Picking robots
The picking robot is a driverless storage and retrieval machine used in intralogistics. Its main task is to remove products from storage bins and place them in picking bins. The robot picks and delivers the products using a telescopic arm.
Compared to an automated picking machine or manual picking, the picking robot is significantly more flexible in terms of handling time per picking unit.
Robots in order picking systems can have various basic functions. In multi-level picking, robots separate prepared products from unmixed pallets and then place them on a conveyor belt, or they remove individual prepared products from conveyors and stack them on mixed picking pallets according to order.
In single-stage picking, the robot removes the products from unmixed pallets and places them on mixed pallets.
How picking robots work
Most picking robots work with a sensor-controlled image processing system. This detects changes in the position and contours of the packages and transmits this information to the robot controller. This information is evaluated and the movement sequences required for picking are calculated and implemented. Depending on the system, it is even possible to change the gripping tool to suit the products.
During operation, there is a constant exchange of data between the material flow computer and the robot controller. This ensures continuous documentation of the processes and machine positions.
Further information on picking can be found under Picking – Basics.
Image source: © caradoc – Fotolia