Robotics and Automation
Article | November 12, 2021
Robotics industry growth has accelerated rapidly across several industries. It has aided manufacturers in overcoming numerous barriers related to real-time communication, workplace safety, and overall manufacturing cost and timeliness. However, if we trace its history back to 1961 when George Charles Devol introduced the first robot, dubbed 'UNIMATE,' it has exponentially grown and utilized across sectors to make operations more effortless, precise, and faster.
“As technology takes over and enhances many of the processes we used to handle with manual labor, we are freed up to use our minds creatively, which leads to bigger and better leaps in innovation and productivity.”
– Matt Mong, VP Market Innovation and Project Business Evangelist at Adeaca.
However, the industry has seen snags or difficult times due to market fluctuations, unfavorable situations, and the need to remain competitive in the drive for expansion. To thoroughly understand the robotics industry, let us examine each component that surrounds it.
Industrial Robotics Global Market Size
According to recent Allied Market Research studies, the global industrial robotics market was worth $37,875 million in 2016 and is expected to reach $70,715 million by 2023, rising at a 9.4% compound annual growth from 2017 to 2023.
Industrial Robotics Market Analysis
The global industrial robotics market is primarily driven by a global increase in labor costs, which has compelled firms to replace human labor with robots. As a result, Asia and Europe are the world's fastest-growing areas, with top companies such as ABB, Fanuc, KUKA, Kawasaki, and Yaskawa Electric Corporation headquartered in the region.
The global market of robotics has been segmented by its type, industry, and function.
Type
Industry
Function
Articulated
Automotive
Soldering and Welding
Cartesian
Electrical & Electronics
Materials Handling
SCARA
Healthcare & Medicine
Assembling & Disassembling
Cylindrical
Rubber & Plastics
Painting and Dispensing
Others if any
Machinery & Metals
Cutting and Processing
Food & Beverages
Milling
Precision & Optics
Others if any
Others if any
Industries That Are Pioneering the Use of Robotics
As we have observed, the global robotic market will continue to rise in the future years. Therefore, let us examine which industries will extend their use of robotics in their operations.
Healthcare & Medicine
Medical robots help surgeons optimize hospital logistics and free up the working staff to focus on patients. In the healthcare field, robots are revolutionizing surgery by speeding supply delivery and disinfection and freeing up time for doctors to interact with their patients.
da Vinci System – A General Surgical Robot
The da Vinci System is a surgical robot that focuses on a wide range of urological, bariatric, and gynecological surgical treatments. In addition, Stryker's MAKO System also specializes in orthopedic surgery, specifically partial and total knee replacements.
The da Vinci SP system is cleared for use in the United States exclusively for single-port urological procedures, lateral oropharyngectomy (often referred to as radical tonsillectomy), and tongue base excision.
Law Enforcement
Police robots are meant to gain access to areas inaccessible or dangerous to first responders, and they are capable of manipulating items and gathering data using several technologies. It encompasses robots capable of operating in various conditions and displaying a range of data and communication capabilities.
Agriculture & Food Industry
Farm equipment is now routinely equipped with sensors that utilize machine learning and robotics to identify weeds, compute the appropriate quantity of herbicide to spray, or learn to detect and pick strawberries, for instance.
Additionally, in the food business, robotics has been used to do repetitive tasks such as picking and placing food items and cutting and slicing food items during any given food item. For instance, the modern bakery business uses robotics to perform traditional craft skills and produce any product in large quantities while maintaining high quality and hygiene standards.
Transportation
The transportation sector is highly leveraging robotics. The powerful transport capability, advanced control technology, and sensing precision are some of the benefits that make the transportation robots widely utilized in this sector. These benefits from robotics help the sector convey various commodities in factories, restaurants, and medical institutions, among other locations.
Manufacturing
Robots are employed in manufacturing to do repeated jobs and streamline the overall assembly process. Additionally, robots and humans can also collaborate on product making. Robots can replace humans for hazardous tasks or processes that need large quantities of materials, which might be hazardous for a human employee to handle.
Factors Sustaining the Growth of the Robotics Industry
Reduces Manufacturing Costs: Robotics application in all industries reduces the overall manufacturing process running costs.
Improves Product Quality: The precision of robotics throughout the manufacturing process helps produce high-quality items that meet target client needs.
Offers Competitive Market: Increased income due to utilizing the benefits of robotics applications makes any industry more competitive.
Speed-ups Production Time: Robotics speeds up production and helps manufacturers increase output.
Offers Task or Process Flexibility: Robotics can weld, cast, mold, assemble, machine, transfer, inspect, load, and unload items, among other duties. So, it gives the manufacturer process flexibility.
