Warehouse processes are increasingly turning to automated robots to lower labour costs and increase output. While robots aren’t a new addition to factory life, General Motors installed robots in 1962, with the first patent filed in 1954, it is estimated that in the next decade up to 87% of warehouse jobs will be taken out of human hands.
These first robots were only suitable for a small number of jobs, such as lifting heavy machinery or welding, due to their size and abilities. Over the last few decades technological developments, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) or the Internet of Things (IoT), have lead to autonomous machines taking on a lot more responsibility in the overall warehouse process. Lower error rates, increased warehouse safety and adaptable workforce.
As well as continuing to supply Returnable Transit Packaging solutions to a number of retailers and warehouse operations, Plastic Mouldings Northern Ltd has been providing finished parts for the use of the Automated Robots being used in large scale picking and packing operations.
The parts produced are used on Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) which transport inventory around the warehouse for picking and sorting as well as conducting daily inventory checks. In consultation with the technology companies producing the bots, we have developed and manufactured machine covers and side panels which protect the robots from everyday dirt and dust as well as damage to their internal electronics in the event of accidents.
This is one of many exciting vacuum forming projects currently running at PMN Ltd, where our vacuum forming capabilities have afforded us an excellent reputation as a supplier of customised and finished parts. Machine investment means we are one of the few UK based manufacturers capable of forming in sizes up to 3.5m x 1.5m, this enables us to produce products quicker and more cost-effectively, ultimately combating rising costs.
The development of this business has complimented our ongoing supply of tote boxes, industrial strength containers, plastic pallets and bespoke trays, dividers and lids to a wide range companies, big and small, across a host of industries since our inception in 2002.
If you are looking for vacuum forming for an existing or upcoming project and need some advice give our team a call on 01388 777 700 or email us on sales@pmn-ltd.co.uk.
You can read an article on ‘How To Vacuum Form’ here
You can read an article on different plastics used in vacuum forming here.
You can also find out more about what we do and keep up to date with all our latest news by following us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Main picture courtesy of roboticsandautomationnews.com. Video courtesy of Business Insider and YouTube.
