LogiMAT 2019: Swisslog points the way to robot and data-based automation 

The software-driven integration of advanced warehouse technologies is rapidly advancing at Swisslog Logistics Automation. At LogiMAT 2019 in Stuttgart/Germany, the leading warehouse automation and software provider and member of the KUKA Group will present innovations aimed at embedding efficiency, intelligence and competitive advantages into warehouse logistics operations. Powerful, integrated warehouse software, innovative robotics solutions, and machine learning will make Swisslog stand out at this year’s LogiMAT.

Software controls dynamic interactions

Trade fair visitors can see the solutions in action at the Swisslog booth (Hall 1, Booth B51). The networked, flexible and expandable” plug-and-play” solutions from Swisslog are guided by the principle, "Future-ready automation: Flexible, robotic, data-driven". The main exhibit will feature the dynamic interaction of innovative robotic components with Swisslog’s intelligent and modular SynQ software platform at its core. SynQ orchestrates the interaction of the individual robotics and warehouse technologies and provides for effective monitoring of ongoing processes. For the user, this means greater transparency over material flow processes and the ability to continually optimize, which boosts workflow efficiency.

Unique picking technology

Another highlight of the exhibit will be the next generation of the ItemPiQ robot order picking system. With this solution, Swisslog has developed a unique system that supports dramatically faster work processes with improved precision. ItemPiQ is highly versatile for easy adaptation to the customer's changing product palette. Aided by artificial intelligence, the system "learns" the optimal picking method for each new item.

Standard interface to AutoStore with Swisslog as leading provider

ItemPiQ can also be linked to the compact AutoStore warehouse storage and picking system via the standard ItemPiQBox interface. As the world's leading integrator of AutoStore with over 130 successful installations, Swisslog provides both its current and new customers rapid and easy entrance into the world of fully automated single-item picking.

A look at the future of smart cities

"Above all, our solutions are flexible and forward-looking, and they acknowledge the dynamic environment in which our customers operate. So we afford them crucial advantages in efficiency. We look forward to discussing those advantages with trade fair visitors personally. But we are also thinking further ahead, because digitalization reaches far beyond the warehouse. That's where the QTainer pop-up warehouse concept comes in," explains Dr. Christian Baur, CEO of Swisslog Logistics Automation.

With the QTainer concept making its debut at LogiMAT 2019, Swisslog is contributing to shaping the future of logistical supply to metropolitan areas. It is based on the observation that Industry 4.0 will prompt manufacturers to transition to demand-based production and deliver directly to the destination. Furthermore, the growing volumes in e-commerce require new concepts for city logistics to meet the growing concentrations of population in large cities. Both trends have an enormous impact on logistics processes. With the QTainer, Swisslog will present at LogiMAT a concept for a flexible, mobile microdepot – a community warehouse with automated storage systems that enables efficient and reliable distribution in the smart city of tomorrow. Swisslog hopes its smart city concepts will encourage discussion and invites all those interested to participate


Specialist presentations and panel discussion with Swisslog Logistics Automation (In German only)

Tuesday 19 February, 12:15 – 12:45 / Forum B, Hall 3
Digital shadow: How virtual & augmented reality can support the life cycle of a warehouse
Dr. Martin Thomaier, Head of Technology & Competence Center

Tuesday 19 February, 13:00 – 14:15 / Forum B, Hall 3
Automatically better? – The opportunities and limits of automation
Dr. Christian Baur, CEO

Wednesday 20 February, 16:00 – 16:30 / Forum B, Hall 3
Robot revolution – How reliable is a robot in single-item picking?
Jan Louwen, Strategy Manager