Revolutionizing Logistics: RockyOne Robotics Implementation in Japan
Introduction to the RockyOne Robot
In a significant step towards automating logistics in Japan, Sanwa Supply (Shanghai), SG Systems, and XYZ Robotics have cooperated to introduce an advanced unloading robot, named "RockyOne," at the Sanwa Supply East Japan Logistics Center. This collaboration marks the beginning of a journey aimed at integrating robotics into Japan's logistics market by February 2025, promising enhanced efficiency and productivity.
Overview and Features of RockyOne
The RockyOne robot is an innovative Mobile Manipulation Robot (MMR), specifically designed for autonomously unloading various sizes of cartons from containers. The robot's advanced capabilities stem from its combination of an industrial robotic arm, a 3D camera module, and a vacuum suction hand, all mounted on an omnidirectional mobile platform. This cutting-edge design allows the RockyOne to efficiently unload cargo from the front to the back of shipping containers without the need for human intervention.
Key Specifications:
- - Dimensions: 1,400mm x 1,060mm
- - Weight: 1,200kg
- - Supported Container Sizes: 20ft/40ft/45ft (standard/HC)
- - Handling Capacity: 300-800 pieces per hour (PPH)
- - Maximum Weight: 30kg
- - Maximum Cargo Size: Length of each side between 150 to 800mm
One of the distinguishing features of RockyOne is its ability to respond to adverse conditions. In scenarios where the cargo is poorly stacked or an obstacle is present, the system alerts operators via a tablet interface, facilitating quick recovery and minimizing downtime.
The Necessity for Automation
The logistics environment involving container unloading presents numerous challenges. Often, items are stacked high, making them unreachable for workers, and extreme temperatures can make the job even more hazardous. Given these conditions, there has been a pressing demand for automation in logistics to enhance safety and efficiency.
SG Systems undertook a thorough analysis of the sizes and weights of products, as well as the stacking configurations within containers, to identify potential candidates for automation. The feasibility of automating specific containers was validated through simulations conducted by XYZ Robotics to ensure safe and efficient unloading processes. For containers deemed challenging for automation, Sanwa Supply (Shanghai) re-evaluated operational processes to improve load configurations.
Expected Outcomes and Future Plans
Initial tests conducted between October and November 2024 demonstrated a significant increase in the number of containers that could be processed, achieving an astounding performance rate. Workers were eliminated from the process, and heavy load handling operations reached an efficiency of 1.5 times that of manual labor at 250 PPH, while lighter loads resembled human productivity at 350 PPH through multi-picking strategies. As of April 2025, operational performance is projected to improve even further, with large items being handled at a rate of 320 PPH and medium items at 470 PPH, showcasing the robot's capabilities in real-world scenarios.
On February 25, 2025, the three companies—SG Systems, XYZ Robotics, and Sanwa Supply (Shanghai)—committed to further collaboration in introducing logistics robots to the Japanese market. SG Systems will leverage its extensive experience in logistics system integration to act as a distributor. Meanwhile, XYZ Robotics brings its proven track record of high-quality manufacturing and maintenance to the table. Sanwa Supply (Shanghai) will ensure procurement and inspection processes are aligned with the high standards required for successful implementation.
This partnership not only aims to improve the efficiency and safety of logistics operations but also seeks to establish a presence of robotics in various logistics environments across Japan. The combined strengths of the three companies will facilitate a remarkable transformation in the logistics sector, promoting greater automation and reduced manpower requirement.
Conclusion
The launch of the RockyOne robot signifies a shift towards automation in logistics, setting a precedent for the future of the industry in Japan. With collaborative efforts from multiple experts, the logistics landscape is on the brink of change, enhancing productivity and safety through innovative technologies.
Additional Reference: Images of RockyOne in Action
- - The RockyOne unloading cargo from a container (suction mode)
- - The RockyOne releasing cargo before unloading
Company Profiles:
- - Sanwa Supply (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
- CEO: Yuusuke Yamada
- Business Scope: Planning, manufacturing, and selling various computer supplies and handling PCs and peripherals
- URL: Sanwa Supply
- - SG Systems, Inc.
- CEO: Shinji Maruyama
- Business Scope: Planning, design, development, maintenance, and operations in information systems
- URL: SG Systems
- - XYZ Robotics, Inc.
- CEO: Yoshinobu So
- Business Scope: Development and sales of MMR (Mobile Manipulation Robot) technology
- URL: XYZ Robotics
Topics Consumer Products & Retail）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.