Which scalable and user-friendly machines benefit the medium-sized e-commerce entrepreneur? KU Leuven's research group L-iTL is working on that question. In recent years, this has already resulted in several concrete prototypes, from electric cargo bikes to a 'hybrid carousel system' for the warehouse. An interview with Marc Juwet, professor of mechanical engineering and founder of L-iTL (Lab for Innovative Logistics Technology), ahead of his lecture at Logistica.
A lot of research is being done in the logistics sector the software field: from route planning to warehouse optimisation. But relatively little is happening in the field of machinery, outside of companies working on the development of a specific product such as drones. "There is a lack of overarching research, whereas in a growing sector like e-commerce, there is a lot of demand for new, affordable equipment whose added value is clear," says Juwet about the idea behind the lab for innovative logistics technology.
Why the focus on the medium-sized e-commerce entrepreneur? "Large companies are already being served in abundance. They have entire distribution centres set up by other big players. For companies that don't have big budgets and still want to grow, I think there is still a lot to gain."
Robust AGV
The research group deals with machinery for four different facets in e-fulfilment: automated warehouses, internal transport, packaging and delivery to end customers (the last mile).
For instance, it is working on making AGVs more robust so that they do not tilt when the floor is uneven. And on a packaging system that - unlike current providers - places the padding flakes around the product. "When a warehouse worker manually puts these protective flakes in the box, they are often not placed at the bottom. This causes damage to the product."
Hybrid warehouse solution
L-iTL is also developing a hybrid warehouse solution in which vertical transport is automated and horizontal transport is provided by humans. "Our idea is: vertical transport of people is expensive. Therefore, we automate that part. The solution we are building works with carousels, which transport totes of products vertically. The picker picks them and the AGV or warehouse worker brings them to the packing station." One of the big advantages of this solution, according to Juwet, is in its size. "This is a very compact, high-intensity solution. For companies that are growing, lack of space is often a problem. This hybrid solution can be built from 5 to 30 metres high and fully loaded with products."
Neutral advice
Products and systems that are finished are patented and marketed by L-iTL. They are then immediately available to entrepreneurs who want to automate. Nevertheless, Juwet advises them not to take an overnight decision when choosing new equipment. "That is one of the big problems for companies that are not familiar with mechanical engineering but buy machines. They visit different vendors to get advice. These are naturally going to offer their own systems. As a non-specialist, it is difficult to get lost in that. Therefore, ask for neutral advice."
Logistica seminar
During the Logistica trade fair, Marc Juwet, in collaboration with his colleagues ing. W. Nica and P. Vanhauwermeiren will give the seminar 'Logistic solutions for medium-sized e-commerce entrepreneurs'. Visitors to this seminar will gain insight into machines that will soon be on the market and practical tools to support their growing business.
Register for this seminar here.
Logistica will take place from 5 to 7 November at the Jaarbeurs in Utrecht. More information about the programme or register directly for the exhibition? Go to the Logistica website.
