GLS Leans Heavily on Innovative Sorting Machines from the Next Generation
In a significant move towards automation, GLS Germany has integrated 70 autonomous sorting robots into their parcel service at the Bielefeld depot since fall 2023. These robots, locally known as "ants," have brought about substantial improvements in efficiency and quality, transforming the way parcels are handled.
## Efficiency Gains
The new system has enabled GLS to serve up to 144 destinations within the same sorting area, a marked increase from the previous 50. This expanded capacity allows for the handling of a larger volume of shipments[1]. The automated processes also reduce manual labour, with human workers focusing on placing packages onto self-driving vehicles. The rest of the sorting process, from intake to internal distribution to delivery exit, is then handled by the robots[1].
Flexibility is another key advantage. GLS can adjust the number of robots based on shipment structure and demand, ensuring reliability during peak times[1].
## Quality Improvements
The automated system has led to a reduction in errors, enhancing precision and ensuring that packages are correctly sorted and delivered to the right destinations[1]. Furthermore, by automating the sorting process, GLS has created a more ergonomic work environment, alleviating physical strain and repetitive tasks for workers[1].
## Future Plans
The success of this deployment is part of GLS Germany's strategy to decentralize and optimize sorting processes. The company plans to extend the use of these robots to other locations, such as Dortmund and Neuenstein, and is working on automating the loading of AGVs[1].
GLS is also developing automated loading for the robots to further drive automation. These robots are designed to handle small packages weighing up to three kilograms and measuring up to 30x40x15 centimeters[1]. The system controls driving paths, loading cycles, and ensures that enough units are ready for deployment. A loading cycle for the robots takes just five minutes. The system can be easily scaled up by adding more robots, as long as the swarm doesn't get stuck[1].
Press contact for GLS Germany is Pelle Faust, Press Spokesperson, who can be reached at [email protected] or by phone at +49 6677 646 55 250.
[1] Source: GLS Germany press release, January 2024.
Data-and-cloud-computing technology played a crucial role in the efficient functioning of the autonomous sorting robots at GLS Germany's Bielefeld depot. The integration of these robots, known as "ants," transformed the parcel service by automating processes and significantly increasing the number of destinations served.
