WesTrac jumped on the AI tidal wave by incorporating it into day-to-day operations at its Tomago parts distribution warehouse, in New South Wales, with the launch of the AutoStore™ system.
AutoStore uses unique robots with memory technology powered by AI to understand where specific parts are stored in the warehouse, before they go and retrieve the orders within 5 to 10 minutes.
Warehouse Operations Manager Natalia Trewin said the AutoStore system has made the distribution centre operate in a safe and efficient manner by using robots to pick up orders, keeping people out of harm’s way.
“WesTrac’s warehouse operates 24/7 to provide our customers with efficient service, and with the tight labour market, we needed a practical solution to fulfill our customers’ orders as quickly as possible,” Ms Trewin said.
“We decided to implement the AutoStore system, which is set up similar to a Rubik’s cube, with very densely packed plastic tubs sitting on top of each other in a large cube that robots dip down into to pull out needed parts.
“The system uses 24 robots, who are all uniquely identified with colours and names like Wall-E, Bumblebee and Pickeralla, that are capable of picking 500 product lines per hour.
“Not only does our warehouse operate more efficiently, but the design of AutoStore enabled WesTrac to gain an additional 1,000 square metres of space.”
Ms Trewin said over time, the AI-powered robotic system will adjust locations of the parts in the warehouse based on live usage data, so the most required parts are at optimal positions.
“Since these robots joined the WesTrac team, we have started looking at potential future growth thanks to their quick turnaround time, which includes increasing customer orders and boosting the scale of our operations.
“We are entering a new and exciting era as AI becomes more advanced, and for WesTrac, using AI to provide better support for our customers was a no-brainer.”
In the lead up to AI Appreciation Day, AutoStore demonstrates how one of the world’s largest Caterpillar dealers is using artificial intelligence to improve safety and efficiency at its operations.
To download footage, audio and other media of WesTrac’s AutoStore warehouse, click here. Three images are also included below.
Marissa Taddeo
marissa@hellospoke.com.au
0401 019 885
Emily Evans
emily@hellospoke.com.au
0401 337 959
As one of the largest authorised Cat equipment dealers in the world, WesTrac provides customers with a wide range of mining and construction equipment as well as comprehensive whole-of-life management solutions designed to make owning and operating equipment as easy, profitable and safe as possible. With more than 4,500 staff, WesTrac is focused on long-term customer relationships and a dedication to customer service, safety, quality and the environment.
To achieve this, we commit to building better together through collaboration and collective action. Helping customers achieve their own ESG objectives to reduce emissions through product advancements and technology solutions. This shared goal of a sustainable future for all is why we are focused on Responsibility, Advancement, Community, Inclusivity, Development and Solutions, as a means to deliver long-term positive success for the environment, customers, team members, stakeholders and the wider community.
Community development and support is an important part of the WesTrac philosophy, and we are proud to support local activities, events and charities in the regions we are based. As part of SGH Ltd, WesTrac also has strong alliances with other leading Australian businesses, including Seven West Media, Coates and SITECH.
