Robotics & Automation 2022 exhibitor Hai Robotics has partnered with Tompkins Robotics to automate the exit process on a unit sortation order fulfilment system.
The collaboration will automate the removal and replacement of order containers using the xChange robot. Based on the HAIPICK A3 fork-lifting autonomous case-handling robot, which adopts fork-lifting picking technology and an 8-layer ultra-high storage design, the system has been created to remove completed orders / full containers and replace them with empty containers.
Additionally, xChange supports multi-form and multi-size goods sortation to order consolidation points to include totes, bins, corrugate cartons and bags.
It has the functions of autonomous navigation, active obstacle avoidance, and automatic charging. The collaboration added the flexibility of the A3 makes it the perfect fit with tSort to deliver the xChange solution.
In a typical order fulfilment process, a unit sorter system has workers take the items out of an accumulation chute or mixed order destination, place the units into unique order containers and then place the containers on a takeaway conveyor.
Now, for the first time, a fully automated unit sortation system can be paired with an autonomous container removal system, further reducing the costs of distribution in a fulfilment centre.
When combined with Tompkins Robotics’ end to end fulfilment capabilities, including goods to person inventory delivery, pick and place induction robotics, tSort and the new tote exchange system, the partnership aims to provide labour savings, better fulfilment control, and the industries quickest return on investment.
Brian Reinhart, vice president of sales and marketing of Hai Robotics US, said: “Hai Robotics and Tompkins have a natural fit within the warehouse. The combination of both organisations products and services allow us to fill gaps around flexibility, speed, and productivity.”
Hai Robotics (Stand 510) is at Robotics and Automation 2022 on 01-02 November at the Coventry Building Society Arena. For more details, go to www.roboticsandautomation.co.uk
