Automation is a necessity

The Raben Group has been working for many years on the automation and robotization of processes and services. In automation, we focus on intelligent IT solutions, such as platforms that autonomously provide information for our customers, such as the estimated time of arrival (ETA) of a delivery. In the field of warehouse automation and robotics we implement devices for shipment tracking, utilize autonomous or semi-automatic forklifts, as well as collaborative robots with "cobotic" arms. Additionally, we incorporate sensors for the Internet of Things (IoT), VR driving simulators, and many other solutions that enhance the efficiency of warehouse and transport processes. The long-term goal is hyper-automation through the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning techniques, and the integration of information from other platforms and systems, such as IoT sensors, industrial CCTV cameras, or GPS systems.

The digital simulation of warehouse processes helps us efficiently plan new warehouses or infrastructure expansions. We can review various workflows and models to identify where changes or improvements can be made. This allows us to virtually uncover bottlenecks and optimize positions and equipment – even before the first cent is invested and the first sod is turned.

We have also already implemented "digital twins," which are digital models that fully replicate the real warehouse system and interact with it in real-time. Digital twins help to simulate various logistics scenarios, layouts, and process schematics virtually by showing how the real system reacts to changes.

The days of poorly illuminated warehouses and logistics areas are definitely over. While lighting used to be primarily selected based on functional and normative criteria, factors such as light quality, human well-being, and health are now in the spotlight. The demands and expectations of employees regarding the attractiveness of their workplaces have increased enormously.

Well-designed lighting not only contributes to the well-being of employees but can also enhance efficiency at work. By reducing eye strain and creating a pleasant working environment, employees can work more attentively and productively, ultimately benefiting company performance.

Definitely, and in multiple ways. We chose 8 km of E-Line Next LED and the LiveLink light management system, particularly due to their high cost-effectiveness, light quality, and sustainability. Sensor technology for presence detection has also been integrated into the network for minimal energy consumption. However, light quality cannot be quantified in monetary terms. The luminaires in Ruda Slaska provide excellent visibility conditions throughout all hall areas with customized light distributions – from the floor up to a height of over 12 meters. This increases safety, visual comfort, and well-being alike.

The future belongs to ubiquitous artificial intelligence. Thanks to machine learning, robots will be able to evolve, make decisions autonomously, and carry out assigned tasks independently. Artificial intelligence will help optimize processes, reduce costs, and improve sustainability and efficiency. In the future, humans will probably only be the initiators and no longer the executors of the process in the supply chain. However, the role of the logistician will not disappear.

They will continue to support customers in realizing their business goals and plans. The only difference is that in the future, they may have access to a variety of digital solutions to optimize the delivery process to the end consumer. This means I don't believe robots are a substitute for dedicated employees. Automation, robotics, or AI rather help them keep pace with the changing world.