Dutch-based material handling and logistics automation company Vanderlande has unveiled a new robotic small-item picking solution, developed in collaboration with machine builder and robotics expert AWL, with the ability to pick up to 1,500 items per hour.
The solution, called Auto Induct, was launched at Parcel+Post Expo in Frankfurt, Germany this week, and allows for the robotic picking of small items from a bulk flow of parcels. It is set for commercial launch in the second half of 2023.
According to Vanderlande, Auto Induct will help carrier, delivery and parcel companies cope with rising volumes of small parcels, as well as labour shortages. It will also allow them to increase the flexibility and scalability of their operations, while increasing capacity.
Dedicated to smalls
The solution has been designed to pick items weighing between 5kg and 20g and place them on a belt for further sortation – this is known as the singulation process. Auto Induct is configured for parcel companies that have a dedicated line for smalls.
Auto Induct ensures that each parcel goes through the singulation and sortation process in the most effective and accurate way possible. Its unique functionalities have been proven in a controlled environment and are being tested in an operational facility in collaboration with a leading global parcel company.
“We’re delighted to be collaborating with AWL on this innovative new solution,” said Mike Christman, Vanderlande’s Executive Vice-President of Parcel Solutions. “As well as complementing each other in terms of expertise and technical know-how, we share an open and honest working culture. This is helping us to deal with the challenges and complexities of this exciting project.”
“Auto Induct delivers both companies’ first robot solution designed specifically for the parcel sector,” added Arjen Vos, Director of Strategy and Development at AWL. “Results from development and testing have been positive, and all our hard work is paving the way for a commercial launch in the second half of 2023.”
New digital suite
Also during Parcel+Post Expo, Vanderlande launched a new data analytics solution for parcel firms, called PACE Digital Suite. The solution enables operators of parcel hubs to better understand how their sorting systems are performing. It helps with maintenance planning and decision-making during daily operations thanks to the better use of data.
