Autonomous mobile robot (AMR) manufacturer Geek+ has launched a cross-docking solution for grocery supply-chain operations.
The systems has been designed to meet the same-day delivery needs of mainstream e-commerce, retail, fresh food, and other scenarios where shelf lives are short.
Whereas conventional cross-docking approaches can handle volumes of 150-200 cases received and dispatched per hour, Geek+ has claimed that its P800 robots can process inventory at a rate of 300 to 500 cases per hour while retaining order fulfilment accuracy of 99.99%.
Kai Liu, co-founder and VP of picking and smart warehouse, Geek+, said: “AMR-driven cross-docking is a major boon to supermarket operations everywhere.
“By entrusting this crucial step of the supply chain to robotics technology, we can minimise the time foodstuffs spend in storage and maximise the time they are on the shelves where people can enjoy them.”
Geek+’s AMRs are designed to simplify cross-docking operations. Whole pallets are received and directly put away and picked without unstacking. Sophisticated algorithms intelligently manage the inventory, compile order pallets, and then automatically deliver them to collection points.
What’s more, the solution’s flexibility allows temporary storage and order collection to be done simultaneously in the same area. The reduction in space and overall steps between receiving and distribution possible means that one terminal can support more stores.
According to Geek+, the solution can be implemented and operational in two months and two global supermarket chains are using the cross-docking technology in their distribution centers.
