Software boosts warehouse efficiency

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Apr 15, 2008

Kiva Systems uses SolidWorks software to design warehouse robots as well as arrange computers, scanners and laser pointers in worker "picking stations" configured specially for each client.

Kiva Systems is using SolidWorks 3D CAD software to change the way warehouses operate, with a system of autonomous orange robots that speed around distribution centres picking goods for shipping.

The company uses SolidWorks software to design the robots as well as arrange computers, scanners and laser pointers in worker "picking stations" configured specially for each client.

The Kiva Mobile Fulfillment System's new approach to order fulfillment improves productivity, speed, accuracy and flexibility for customers like Staples, Walgreen and the online shoe store Zappos.com.

Workers stand in one place while the products come to them on the orange robotic drive units.

Pallets, cases and orders are stored on inventory pods that are picked up and moved by the fleet.

As a result, the product can go to any operator.

"Our design challenges are obtaining high performance from our products at a reasonable cost", said Brett Anderson, Senior Mechanical Engineer.

"SolidWorks is the right software for the job".

"It simplifies custom configurations of any part or assembly, not to mention initial part design and many of our vendors use SolidWorks themselves".

"SolidWorks' CosmosWorks design validation software helps us optimise designs for strength and material economy on many of these designs, including the robotic drive unit".

"SolidWorks' PDMWorks data management software helps us manage revisions and its eDrawings collaboration software helps us streamline communication of ideas with engineering colleagues, marketers and clients".

"SolidWorks software has the right level of power, ease of use, flexibility and value, add-ins and support".

SolidWorks software was instrumental in helping Anderson's team develop a lift mechanism for the robotic drive unit that has meant a long-term intellectual property advantage for the company.

Based on a helical ball bearing, the Kiva robot rises and falls as it spins, stopping itself at the right height for grabbing shelf units it will carry to a picking station, where workers collect and box goods for shipping.