URL (Universal Robotic Labeling Machine) is a high-speed automatic labeling technology that improves label placement and adhesion to irregular surfaces. Its innovation lies in its ability to apply different types and sizes of labels, and on different types of irregularly shaped products. On the one hand, it allows the application of smaller labels, thus reducing the package size; On the other hand, it allows labels to be placed on paper bags, even irregularly shaped ones, or placed directly in product packaging for transport, thereby eliminating the need for additional packaging and helping to reduce waste on the part of the customer. The URL machine represents a significant advance in our implementation technology. It improves the entire labeling process, contributes to our sustainability goals, and ultimately benefits our employee roles, customer experience, and the environment.
2. Universal Item Classifier (UIS)
GCC960C102 The Universal Sorter (UIS) ensures the efficient sorting of thousands of products to the shipping location each day. In summary, the system uses advanced wireless technology to move shuttles called iBOTS, which move in different directions, carry these items and deliver each to a bin – already matched to its final destination. This meticulous planning ensures the correct matching of the right items with the appropriate bins. UIS prioritizes safety and ergonomics in the workplace. By incorporating smart technology, it minimizes manual labor for employees, contributing to a safer workplace. In addition, the UIS offers space-saving sorting capabilities: the system can accommodate up to 40 different bins in a compact space, corresponding to 40 different destinations. This allows us to reduce the size of the building, thereby reducing our footprint and energy consumption.
3. Automatic Container Retrieval Device (ATR)
The Automatic Turnover Box Sorter (ATR) complements the UIS (General Purpose Item Sorter) in terms of process optimization, improved employee safety and ergonomics. The shuttle attached to the UIS moves on a track along the full length of the UIS wall and receives notifications when the turnover tank is full. In response, the shuttle moved towards the full turnover box, replacing it with an empty one using a special jig. Upon completion, UIS will continue to deliver the project to that location, seamlessly repeating the process. By automating the turnover box replacement process, ATR reduces manual operations and contributes to a leaner, more ergonomic workflow with fewer steps and less moving work for employees while increasing efficiency.
4. Bag Container Matrix Sorter (BCMS)
Bag Containerized Matrix Sorters (BCMS) optimize our sorting capabilities by identifying and grouping packages with the same final destination within FC, providing ergonomic and space-saving sorting capabilities in a compact footprint. The system innovatively classifies packages into shipping bags ready for last-mile delivery. This avoids unnecessary double contact of the same parcel in the FC and sorting center, optimising operational efficiency while reducing manpower.
5. Automatic Guided Vehicle (AGC)
The Automated Guided Vehicle (AGC) is a flat, wheeled autonomous robot that slides under a stack of empty turnover boxes and automatically transports them around the FC. This reduces the need for employees to push or carry heavy objects over long distances. Sensors on the bottom of the robot navigate themselves by reading tapes on the floor, while security scanners detect if there are any people or obstacles in the way so that the AGC can slow down or stop until the path is clear.
6. Planar Sorter Robot Sensing (FSRI)
Robots like everything to be in order, and FSRI is a clever tool kit that ensures packages move through FC at a smooth, steady and orderly pace. FSRI took over repetitive tasks to make life easier for employees. With smart vision sensors, it can spot the package no matter where it is on the conveyor belt, and a nappy robotic arm swoops down to pick it up and deliver it to its destination. In addition, the robot’s “hands” use suction cups to gracefully handle various packages.
7. Robot Tote Palletizer (RTP)
GCC960C102 Robot Toth palletizer (RTP) technology is an essential part of the palletizing process. It has two robotic arms working in coordination, condensed into several neat turnover boxes, double pallets with precision and care. The first arm places three – or four-tiered turnover boxes on a single pallet, while the second arm stacks two pallets on top of each other to form a single unit. RTP then straps everything securely together and labels it for shipping, before employees safely move the double stack onto a trailer headed to the dock. It’s a complex set of operations that help enable a safer, more ergonomic process that ultimately frees employees from repetitive heavy lifting.
8. Amazon’s automated packaging technology
Our automated packaging technology scans the item and calculates the amount of paper needed to pack it quickly and accurately, customizing the right paper bag on demand. The machine packs individual items such as video games, sports equipment and office supplies in special paper bags that are durable and flexible. Using heat sealing technology, it secures each bag and minimizes empty space. By packing items using 100% recyclable lightweight paper packaging, a tailor-made package that requires no stuffing, the machine helps avoid more than 26 grams of packaging per shipment on average. The lightweight paper bags Amazon uses are 90 percent lighter than similar-sized cartons.
9. Amazon ground robots
The Amazon robot floor is the heart of the fulfillment center. It transforms inventory management while prioritizing the safety and comfort of employees, in a space where technology works harmoniously with people to store and pick through millions of items. Thousands of AR (Amazon robots) effectively drive units and navigate under yellow pods, taking them to ergonomic workstations and back to inventory storage areas. This eliminates the need for employees to travel long distances when transporting items.