics landscape in eCommerce fulfillment. However, the world of robotics in eCommerce fulfillment is vast and continually evolving, encompassing various applications that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and overall productivity. From autonomous systems that optimize storage and movement to advanced robots that handle intricate tasks, the impact of robotics on the industry is undeniable.

As technology continues to advance, the future of eCommerce fulfillment promises unparalleled efficiency, transforming the way goods reach the hands of consumers. The applications of robotics in eCommerce fulfillment are diverse and dynamic, adapting to the evolving needs of the industry.

Watch the Full Conversation here.