Exoteca globally operated company that develops scalable robotics systems for intralogistics and realized as a warehouse automation solution, has presented the next generation of its Skypod system in Paris today. With an improved performance, higher storage density and extended software functions, the solution sets new standards in logistics automation.
The next generation of the Skypod system offers numerous innovations, including a more compact skypod robot, work stations for robot-to-robot communication and a goods receipt and output system, called Exchanger. Combined with the new software functions, this increases the throughput at a single work station by 50 percent and at the same time increases the storage density by up to 30 percent compared to the previous version.
The decisive difference between the next generation of Skypod is the ability to manage both and case picking, which means that Exototec is able to address the multichannel needs of its customers with a single solution. The system now also supports a number of logistics functions that traditionally require external devices and complex subsystems. This not only enables customers to simplify the flow of goods through the warehouse, but also significantly reduce the system footprint by reducing the need for conveyor belts, sorting systems, external storage and packing stations.
The main functions of the next generation of Skypod at a glance:
- Native Buffer: The next generation of the Skypod system enables the internal interim storage of partially closed or completed orders. These are automatically stored on the shelves until they are required for shipping or further processing. This significantly reduces the need for external buffer systems or provision zones.
- Strict Sequencing: The next generation of Skypod offers precise sequencing. Group robots and deliver them to the Exchanger, which prepares them for forwarding, in the desired order. This enables a loading of pallets, containers or trucks based on delivery routes, branch planograms or other unloading requirements, all without the need for external sorting devices.
- Pick and Pack: With the next generation, packaging will be integrated directly into the picking process. Operators pick directly into fulfillment containers, which eliminates subsequent manual packaging. This function can be seamlessly combined with individual packaging solutions, for example to enable picking in customer -specific containers. This significantly lowers the costs of the last mile.
“In the development of the next generation of Skypod, our goal was to create a solution that sets the industrial standard for the next decade in terms of operational excellence and elegance,” explains Romain Moulin, CEO and co-founder of EXOTEC. “We are already experiencing how our customers transform their entire supply chain using this innovation – from the integration of Each and Full Case picking to cost optimization through precise sequencing. It is great to see what positive effects this technology has.”
Exotec developed the next generation of the Skypod system as an answer to the changing market requirements. Feedback of existing customers, who increasingly asked for warehouse robots, also served as the basis that cover a wider range of processes within the warehouses. In the past two years, EXOTEC has sold the next generation Skypod system in stealth mode. Over 20 projects with a total value of $ 400 million have already been successfully completed, including for customers such as Oxford Industries (Tommy Bahama, Lilly Pulitzer, Southern Tide, etc.), Grainger and E. Leclerc to strengthen their supply chain processes.
“We opted for EXOTEC due to the high warehouse density and operational flexibility. Thanks to the progress in robot technology, we were able to set up a larger area for the intermediate storage for prepared orders within the system,” explains Maxence Maurice, CEO of E. Leclerc Secin. “In the past, the delivery to the customer from reaching the drive-in to leaving the food between 10 and 15 minutes. Today it takes less than 5 minutes with the Exotec solution.”
About exotec
EXOTEC is a global company that produces warehouse robots for the largest brands in the world. The company combines the best of hardware and software to offer elegant warehouse robot systems that optimize operational efficiency, increase reliability and improve working conditions for warehouse workers. More than 50 industry -leading brands such as GAP Inc, Carrefour, Decathlon and Uniqlo trust Exototec to improve their operating processes at more than 100 locations worldwide. Find out more Exotec.com/de