Reduces Excessive Use and Waste of Production Materials: Robotics employs the exact quantity of material required for the manufactured product, reducing waste and overuse of materials.
Offers a Safe Working Place: Robotics improves employee health and safety by performing tasks that humans find risky. For example, in the chemical industry, a human employee may not do a hazardous task. In such instances, robots can replace people.
Final Words
The rise of the robotics industry has accelerated dramatically, and it is now spreading its wings across industries. Research firm IDC provided a projection for the commercial robot market, forecasting that the market will exceed $53 billion by 2022, with a compound annual growth rate of more than 20%. In addition, several advantages of robotics such as safety, productivity, uniformity, and perfection are pushing its expansion and making it an essential element of industry 4.0.
FAQs
Why are robots the future of the manufacturing industry?
The use of robots in manufacturing has improved process efficiency and product quality. As a result, robots are gaining favor in production and becoming the future of manufacturing.
Which industries make the most use of robotics?
Healthcare, agriculture, food, and manufacturing are the industries that are embracing robotics to get the most out of it.
How is manufacturing utilizing robotics?
Manufacturing uses robotics for repetitive tasks. This helps in the reduction of errors and human efforts. It also improves production efficiency.
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Article | November 23, 2020
Out of necessity manufacturers are learning to leverage online selling. Digital selling channels recover losses from in-person sales methodologies creating a new channel to serve online customers.
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Operations
Article | February 10, 2022
Employing Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) is the most effective method of streamlining and simplifying warehouse operations. Expanding businesses with immeasurable stock require well-designed warehousing systems that automate and precisely track all warehouse operations.
“Trade isn’t about goods. Trade is about information. Goods sit in the warehouse until information moves them.”
- C. J. Cherryh
The system that enables you to track everything in your warehouse, from inventory to staff activities, is the ideal example of a warehouse management system. In this article, we'll look at three different types of WMS and the criteria to consider when selecting the best WMS for your warehouse. Additionally, we will examine some examples and a comparison to assist you in selecting the best WMS.
Types of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Standalone
A standalone warehouse management system is the first of the list of WMS types. It provides features that make day-to-day warehouse operations more efficient. Companies may use these systems to track and regulate the flow of goods in and out of warehouses. This also simplifies complex warehouse operations such as receiving, put-away, replenishment, expiration date tracking, cycle counting, slotting, packing, auditing, and shipping. Standalone warehouse management systems may also include advanced features such as cross-docking and advanced analytics.
Supply Chain Execution Modules
WMS systems are a subset of supply chain management systems (SCM). Software for supply chain management may be used to handle everything from vendor relationships to corporate operations to risk assessment. Its primary objectives are to automate inventory management, material procurement, and product lifecycle management.
These warehouse management systems demand investment in supply chain planning tools with warehousing expertise. This is a popular option because it enables 3PL organizations to explore the substantial advantages of SCM. Combining WMS with other apps enables a high level of integration across various segments of the organization. It enables complete supply chain management, unlike standalone systems that focus exclusively on warehousing.
Integrated ERP
ERP is a complete software solution that integrates multiple systems' features. It includes applications for supply chain management, accounting, customer relationship management, human resources, and more. ERP is a solid choice for companies wishing to enhance their software systems. Businesses aspiring to stay ahead of competition and boost ROI should consider this powerful supply chain execution system with scalability.
Warehouse management is not just a key component of integrated ERP systems. This must be kept in mind while purchasing ERP software. Make sure the system you select has warehouse management features.
This form of warehouse management system is expensive. Due to its wide scope, ERP may replace many other software programs and consolidate activities. If you're unsatisfied with existing software solutions or wish to integrate them into one system, ERP may be the ideal alternative for you.
WMS supply chain modules and ERP integration allow warehouse management as part of a platform with greater capabilities. The first choice is whether to invest in a specialist WMS or a hybrid offering. The answer is based on your company's size and objectives.
Pointers to Consider While Selecting a WMS
Functions: Each WMS performs a distinct function. Certain WMS are tailored to particular types of businesses. Therefore, it is vital to know what you want and select accordingly.
Cost: It is the second critical factor to consider when selecting a WMS, keeping in mind the financial aspect. The cost of a WMS is determined by its complexity and the functions it provides.
Customer Needs: If you are using a WMS, it is important to be aware of its shortcomings. Based on that, you may determine customer needs and pick WMS functionalities to provide the best service. This point is about selecting and considering WMS functionalities from the perspective of the client.
Warehouse Size: WMS complexity grows with warehouse size since bigger warehouses require more features. So you must pick the functionalities based on the warehouse size.
