Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Zone Separation Innovations Could Enhance Cold Chain Efficiency in the UK
The UK, holding the largest cold storage market in Europe, faces significant challenges as cold-chain energy costs surged by 46% in 2023. The Cold Chain Federation highlights that the temperature-controlled sector contributes £14 billion to the economy, making energy management a critical operational factor for logistics operators. A major energy drain in distribution centers arises from the movement of goods between temperature zones, with air infiltration accounting for over half of the refrigeration load in high-traffic facilities. Implementing physical zone separation, such as temperature-separating curtain walls and PVC strip curtains, can significantly reduce energy loss by minimizing uncontrolled air exchange. As the cold chain sector moves towards energy efficiency, particularly in light of the UK's 2050 Net Zero target, the adaptability of curtain systems offers a practical solution. These systems allow for flexible reconfiguration of temperature zones without extensive construction, aligning with the industry's evolving needs while promoting energy savings without major facility overhauls. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Cold Chain Logistics Storage & Racking Transport and Distribution Warehouse Property Warehousing cold chain
How Cold Chain Operators Are Turning Energy Flexibility Into a Competitive Advantage
Cold storage facilities, known for their high energy consumption, face increasing challenges as the cost of electricity becomes more dependent on consumption timing rather than just the volume used. This shift in energy pricing creates a difficult situation for operators who have traditionally viewed electricity costs as fixed. As refrigeration systems must run continuously to maintain product integrity, the significant energy load required raises concerns about operational expenses and sustainability. The industry is now compelled to adapt to these changing dynamics, prompting a reevaluation of energy management strategies to mitigate costs and enhance efficiency.
Business Logistics automation news cold chain cold chain logistics cold storage
ニチレイロジR&Dセンターで冷凍倉庫対応AMR実証実験開始 ピーエムティー
PMT Corporation has conducted a demonstration experiment for an autonomous mobile robot (AMR) designed for frozen environments, aiming to enhance automation in cold storage facilities. The trial took place at the Nichirei Logistics Group's R&D Center. This initiative is part of PMT's efforts to innovate and improve operational efficiency in the logistics sector, particularly in managing temperature-sensitive goods. The use of AMRs is expected to streamline processes and reduce labor costs in the increasingly demanding cold storage industry.
Robot Arms for Food and Beverage Packaging: Three Functional Options
In the food and beverage sector, the unique challenges of packaging automation demand specialized solutions, particularly in hygiene, speed, and gentle handling. JAKA, a provider of industrial robotic arms, emphasizes the importance of selecting the right technology to meet these specific needs. Their robotic arms are designed for precision in handling delicate items such as baked goods and chocolates, achieving accuracy within 0.2mm to minimize product waste and maintain production efficiency. Additionally, JAKA robots are built to withstand demanding environments, featuring an IP54 rating for waterproof and dustproof performance. This durability allows them to operate reliably in cold storage and humid conditions, while their compact design enables installation in tight spaces on busy packaging floors. Moreover, JAKA robotic arms excel in integration, functioning as intelligent nodes within packaging lines. They can communicate with vision systems and conveyors, allowing for real-time adjustments based on data received from cameras. This capability enhances overall equipment effectiveness by ensuring precise placement of products into moving cartons. By aligning their robotic technology with the specific challenges of food and beverage packaging, JAKA aims to enhance hygiene, consistency, and throughput in this fast-paced and regulated industry.
Automation Drives Cold Store Efficiency
Clavo Food Factory has enhanced its operational efficiency by increasing storage capacity and reducing operating times through the implementation of an automated logistics solution from Mecalux. This upgrade took place at the company's production facility in Tordesillas, Spain. Specializing in ready-to-eat chilled and frozen foods, Clavo Food Factory produces 14,000 tonnes annually, catering to over 42,000 restaurants globally. The automation initiative aims to streamline processes and improve overall productivity, reflecting the company's commitment to innovation in the food production industry.
