Amazon Robotics Sortable Fulfillment Center Tour

Introduction

• Amazon uses machine learning, automation, and employee efforts to quickly deliver packages.
• The fulfillment center (FC) is part of over 50 worldwide.
• Focus on customer obsession and employee safety.
• Use of thermal camera systems for employee temperature screening.

Inbound Process

1. Forecasting and Ordering
   • Powered by AWS, handling over 400 million products daily.
2. Receiving Area
   • Involves logistics coordination with AWS software.
   • Trailers arrive by appointment, inventory managed with Amazon Aurora.
3. Stowing Process
   • Use of Amazon robotic drive units and ASIN barcodes.
   • Inventory management with Amazon Neptune.
   • Randomized stowage method for efficiency.
   • Computer vision assists in automation and quality control.

Robotics and Automation

• Robots work in dedicated areas, making up 65% of the facility.
• Navigation via 2D floor barcodes, coordinated by robotic operating software.
• Over 1 million unique items handled in each FC.

Picking and Packing

1. Picking
   • Robots deliver inventory pods to associates.
   • Visual bin inspection system aids in item identification and placement.
   • Associates work with yellow totes for single and multiple item orders.
2. Packing
   • Machine learning selects box/envelope size and applies tape.
   • Use of protective materials, barcode application, and SLAM process.

Shipping Logistics

• Machine learning determines optimal shipping from multiple FCs.
• SLAM: Scan, Label, Apply, Manifest process for shipping labels.
• Carrier selection and quality control involve machine learning.

Quality Control and Final Stages

• Packages weighed and checked for discrepancies.
• Routed on conveyors for final shipment preparation.
• Equipment monitored by AWS IoT services and predictive maintenance.

Conclusion

• The tour showcased Amazon's use of advanced technology and teamwork in fulfillment operations.