H2: The power of data
We live in an increasingly data-driven world. Of course, this also applies to the world of logistics. The integration of sensor technology within warehouses allows the collection of large amounts of data that can be turned in strategic information that help companies optimize logistic processes.
Data driven logistics is one of the major trends characterizing industry 4.0. The benefits can be many: real-time monitoring, alignment between supply and demand, effective planning of individual activities.
To this end, SICK offers a wide-ranging strategic approach to generate value from data via sensors, track and trace systems and software platforms for analysis and calculation. This enables smart logistics along the entire value chain.
From a software perspective, SICK has developed several solutions. One example is Package Analytics. The platform allows sensor data collection, two-way communication with the other logistic platforms and analysis through advanced segmentation techniques. This makes it possible to evaluate operational performance in real time, identify possible critical issues and improve operations planning.
H2: An interconnected system
The interconnection between the different “souls” of the warehouse is nothing new but, as businesses move towards digitalization, the integration of hardware and software components is a competitive factor for market growth.
The first step towards digital transformation involves sensors. They are the beating heart that enables 360-degree vision of all the assets, from palletizing and sorting systems to automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs).
A second level consists of software components for configuring and monitoring sensors. In this field, SICK offers different solutions, such as the product configuration platform Sopas Engineering Tool or the new FieldEcho software , for devices connected via IO-Link. Or SARA, the augmented reality system that enables visualization of the data detected by the sensors within the real operating environment.
Artificial Intelligence represents a further level. Today it is possible to integrate deep learning solutions into sensors in order to recognize data patterns, identify historical trends and take predictive action to constantly improve the final process output. According to the aforementioned Robotics Business Review research, 75% of respondents will implement Artificial Intelligence solutions within the warehouse by 2030 compared to 11% in 2019.
H2: The value of intralogistics
Intelligent intralogistics is increasingly central to warehouse logistics from a 4.0 perspective. Speed, precision, and accuracy are the key words that characterize this "world."
To this end, the latest generation of autonomous guided vehicles and autonomous mobile robots (AGV/AMR) represent an important new frontier. Autonomous driving is enabled by sensors, that allow tracking and obstacle detection as well as shelf identification.
These advantages can be realized with
outdoorScan3 safety
laser scanner, designed for outdoor automation. It is characterised by high productivity through human-machine collaboration, continuous and reliable material flow even in changing weather conditions, and effective error resolution through simplified access to diagnostic data.