Warehouse Management System Examples
NetSuite WMS
NetSuite is a cloud-based suite of enterprise resource planning and accounting modules that is available in a variety of versions geared towards various client sizes. The multi-country, multi-currency edition is available as a separate module named OneWorld. NetSuite is known for its easy end-to-end functionality, which spans sales estimations through customer collection, as well as its end-to-end workflow management capabilities. NetSuite connects with shipping providers to provide unified order processing and fulfillment tracking, as well as a comprehensive audit trail.
Additionally, inventory and payroll administration, human capital management, financial planning, and revenue management are some other functions available. Additionally, NetSuite may be integrated with CRM and e-commerce platforms.
While NetSuite's comprehensive suite of services is geared for medium-sized firms and enterprises, a system tailored to the needs of smaller businesses may be constructed. Because it is modular and highly adjustable, the cost of implementation varies significantly based on the buyer's requirements.
Features
Pros
Cons
Mobile RF barcode scanning
Easy to use
It comes with some ERP features but not an effective ERP solution
Mobile Cycle Counting
Offers guarantee
Certain key business operations (e.g., sales tax/VAT) are absent
Returns authorization receipt
Contact information is visible
Warehouse map
Has third party plugins
Order management
Wireless warehousing
Barcode tracking
Thorough standard reports
Shipping management
Excellent at tracking financials and budgeting
Workforce and load management
Handle multiple business units
Fishbowl Inventory
Fishbowl is inventory management software that is suited for small to medium-sized businesses, particularly those who use Quickbooks. It functions as a robust asset tracking tool that enables users to manage assets, goods, and stockpiles more conveniently and efficiently.
Because Fishbowl and Quickbooks are integrated seamlessly, they share the same information, which enables you to receive a more comprehensive and precise picture of your company's warehouse health. This also translates into thousands of dollars in savings because adopting Fishbowl ensures that your initial investment in Quickbooks is protected while gaining the benefits of integration.
Features
Pros
Cons
Integration with QuickBooks
Offers free trial
It comes with some ERP features but not an effective ERP solution
Integration with QuickBooks
Sales and buy orders can be generated in any currency
It comes with some ERP features but not an effective ERP solution
Generate work orders
Provides many plugin products
Doesn’t support native shipping and e-commerce module
Inventory and asset tracking across locations
On-premise installation is not available
Real-time inventory updates
Pick, pack and ship items
New barcode creation
Default and custom reports
3PL Warehouse Manager
3PL Central is a cloud-based solution. It has a contemporary user interface and clever workflow functionality. John Watkins and Nancy Rohman launched 3PL Central in 2006. They were operating/having their own warehouse at the time. As a result, this system was developed by warehouse management professionals.
The 3PL warehouse manager comes with multiple features that are ideal for smooth businesses. 3PL warehouse manager is a software solution designed for small and medium-sized teams. It includes a variety of essential features such as real-time data, order management, product rotation/shelf life management, inventory management, and reporting and analytics.
Features
Pros
Cons
Barcoding/Serial Tracking
Easy to expand the system
This system needs training to operate
Product Rotation/Shelf Life
Easy to expand the software
For small warehouses/organizations.
Reporting & Analytics
User-friendly
Lack of support
Picking & Packing
Value for money
Third Party Plugins
Effective and useful to scan barcodes
Wireless Warehouse
Workforce/Load Management
Real-Time Data
Order Management
WMS Comparison Table
NetSuit WMS
Fishbowl Inventory
3PL Warehouse Manager
Overall User Ratings
4/5
4/5
4/5
Ease of Use
4/5
4/5
4/5
Value for Money
3.5/5
4/5
4/5
Ideal Customer Size
Small, Medium, Large
Small, Medium, Large
Small, Medium, Large
Free Trial
Not available. Free product demo is available
14 Days
Not available. Free demo is available
Best Features
Strategy definition for put away and picking up.
Offers multiple plugins and multi-currency conversions.
Centralized management for multiple warehouses and customer data.
Pricing
Starting from: 499.00/month
Pricing model: Subscription
Starting from: $4395.00
Pricing model: One Time License
Not provided by vendor. Connect with the service provider for pricing
Final Words
The industry of warehouse management system software is brimming with alternatives. Buyers seeking the finest WMS must first analyze their business needs and then shortlist the WMS. You may use the points mentioned above to choose the best WMS for you. Of course, the examples provided in this article are not extensive, but they are the finest. However, examine your requirements carefully and select the appropriate WMS.
FAQ
What is a good WMS?
A good WMS must have these nine qualities: maximum functionality, ease of use, complete transaction management, flexibility, useful, easy-to-read metrics, seamless ERP integration, proven track record, and value for ROI.
What is the main goal of warehouse management?
