Industrial Automation Magazine India

In India, the size and height of warehouses are consistently increasing

Published on : Monday 07-08-2023

Manojit Acharya, Managing Director, Jungheinrich India.

The logistics and warehousing sector is greatly influenced by digital transformation. What are the factors driving this change?
The logistics and warehousing sector is witnessing a significant shift due to the impact of Covid-19 on consumer demand in India. To meet the current demands and expectations of consumers, the sector is focusing on improving its services, processes, and efficiency. One of the key drivers for this change is the need to enhance the synergy between incoming and outgoing logistics to meet customer expectations in various industries. Additionally, the adoption of Distribution Centres and Hub warehouses is also contributing to the digital transformation of the sector, enabling more effective utilisation of warehouse facilities to serve our customers better.

What are the technology trends that are revolutionising modern distribution and fulfillment centres?
The modern distribution and fulfillment centres are experiencing a technological revolution that is reshaping their operations. In India, the size and height of warehouses are consistently increasing, demanding thorough logistics planning to make the most of available space. Digitalisation is at the forefront of operating contemporary distribution centres, and the integration of semi-automatic and automatic material handling equipment is essential for efficiency. Jungheinrich offers a comprehensive range of solutions equipped with the latest technology to cater to customers' needs, whether for semi-automatic or fully automated operations. By leveraging Warehouse Management Software, Very Narrow Aisle Truck, and Warehouse Navigation System, we can optimise warehouse operations for our customers. The Logistic Interface facilitates seamless communication between the Warehouse Management Software and the trucks, further enhancing overall efficiency and productivity.

How is robotics in general, AMRs/AGVs in particular, supporting these endeavors?
Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), play a crucial role in supporting various endeavors. Ensuring safe operations is of utmost importance, and AMRs/AGVs contribute significantly to achieving this goal. By utilising AMRs/AGVs for standard operations, warehouses can enhance throughput efficiency and reduce reliance on manual labor, allowing the workforce to focus on more productive tasks. Customers can foresee the benefits of integrating AMRs/AGVs into their operations, helping them predict future warehouse capacity needs. Jungheinrich's AGVs and AMRs offer versatile solutions for lifting and transporting materials within the warehouse. The AGVs are well-suited for standard warehouse tasks, such as moving pallets between conveyor systems and loading/unloading areas. Additionally, they can handle racking, stacking, and de-stacking operations, with a lift height of up to 13 metres. On the other hand, Jungheinrich's AMR, known as Arculee, is ideal for efficiently moving materials within the warehouse or production areas, providing a seamless and automated material handling solution.

What are the software platforms available that facilitate this transformation?
Various software platforms are available to facilitate the transformation of warehouses into efficient and error-free operations. The Warehouse Management System (WMS) software plays a pivotal role in managing all goods, overseeing processes from incoming to outgoing shipments. With this system, various stakeholders within the warehouse can monitor and control each process with 100% efficiency and accuracy. For warehouses with large material handling equipment fleets, the Fleet Management system proves to be highly beneficial. It enables remote management of different types of equipment and allows for the creation of customised dashboards based on truck data, operator performance, idle time, and maintenance activities. In addition, software like Warehouse Navigation is utilised in high-end trucks, enabling semi-automatic operations within warehouse racking. Furthermore, the Logistic Interface Software facilitates seamless communication between the trucks and the WMS. Jungheinrich's WMS solution is adaptable to meet the unique requirements of customers across various industries. Our solution of Very Narrow Aisle trucks, coupled with Warehouse Navigation and Logistic Interface, enhances racking operations, enabling semi-automatic operations at heights of up to 18 meters. This integration optimises warehouse efficiency and streamlines operations for enhanced productivity.