Blog Post Webinar: Logistics Robots Why & How

This blog post is based on the second webinar hosted by Heex featuring Javier Miguélez and Erwan Paccard. It went over the evolving landscape of automation in logistics, key metrics for success, and the democratization of robotics data for non-technical users.

The logistics industry is undergoing a seismic transformation, with robotics and automation at its forefront. In a recent webinar, industry leaders explored the pressing challenges and opportunities presented by automation in logistics. Here's a summary of the key insights shared.

The Drivers of Automation in Logistics

Automation isn't just a trend—it's a necessity. According to Javier, a veteran with over a decade of experience in mobile robotics helping clients gain efficiency. There are four main drivers behind the push for automation:

1. Efficiency: Both technical and economic efficiency drive the need for automation, reducing operational costs while improving throughput.
2. Labor Shortages: With a scarcity of skilled labor across Europe and the U.S., companies are forced to automate to meet production demands.
3. Safety and Productivity: Automation minimizes workplace accidents while boosting productivity, ensuring a safer, more efficient environment.
4. Scalability and Sustainability: Automation allows companies to scale operations seamlessly, especially during peak periods like Black Friday, without tripling workforce needs.

Challenges in Implementing Automation

The road to automation isn't without obstacles. Javier highlighted two major challenges faced by end-users and providers:

1. Integration with Existing Systems: Many factories and warehouses operate on "brownfield" sites, requiring new technologies to adapt to existing infrastructure and workflows.
2. Knowledge Gaps: End-users often lack expertise in robotics, making it crucial to bridge the gap between operational needs and technological capabilities.

The Role of Data Management in Robotics

Data is the backbone of robotics applications. A key challenge lies in managing the vast amounts of data generated by automated systems. As explained by our VP of Product Erwan, robotics data management involves three critical steps:

• Smart Data Capture: Deploying agents on robots to capture relevant data during predefined scenarios.
• Data Democratization: Making data accessible and understandable for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Accelerated Diagnostics: Streamlining the process of identifying and resolving issues using specific data triggers.

Different Personas using Robotics Data

Erwan then went over the different types of users that need this robotics data to work effectively using Heex. 

1. General User (Non-Expert): This user reviews collected data for abnormalities using an overview dashboard. They can filter data by location, robots, or time to identify problematic areas. If issues arise, they flag them for experts through a simple interface, specifying details like location or robot ID.
2. Robotics Expert: This persona translates the flagged issues into actionable tasks by defining "triggers" – the specific data conditions and thresholds needed to investigate the problem. They set up data capture scenarios, import robot data, and deploy these scenarios to the robots over the air.
3. Developer: When customizations are needed, such as adapting to different robot sensors or systems, the developer writes short code snippets. They address technical specifics, such as capturing sensor data, and push completed tasks back to the robotics expert for deployment.

The system ensures smooth collaboration by allowing each persona to focus on their expertise while seamlessly transferring tasks among them. The workflow progresses from identifying issues to deploying tailored solutions and verifying their effectiveness.

Case Studies in Automation Success

Heex has a couple of real-world examples that demonstrate the value of robotics and intelligent data management:

• Paris Metro Operator (RATP): By integrating a centralized supervision platform, RATP improved system diagnostics and operational availability.
• Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport: A similar solution enhanced scalability and efficiency during peak operational periods.

The Future of Logistics Robotics

Automation is no longer optional; it is the present and future of logistics. Availability, as a key performance indicator, underpins the success of these systems. Companies must prioritize intelligent data management to ensure maximum return on investment.

As Javier aptly put it: "If you don’t measure, you cannot improve. Efficiency starts with data."

What’s Next?

For those intrigued by the evolving landscape of robotics and automation, the upcoming December webinar promises a compelling dialogue between venture capitalists and tech innovators, discussing how to scale robotics businesses.

Stay tuned as we explore the limitless possibilities of robotics in logistics.

Interested in learning more? Reach out to our team or visit our website for the latest updates on robotics solutions transforming the logistics industry.