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Vanderlande And AWL Join Forces To Develop Robotic Small-Item Picker

Logistics Tech Outlook | Wednesday, November 02, 2022

 Veghel– Vanderlande launched a new robot picking solution – Auto Induct – at the Parcel & Post Expo 2022 on 18 October in Frankfurt, Germany. Developed in collaboration with machine builder and robotics expert, AWL, Auto Induct allows for the robotic picking of small items from a bulk flow of parcels.

The partnership combines Vanderlande’s unparalleled knowledge of parcel handling systems and processes with AWL’s industry-leading expertise in robotics. Auto Induct will help carrier, delivery and parcel companies cope with rising volumes of small parcels, as well as labour shortages. It will also allow them to increase the flexibility and scalability of their operations, while increasing capacity.

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The smart solution is designed to pick items weighing between 20g and 5kg, and place them on a belt for further sortation – this is known as the “singulation process”. Auto Induct is configured for parcel companies that have a dedicated line for smalls. Results from testing show that the robot can pick up to 1,500 items per hour.

Auto Induct ensures that each parcel goes through the singulation and sortation process in the most effective and accurate way possible. Its unique functionalities have been proven in a controlled environment and are being tested in an operational facility in collaboration with a leading global parcel company.

“We’re delighted to be collaborating with AWL on this innovative new solution,” says Mike Christman, Vanderlande’s Executive Vice-President Parcel Solutions. “As well as complementing each other in terms of expertise and technical know-how, we share an open and honest working culture. This is helping us to deal with the challenges and complexities of this exciting project.”

“Auto Induct delivers both companies’ first robot solution designed specifically for the parcel sector,” adds Arjen Vos, Director Strategy & Development from AWL. “Results from development and testing have been positive, and all our hard work is paving the way for a commercial launch in the second half of 2023.”

 Company profile of Vanderlande

Vanderlande is a market-leading, global partner for future-proof logistic process automation in the warehousing, airports and parcel sectors. Its extensive portfolio of integrated solutions – innovative systems, intelligent software and life-cycle services – results in the realisation of fast, reliable and efficient automation technology.

The company focuses on the optimisation of its customers’ business processes and competitive positions. Through close cooperation, it strives for the improvement of their operational activities and the expansion of their logistical achievements.

Vanderlande’s warehousing solutions are the first choice for many of the largest global e-commerce players and retailers in food, fashion and general merchandise across the globe.

The company helps them to fulfil their promise of same-day delivery for billions of orders, with nine of the 15 largest global food retailers relying on its efficient and reliable solutions.

As a global partner for future-proof airport solutions, Vanderlande’s market-leading baggage handling systems and passenger solutions are capable of moving over 4 billion pieces of baggage around the world per year. These are active in more than 600 airports, including 12 of the world’s top 20.

Vanderlande is also a leading supplier of process automation solutions that address the challenges in the parcel market. More than 52 million parcels are sorted by its systems every day, which have been installed for the world’s leading parcel handling companies.

Established in 1949, Vanderlande has more than 9,000 employees, all committed to moving its customers’ businesses forward at diverse locations on every continent. With a consistently increasing turnover of 2.4 billion euros, it has established a worldwide reputation over the past seven decades as a global partner for future-proof logistic process automation.

Vanderlande was acquired in 2017 by Toyota Industries Corporation, which will help it to continue its sustainable profitable growth. The two companies have a strong strategic match, and the synergies include cross-selling, product innovations and research and development.

For more information about Vanderlande, its products and technology, as well as career opportunities, please visit www.vanderlande.com.

Company profile of AWL

AWL is a market-leading robotic system integrator with over 30 years of experience in the automotive and metal processing industry, delivering sophisticated welding, assembly, and material handling machines. In 2019, AWL entered the material handling market and has since delivered more than 100 robotic systems for sorting, tote handling, and depalletizing processes. AWL’s expertise lies in turnkey solutions incorporating robot-guided AI vision, custom end-of-arm tooling, and a variety of modular offerings. AWL is a private company with over 750 employees worldwide, supporting its customers all over the world with facilities in the Netherlands, Czech Republic, China, Mexico, the United States, and the United Kingdom. AWL ensures its customers’ global productivity by maximising their processes and operations with smart robotic solutions.

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