AMR and AGV Automation Systems and Shuttles Cold Chain Logistics Magazine Features Materials Handling Storage & Racking
HelloFresh expands chilled warehouse capacity fivefold with Locus Robotics automation
Locus Robotics, a warehouse automation company, has announced that a cold-storage hardware modification developed for HelloFresh has enabled the meal kit company to expand chilled fulfillment capacity from 100 SKUs to 500 SKUs – a fivefold increase that supports greater meal variety and new revenue opportunities across the HelloFresh brand portfolio. Factor, a HelloFresh brand, […]
News Warehouse robots amrs autonomous mobile robots chilled fulfillment cold chain logistics
HelloFresh Expand Temperature-Controlled SKU Capacity
Locus Robotics has unveiled a cold-storage hardware modification that significantly enhances HelloFresh's chilled fulfillment capabilities. This upgrade allows the leading meal kit company to increase its temperature-controlled stock-keeping units (SKUs) from 100 to 500, marking a fivefold expansion. The enhancement is expected to provide greater meal variety and open new revenue streams across HelloFresh's diverse brand portfolio, including its Factor brand. The deployment of 13 Locus robots was integral to this expansion, showcasing the innovative collaboration between the two companies.
AMR and AGV Automation Systems and Shuttles Cold Chain Logistics eFulfilment Materials Handling Robotic Picking
China Achieves Mass Production Breakthrough with 360TB Glass Hard Drives
Researchers at Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) have made a significant advancement in data storage technology by achieving small-scale mass production of glass-based hard drives. This breakthrough, announced recently, could revolutionize the way enterprise cold data is stored. Each glass disc boasts an impressive capacity of 360 terabytes, utilizing a unique laser "carving" technique that engraves data into the internal structure of the glass. This innovative approach not only enhances storage capacity but also offers a durable and efficient solution for managing vast amounts of data. The development marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of data storage, potentially addressing the growing demand for high-capacity storage solutions in various industries.
Technology
Comau and Reis Robotics sign a cooperation agreement to pursue advanced automation projects across multiple industries
Comau has announced the renewal of its collaboration with Intecells, focusing on the optimization of cold plasma technology in industrial cell manufacturing processes. This partnership aims to enhance efficiency and performance in the production of energy storage solutions. The renewed agreement comes as the demand for advanced manufacturing techniques continues to grow, driven by the increasing need for sustainable energy solutions. By leveraging cold plasma technology, Comau and Intecells intend to improve the quality and reliability of cell production, ultimately contributing to the advancement of the energy sector. The collaboration is set to take place over the coming months, with both companies committed to innovative research and development in this field.
Automha and Comau highlight end-to-end advanced logistics solutions at the german exhibition Logimat 2026
Comau has announced the renewal of its collaboration with Intecells, aiming to enhance the application of cold plasma technology in industrial cell manufacturing processes. This partnership, which focuses on optimizing production efficiency and quality, reflects a growing trend in the industry to integrate advanced technologies for improved performance. The renewed collaboration is expected to leverage Intecells' expertise in cold plasma applications, which can significantly impact the manufacturing of batteries and other energy storage solutions. By combining resources and knowledge, both companies seek to drive innovation and maintain competitiveness in the rapidly evolving market. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to adopt cutting-edge technologies that can streamline operations and reduce costs in the manufacturing sector.
Comau’s intelligent in.Grid robot monitoring platform accelerates digital transformation at Iveco
Comau has announced the renewal of its collaboration with Intecells to enhance the application of cold plasma technology in industrial cell manufacturing processes. This partnership aims to improve efficiency and performance in the production of cells, which are crucial components in various industries, particularly in energy storage and electric vehicles. The renewed agreement reflects both companies' commitment to innovation and sustainability in manufacturing. By leveraging cold plasma technology, they seek to optimize production methods, reduce waste, and increase the overall quality of the cells produced. This collaboration is expected to play a significant role in advancing the capabilities of industrial manufacturing, aligning with the growing demand for more efficient and environmentally friendly production techniques.
Robotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
