DHL Supply Chain Deploys Cobot to Optimize Picking Process

DHL Supply Chain is adding collaborative mobile robots to its host of robotic solutions. Known as “Carter,” the cobot offers the contract logistics provider a flexible warehouse material handling solution to enhance its picking process.

Partnering with Robust.AI to develop and deploy a fleet of warehouse robots, Carter is the first solution to be piloted at a DHL Supply Chain warehouse, with initial deployment planned for later this year.

“Collaborative robots such as Carter provide seamless collaboration with people across picking, putaway, and VAS. They offer warehouses the ability to deploy automation without making substantial material handling changes to their facility,” said Anthony Jules, CEO & founder, Robust.AI. “They also allow warehouses to reduce labor, while optimizing and empowering the labor they intend to keep.” 

Blending human instincts with robotic strength and speed

Cobots like Carter are gaining in popularity in warehouse settings that rely on humans and robots working closely together. According to Sally Miller, chief information officer and global digital transformation officer, DHL Supply Chain, tasks like order picking, kitting, packing, and sorting benefit from human dexterity and decision-making combined with robotic strength and speed.

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“Carter thrives in dynamic environments where workflows change frequently due to seasonality, promotions, or product variations,” she added, further noting that these types of robotic solutions can also budget-friendly. “Carter’s flexible and relatively affordable nature makes it accessible to a wider range of warehouses compared to large-scale automation systems.”

Carter can handle a wide range of tasks, including:

• Navigation assistance, leading the user to the next pick location;
• Pick-to-light, showing the user where the next item is located; and
• Put-to-light, showing the user where the next item should go.

The robot can also alternate and suggest different workflows as order profiles change throughout the day.

“While there are other collaborative robots like Carter that have been developed, some of which we use in our warehouses, Carter differs with its human-centric design, dynamic coordination, and no-code interface,” said Miller.

Additionally, Carter uses artificial intelligence (AI) technology to learn and adapt to real-time warehouse conditions, optimizing workflows and maximizing productivity. The robot’s embedded sensors and AI capabilities will also generate valuable data to optimize warehouse layouts, staffing, and inventory management. 

Carter will join DHL Supply Chain’s strong list of robotic solutions, including a robotic arm developed for carton unloading of trucks, automated guided vehicles such as their autonomous forklift, and a variety of autonomous mobile robots that assist with picking and moving cartons around the warehouse.

“At DHL Supply Chain, we’re constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in logistics,” said Miller. “Partnering with Robust.AI, a pioneer in AI-powered robotics, allows us to continue redefining what’s possible within the four walls of the warehouse. This partnership will help us to create a smarter, safer, and more reliable supply chain one intelligent robot at a time.”