Warehouse picking operations face significant challenges when autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) cannot reach certain corners or handle specialized items. Workers are often forced to push carts through aisles, drastically reducing efficiency. 6 River Systems has addressed this problem with its innovative "Mobile Fulfillment" application, enabling high-efficiency operations even in areas inaccessible to AMRs.
The solution is currently undergoing limited beta testing and is expected to launch commercially in Q3 2023. Its standout feature is the ability to leverage 6 River Systems' powerful cloud-based Fulfillment Execution System (FES) without requiring Chuck robots.
FES: The Brain Behind Warehouse Optimization
The FES serves as the central intelligence for warehouse operations. This cloud-based software service integrates with hardware to optimize, execute, and automate fulfillment workflows. More than just software, it represents a comprehensive solution that coordinates all warehouse resources—including personnel, robots, and equipment—to maximize operational efficiency.
Mobile Fulfillment: Enhanced Flexibility for Picking Operations
Powered by FES, the Mobile Fulfillment application delivers several key advantages:
- Overcoming AMR Limitations: While traditional AMR solutions offer efficiency, they struggle with oversized, heavy, or irregularly shaped items and cannot navigate tight spaces. Mobile Fulfillment bridges these gaps by enabling workers to use Android tablets for picking operations anywhere in the facility.
- Unified Work Platform: Workers can operate on the same FES platform whether using Chuck robots or the Mobile Fulfillment app, eliminating system switching and reducing training requirements. This flexibility allows warehouses to implement the most suitable picking method for each situation, enabling true human-robot collaboration.
- Real-Time Data Integration: The application synchronizes continuously with FES, providing workers with up-to-date order information, inventory status, and task assignments. The system automatically alerts workers about low stock situations, preventing fulfillment errors.
- Optimized Picking Routes: FES calculates the most efficient picking paths based on order details and warehouse layout, minimizing worker travel time. Even without Chuck robots, workers can follow system-generated routes for maximum efficiency.
- Improved Accuracy: The application incorporates barcode scanning to verify picks, significantly reducing human errors that can lead to customer complaints and returns—critical factors for e-commerce operations.
Zebra Android Tablets: Reliable Hardware Foundation
Mobile Fulfillment runs on Zebra's enterprise-grade Android tablets, known for their durability and stable performance in demanding warehouse environments. This hardware selection ensures the application's reliability under real-world operating conditions.
Ideal Applications
The solution particularly benefits:
- Existing 6 River Systems customers seeking to expand picking capabilities
- Facilities with complex layouts containing narrow or hard-to-access areas
- Operations handling oversized, heavy, or irregularly shaped items
- Businesses prioritizing picking accuracy improvements
Future Prospects
6 River Systems' Mobile Fulfillment represents a significant innovation in warehouse picking technology. By overcoming AMR limitations, it delivers flexible, efficient, and accurate picking operations. As e-commerce continues to grow, solutions that enhance picking efficiency and accuracy will become increasingly valuable, positioning Mobile Fulfillment for widespread adoption.
This integrated solution combines cloud-based FES with mobile tablet technology to create new possibilities for warehouse operations. It effectively extends automation to previously inaccessible areas, achieving true human-machine collaboration that boosts efficiency while reducing operational costs.