Boosting Warehouse Efficiency: Wearable Robots for Ergonomic Support

[Fact Check]

Lotte Global Logistics has partnered with FRT Robotics to implement wearable robots in their distribution centers. The initiative focuses on reducing musculoskeletal strain during repetitive tasks like palletizing and loading by using exoskeleton suits.

[AIxLogis Insight]

After years on the warehouse floor, I know that no matter how much we automate, the final palletizing and loading steps always require human dexterity. Moving heavy cargo like bottled water or rice all day takes a toll on the crew's backs and shoulders. This move toward wearable robotics isn't just a tech trend; it is a practical solution to maintain consistent output by minimizing worker fatigue.

The fact that AI predicts movement to provide power assistance is a game-changer. Previously, workers had to exert 100% of their strength for every lift, but now the robot shares that load, allowing the crew to stay focused and energized throughout the shift. From a WMS perspective, reducing physical strain directly correlates to fewer picking errors and better loading precision, which ultimately boosts the entire facility's throughput.

[Action Plan]

1. Identify high-strain task zones, such as manual loading or palletizing, where physical fatigue currently impacts throughput.
2. Conduct pilot tests to ensure the wearable suits do not restrict movement or interfere with existing floor workflows.

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Original source: 네이버뉴스