Human-robot Collaboration in Warehousing: a Cloud-powered Revolution

Abstract

This case study aims to understand the challenges faced by bigger warehouses in verticals such as logistics and warehousing, in the supply chain. It deconstructs the Warehouse Automation Management (WMS) technology and how it has evolved since its inception. It delves deeper into the problem statement that is majorly focused on the impact of COVID-19 on warehouse operations. Challenges such as labor shortage, capacity restrictions, health and safety protocols, and large inventory management became more prominent and affected the business operations. Additionally, this case study analyzes the solution i.e. Warehouse Management System in a holistic approach. It is a user-centric and human-driven solution, rather than being solely robot-oriented. Furthermore, It talks about the collaboration of the latest technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, IoT (Internet of Things), Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), Blockchain, etc. The culmination of all these technologies and keeping the user-centric approach in mind was an innovation of a new technology called Cobots i.e. Collaborative Robots. These robots are automated by nature and are close to humans for their operations, not for the physical aspect of a task but for the strategic aspect of it. In addition, extensive Primary Research was conducted for this case study through various research methods such as in-depth interviews and surveys of the core stakeholders of the industry.