LocusBots Track Real-Time Warehouse Operations

LocusBots Track Real-Time Warehouse Operations

April 3, 2021
Anita Lee-Post, Ph.D.

In response to a surge in e-commerce, Locus Robotics is developing better and more efficient robots to handle increased warehousing demand.

Locus Robotics’ robots are called “LocusBots”.  They are autonomous and mobile and can track real-time warehouse operations using iPhone or wearable technology.

New features for LocusBots to better handle item picking and handling in warehouses are in the research and development stage.

Video Spotlight: 

This post is based on the Forbes article, Meet The Newest Robotics Unicorn: Locus Robotics Raises $150 Million At A $1 Billion Valuation On Surging E-Commerce Sales, by Amy Feldman,  February 17, 2021, and the YouTube video in the Spotlight. Image source: Baloncici/iStock/Getty Images

Discussion Questions:

1. What impacts do robots have on warehouse operations?

Guidance: Robots are automating warehouse operations in general, and item picking and handling in particular. A robot can pick up more bulky/heavy items, and move them to desirable locations, faster than its human counterpart.  Warehouse operations will be more efficient and reliable and have less errors and injuries.

2.  In what ways is product design important to Continue reading →

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J.B. Hunt: Transforming Logistics Through Data Centralization

J.B. Hunt: Transforming Logistics Through Data Centralization

April 2, 2021
Anita Lee-Post, Ph.D.

J.B. Hunt Transport Services is partnering with Google to provide improved shipping and logistics experience for shippers, carriers, and service providers.

Under the partnership, J.B. Hunt will centralize data across its supply chain, including capacity use, pricing, and transportation delivery, using advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning tools from Google Cloud.

The partnership is expected to transform transportation services by digitally matching shipments with capacity, increasing efficiency and visibility.

Video Spotlight: 

This post is based on the Talk Business.net article, J.B. Hunt, Google partner to develop new supply chain technology, by Jeff Della Rosa,  February 18, 2021, and the YouTube video in the Spotlight. Image source: vitpho/123RF

Discussion Questions:

1. What is the operational significance of the partnership between J.B. Hunt and Google?

Guidance: By leveraging Google’s technological expertise in cloud computing, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, J.B. Hunt will be better able to integrate its supply chain, capacity use, pricing, shipping, logistics, and delivery systems.  The result is increased supply chain visibility, shipments and capacity alignment, operational efficiency, and workflow reliability for J.B. Hunt.

2. Continue reading →

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Maersk to Launch Carbon Neutral Cargo Ship in 2023

Maersk to Launch Carbon Neutral Cargo Ship in 2023

March 26, 2021
David Little, Ph.D.

Maersk is the largest container shipping company in the world.  The company plans to launch the first carbon neutral cargo ship in 2023.  The company has plans to be carbon neutral by 2050.

The issue is that this new vessel will operate on methanol produced from sustainable biomass or renewable sources.  Critics point out that biofuels are not a scalable fuel solution at this time.

Mass adoption of biofuels may not be the answer given this would lead to water scarcity and threaten food security.

Video Spotlight: 

This post is based on the CNN article, Maersk has found a way to clean up shipping but there’s a catch, by Hannah Ziady,  February 18, 2021, and the YouTube videos in the Spotlight. Image source: Chris Troch/Shutterstock

Discussion Questions:

1. How could biofuel sourcing be improved without putting further pressure on water resources?

Guidance: Students should perform an internet search for information Continue reading →

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