As material handling operations evolve, it’s worth considering how conveyors continue to play a critical role in that advancement. Long seen as a mainstay of operations, conveyors are representative of a shift towards an automated footprint, and the most advanced versions are introducing new possibilities for how companies are responding to the modern commercial ecosystem.
What’s really driving the evolution of conveyors, and nearly all material handling technology, is, of course, consumer demand. Customers want products faster, which inevitably puts more of a strain on companies to assemble, ship and deliver products to a recipient’s front door. What used to take 2-3 weeks is expected in 2-3 days or even hours. This is forcing companies to evaluate their processes and identify opportunities to be more efficient while maintaining a profitable bottom line.
Enter the shift to automation.
Modern technology has advanced to the point where some level of automation with logistics is commonplace. However, contrary to some modern beliefs, automation doesn’t eliminate the need for laborers; it allows them to focus on tasks that are better suited for humans, like critical thinking. We’re continuing to see a healthy integration of technology operating alongside human workers in warehouses and distribution centers, and the most forward thinking of companies are utilizing technology with laborers in mind. Said simply, the litmus test for solutions can be seen through a human resources lens: how is technology improving the employee experience while also helping meet throughput goals? Are those solutions helping retain laborers, which in some industries are in short supply? Conveyance is a unique microcosm of this trend in its ability to help employees and companies meet their respective goals.
Historically, conveyors have been a fixed solution – they start at point A and end at point B. While that model will likely be an important part of material handling for the foreseeable future, there’s an increased interest in modern, high-speed smart conveyance and the possibilities it entails. At its core, smart conveyance gives operators more control of where and how the conveyor moves. Magnetic propulsion is ushering in a new era, as the system has more freedom compared to its more static predecessors. These floating platforms - in some cases resembling flying saucers - are redefining how items are moved within a warehouse. Traditionally, engineers would select a conveyor based on how it would fit into a designated space and design within those physical parameters. Now, the possibility exists to flip that thinking on its head, literally and figuratively. Engineers can create distribution centers based on how the conveyor can move in a less static, more free-flowing pattern. This includes vertical, diagonal and even ceiling-suspended workflows that empower engineers to redesign a floor in brownfield environments and start from a very exciting square one in greenfield new builds. The trickle-down effect from this can be extensive. Smart conveyors can potentially eliminate the need for extraneous solutions, which can reduce cost and energy usage, and free up space for workers to operate and help with any safety concerns.
Naturally, when considering any type of automation and/or new technology, there will be some hesitancy among operators. Despite the promise of improved efficiency, some are reticent to move past proven solutions and adopt something new. Also, advanced technology, including the latest smart conveyors, is almost always more expensive when compared side-by-side with older iterations. But the return on investment for newer tech can be extensive, which is why companies must have all key stakeholders in the room when considering a new integration, especially with such critical technological components like conveyors. It’s not enough just to look at a price tag and say it’s not worth the investment. Companies need to consider how modern solutions allow them to meet not only their current needs, but also future demands. Having flexible and smart solutions that can be adjusted to volume, floor space and inventory will continue to prove their worth in material handling as consumer needs inevitably change. Also, the ability for smart technology to integrate into control systems and provide real-time data is priceless, as it allows for effective monitoring, customization and maintenance, all signature elements of a successful material handling environment.
It can be daunting to consider what the future of warehouse operations looks like, especially with technology advancing at such a rapid pace. Conveyors, though, are a valuable microcosm of evolution because of their extensive usage and application possibilities. How they’re advancing to meet supply chain needs while factoring in the larger shift to automation should be a topic most operators consider soon, if they haven’t already. By understanding the true cost of ownership and impact on operations, companies can have a greater grasp and control of how products are moving in their warehouses, while ultimately being flexible to shift and adjust those processes as the market dictates.
