In about three years most of the warehouses will be using augmented reality – such a claim emerged during a debate regarding technology in logistics during the annual selection of the Dutch logistics manager of the year. Can augmented reality really revolutionise how warehouses operate?
Augmented reality (AR) is a system which connects the real world with a computer-generated image, typically using a camera image on which real-time generated 3D graphics are superimposed. AR is still a relatively young technology which is dynamically growing and is used in more and more areas such as product design, service, etc.
How can AR optimise warehouse processes?
Right now warehouses are struggling with too much data which cannot be given to the warehouse staff. The use of AR glasses to navigate the staff in warehouses, to determine the exact position of an employee and the position of the goods you are looking for, setting the optimum route and scanning parcels, as well as giving immediate shipment information when it is handled would make it possible for warehouse staff to work faster and more efficiently without their hands being occupied.
Fear of change
Although the Dutch logistics executives present at the meeting thought that the augmented reality will quickly become essential in logistics processes, most of the people taking part in the debate do not expect that in the coming years order preparation will use augmented reality. This technology certainly has a future in logistics. A question remains, however, whether companies will be willing to implement it in such a short time. It will bring high costs and new problems. It is not only about buying new equipment but also preparing (that is, automating) the warehouse in such a way that the use of new technology is possible and meaningful.
The biggest challenge, however, is the need to define the man – machine logistics processes from the scratch. About 20% people working in warehouses has a lower secondary education which can make it difficult to understand and cooperate with such advanced technology. Despite this, senior managers strongly believe in digitisation and its capabilities. Although it all sounds like science-fiction, the augmented reality seems to be a response to the challenges of warehouse processes.
Here’s how the augmented reality works:
Photo: WaveOptics
