Enhancing Warehouse Efficiency with Collaborative Robotics at Automate 2026

Transforming Warehouse Solutions with Collaborative Robotics at Automate 2026

Applied Manufacturing Technologies (AMT), a leader in automation engineering in North America, will showcase its innovative solutions at the upcoming Automate 2026 event. Taking place from June 22 to 25 at McCormick Place in Chicago, this event is North America’s largest robotics and automation exhibition.

In partnership with FANUC, AMT plans to demonstrate a live application focusing on mixed-load handling for warehouse and logistics environments. Scheduled at the FANUC booth (#1001), this demonstration will include collaborative palletizing and depalletizing using a FANUC CRX collaborative robot. Notably, this system is integrated with advanced AI-enabled vision technology and intelligent robot control software developed by Mujin.

The core of this demonstration reflects the increasing demand for flexible automation solutions that can adapt to various challenges in logistics, such as labor shortages, ergonomic issues, and the need for improved throughput amidst diverse product mixes. As manufacturers strive to enhance efficiency, the complexities of mixed-load palletizing and depalletizing are significant. These tasks require systems to adjust in real-time to varying box sizes, pallet patterns, and material flow requirements.

Collaboration in automation is crucial as it promotes flexibility and allows for operator interaction while maintaining high efficiency. Craig Salvalaggio, president of AMT, highlighted that many warehouse operations seek to enhance throughput without complicating existing workflows. The challenges inherent in mixed-load handling stem from variability in product configurations and pallet conditions that require adaptable solutions.

“Mixed-load handling is one of the tougher automation challenges due to the extensive variability present in warehouse operations,” Salvalaggio stated. “The demonstration at Automate 2026 will provide attendees with a valuable opportunity to witness a practical application of collaborative robotics and engage in discussions about broader automation strategies.”

This innovative application leverages Mujin's technology to provide robots with the necessary vision and control capabilities to adapt to changing workflows. Ed Mullen, Vice President of Channel Sales at Mujin, emphasized the technological advancements that allow integrators like AMT to implement flexible automation solutions tailored for both warehouse and logistics operations.

During the event, AMT engineers and automation specialists will be on site to discuss a variety of topics including collaborative robotics integration, planning for warehouse automation, and requirements for material handling systems. With over 25,000 automation systems engineered globally since its inception in 1989, AMT continues to uphold its reputation as a leader in advanced material handling and autonomous robotics.

In conclusion, the collaborative robotic systems showcased by AMT at Automate 2026 not only highlight the innovative technologies available today but also serve as a pivotal introduction to future developments in warehouse automation. As more businesses look to streamline their operations and embrace automation, events like this will shape the future of how industries approach logistics and material handling.

For more information on AMT and its offerings, visit their official website or follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, and other social platforms.