#Japan #Sapporo #Rapyuta Robotics #PA-AMR #Kokubu Group

Introduction

Rapyuta Robotics, a pioneering company in logistics robotics solutions based in Koto, Tokyo, has announced the launch of its Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) known as the Rapyuta PA-AMR at the Kokubu Group's Sapporo Logistics Center. This introduction aims to facilitate the smooth operation of the center by enhancing digital transformation (DX) and training personnel in digital skills.

Background of the Introduction

The Sapporo Logistics Center faced significant challenges due to severe labor shortages, which made constructing a facility that could operate efficiently with fewer personnel a critical priority. The reliance on temporary and spot workers was increasing, yet traditional methods involving handheld terminals and lists were largely dependent on experienced workers. Consequently, it took time for newcomers to become effective team members. Moreover, with a declining labor force and an aging workforce, reducing the burden of physically demanding tasks emerged as an unavoidable issue.

Simultaneously, the complexity of logistics operations necessitated a shift away from job-specific tasks. There was growing demand for standardization and streamlining of processes to ensure consistent quality, regardless of the worker’s experience level. Additionally, addressing the urgent need for training tomorrow's logistics workforce in DX skills became essential.

In response to these challenges, the Sapporo Logistics Center opted for the Rapyuta PA-AMR, a collaborative picking assistant robot, as a dual solution for enhancing both efficiency and standardization in warehouse operations.

Key Points of the PA-AMR Implementation at Kokubu Group

1. Ease of Integration with Existing Warehouses
Implementing automated systems usually requires substantial investment and modifications in layout, posing high barriers for existing warehouses. AMRs can be integrated with minimal adjustments like aisle width modifications, making them easier to deploy.

2. Improvement in Labor Efficiency for Segmented Shipping Tasks
In food wholesale logistics, much effort goes into splitting cases into individual units for shipping. The PA-AMR exhibits high compatibility with these tasks and is expected to bring substantial efficiency improvements.

3. Smooth Project Launch
Leveraging the operational success of the Kokubu Group's earlier implementation in the Nagano region, the process at Kokubu Hokkaido benefited from a concrete operational vision, leading to a smooth project initiation and successful completion.

Moving forward, Rapyuta Robotics and Kokubu Group plan to utilize the PA-AMR to tackle various logistics challenges and enhance overall productivity further.

Insights from Kokubu Group's Logistics Management

In light of the challenges presented by labor shortages and task-specific dependency, there is a clear need for constructing a logistics center capable of stable operations with fewer personnel. By adopting the Rapyuta PA-AMR, the center has achieved efficiency and standardization in picking tasks, creating an environment where anyone, regardless of experience or age, can perform consistently high-quality work. The established operational precedents within the Kokubu Group provided confidence in advancing this project.

About Kokubu Group

• - Location: 1-1-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
• - Representative: Kanbee Kokubu, Chairman and CEO
• - Business Activities: Wholesale of alcoholic beverages, food, and related consumer goods; distribution processing, delivery operations, trade, and real estate leasing.
• - Website: Kokubu Group

About Rapyuta Robotics

Founded by a team from ETH Zurich, Rapyuta Robotics focuses on making robotics accessible and practical for everyone. The company utilizes cutting-edge control and AI technologies to develop next-generation cloud robotics platforms and support the deployment and operation of robotic solutions. With a talented team hailing from over 30 countries, Rapyuta Robotics aims to provide its clients with the most effective solutions tailored to their needs.