Amazon.Com Inc (NASDAQ: AMZN) is integrating advanced artificial intelligence and robotics technologies in its warehouse operations to enhance inventory identification efficiency and significantly reduce delivery times.
The overhaul involves the introduction of AI-powered sortation machines and robotic arms, transforming the dynamics of product movement within Amazon's fulfillment centers.
This innovation will help to augment the productivity and safety of human workers, the Wall Street Journal reports.
The newly introduced robotic system, called Sequoia, is engineered for enhanced speed and safety in a collaborative environment where humans and machines work in unison, minimizing workplace injuries and boosting operational efficiency.
Sequoia promises to expedite the listing of items on Amazon's website and improve the accuracy of delivery estimates.
According to David Guerin, the Director of Robotic Storage Technology at Amazon, the system can reduce order fulfillment time by up to 25% and accelerate inventory identification and storage by 75%.
The incorporation of Sequoia is a significant stride towards aligning with the company's shift to a regionally focused operational model to store products closer to customers.
The new robotic structure involves transporting products in tote containers to AI-equipped sortation machines. This system optimizes the picking process, with items delivered at waist level to reduce injuries and enhance efficiency.
Despite the rapid integration of robotics, Amazon emphasizes its commitment to worker safety and job preservation.
Previously, Amazon launched AI across its largest warehouses to screen items for damage before shipping orders to customers.
The company had courted regulator intervention over worker safety at its warehouses in its bid for faster delivery.
Price Action: AMZN shares traded lower by 0.55% at $130.75 premarket on the last check Wednesday.