The main goal of any WMS is to assist in ensuring that goods and commodities are moved through warehouses in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible.
What are the warehouse types?
There are different types of warehouses, such as distribution centers, public warehouses, private warehouses, bonded warehouses, climate-controlled warehouses, and smart warehouses.
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Industrial 4.0
Article | January 14, 2021
Disruptive digital technology will transform every industry in one way or another. The manufacturing sector is absolutely no exception, having spent the last decade bouncing back from being affected by a down economy.
Yet despite the coronavirus pandemic throwing a wrench in what was poised to be one of the best economic years in recent history, the manufacturing industry is still steadily rising thanks to a multitude of technological advances, and there is plenty more innovation to come.
Whether you are a leader or an employee in manufacturing, it is imperative you implement my Anticipatory Leader System – which in this case focuses on the Hard Trends affecting the manufacturing sector both inside and out – in order to pre-solve problems that can come with those Hard Trends and turn disruption and change into opportunity and advantage.
Trends and turn disruption and change into opportunity and advantage.
Next-Generation Manufacturing Principles
In the last decade, manufacturing in the United States faced intense international competition, increasing market volatility and complexity, a declining workforce, and a host of other challenges.
But the industry overcame said obstacles not only by adapting new technology, but by applying Next-Generation Manufacturing Principles I have discussed in the past.
First, the industry anticipated customer needs, which in its own way was manufacturers focusing on those aforementioned Hard Trends – or future certainties – from my Anticipatory Leader System. Having been able to see both needs and opportunities before they happen, manufacturers then were able to innovate around their core competencies, and more frequently.
In order to increase innovation, a focus on collaboration rather than cooperation was needed, using a mindset based on abundance while incorporating both your employees and competitors in the innovation process. Any problems that arose during innovation were pre-solved by again using those same Hard Trends to determine what was solvable before it became a bigger issue. From there, manufacturers communicated the strategies they developed.
Finally, de-commoditization was key in getting us to where we are headed today in manufacturing, adding value creatively to a product or service in order to increase margins.
Industry 4.0: Manufacturing and Digital Technology
Although the manufacturing sector has risen from the ashes of where it was by way of those six principles, that does not mean that companies can now rest on their laurels with a wait-and-see mentality, especially into this post-pandemic “new normal” we are anticipating.
There are specific technological advancements in our world today that have already made themselves known in other industries; however, without question, they are weaving their way into the world of manufacturing just as quickly, redefining the manufacturing sector with the term “Industry 4.0.”
Defined as “smart factories,” the “4.0” of Industry 4.0 is representative of the “fourth-generation industrial revolution” in which the industry adapts several different technological advancements to become more streamlined and, most importantly, continuously innovative.
Here are a few advancements to be aware of that will only increase their disruption as part of the Industry 4.0 future:
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Coupled with 5G connectivity and machine learning, Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be one of the biggest transformations the manufacturing sector will see. This level of technology is already transforming inventory management and supply chain visibility while simultaneously reducing warehouse costs and improving forecast accuracy.
While this does not mean a sentient robotic being will replace jobs, it does refer to a computer system that has the capability to recognize trends and interpret logical solutions to help human individuals in the manufacturing sector do their jobs better by providing them with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) is improved also by low latency connectivity provided to us by 5G networks, allowing manufacturing companies to monitor in real time how their operations are going. This includes, but is not limited to, safety measures on the manufacturing floor, streamlining processes, and saving money.
These insights were never before as easily accessible as they are today, allowing organizations access to valuable data to help them change or optimize areas internally and, as mentioned above, pre-solve problems before they become catastrophic disruptions.
Virtual Reality (VR)
Virtual Reality (VR) headsets are commonly marketed and perceived as strictly gaming technology; however, there is a ton to be done in the way of gamifying manufacturing training and even the future of working remotely in manufacturing.
Let’s suppose you need to train a new sales employee on how to use a device still in production; what would be the most engaging, hands-on way to do so without having the person physically use it? Implementing an immersive experience of it using VR technology would be a more interactive, gamified way to do so, rather than having him or her sit and memorize a user manual from cover to cover.
Stay Anticipatory to Stay Ahead
An important way for the manufacturing sector to continue on its upward trajectory, even following COVID-19, is to implement my Anticipatory Organization Model, which calls you to pay attention to those above Hard Trend technological advancements – future certainties that are currently happening – and pre-solve any problems they may bring to your workforce.
With automation becoming a dominating Hard Trend as well, always be sure to work with the technology afforded to us by the Three Digital Accelerators – computing power/processing power, bandwidth, and storage – and become a positive disruptor in the industry as opposed to the disrupted.
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